Audio shows highlight heritage of people of African Descent and challenges they face

The International Day for People of African Descent, commemorated on 31 August, is a day of celebration of the heritage and contributions of people of African descent.

But it is also “a day of recognition of the enslavement and trade of millions of Africans as one of the darkest chapters in our human history,” said Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. “[It is a day to acknowledge] the legacies of enslavement, colonialism and deep-rooted systemic racism that are still manifest today.”

To highlight this heritage and to learn more about why systemic racism against people of African descent is still deeply rooted in our societies and how it continues to manifest, UN Human Rights teamed up with radio stations and podcasters across the globe to launch the International Day for People of African Descent hits the radio airwaves.

The partnerships will provide listeners with engaging conversations about the history and current issues surrounding racism against people of African descent and their relentless and inspiring fights against racial discrimination.

The programmes take place in countries such as Honduras, through Radio Progreso; the United Kingdom’s BBC London, with former UN Fellow Priscellia Robinson; Senegal, through Vibe Radio; and Switzerland, with former UN Fellow Yvonne Apiyo Brändle-Amolo through LoRa 97.5FM. A complete list of podcasts and radio stations taking part in this global initiative is listed below.

The radio programmes and podcasts will bring the important voices of UN experts on the issue of racism and people of African descent to the airwaves. Many of the programmes will also highlight the contributions of people of African descent to our societies, including in the fields of culture and politics, from a more local or regional perspective.

The International Day for People of African Descent hits the radio airwaves, is part of Learn. Speak up. Act, a global call for concrete action on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. It is a two-year campaign aimed at improving knowledge of international mechanisms to fight racism and racial discrimination as well as at encouraging and promoting greater action.

“I encourage you all to get together and get involved!” said Bachelet. “Today and every day: Learn. Speak up. And Act to #FightRacism.”

Click here to listen, learn and #FightRacism!