International Day for People of African Descent
Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, France, Ghana, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Senegal, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay
About
International Day for People of African Descent, observed on August 31, celebrates the rich heritage, culture, achievements, and enduring contributions of people of African descent around the world. It is an opportunity to recognize the many ways African-descended communities have shaped art, science, history, music, literature, and society.
The observance also encourages greater awareness of the discrimination and inequalities that people of African descent continue to face. August 31 invites communities to honor shared history, uplift diverse voices, celebrate cultural identity, and support ongoing efforts to advance dignity, equality, and human rights for all.
History
The **International Day for People of African Descent** is observed annually on **August 31**. The United Nations General Assembly established the observance through Resolution 75/170, adopted in December 2020, and the first official observance took place on August 31, 2021. Its creation reflected growing international recognition of the history, achievements, and continuing challenges of people of African descent around the world.
The day developed within a broader United Nations effort to address racism and discrimination. A major foundation was the 2001 World Conference against Racism in Durban, South Africa, which highlighted the enduring effects of slavery, the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and racial discrimination. The UN’s International Decade for People of African Descent, covering 2015–2024, further encouraged governments and institutions to promote recognition, justice, and development for African-descended communities. The August 31 observance gave these efforts a recurring global focus.
Over time, the day has evolved beyond a formal recognition of historical injustice. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the cultural, intellectual, artistic, political, and economic contributions of people of African descent, including communities throughout Africa, the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe, and elsewhere. It also draws attention to issues such as unequal access to education and employment, racial profiling, underrepresentation, and the preservation of African and diasporic heritage.
Culturally, the International Day for People of African Descent serves as both a commemorative occasion and a call to action. Events held on August 31 may include public discussions, educational programs, exhibitions, performances, and campaigns against racism. By connecting the experiences of African-descended peoples across national borders, the observance emphasizes shared history and resilience while encouraging policies that advance equality, dignity, and human rights.