The tenth anniversary of Zero Discrimination Day is on March 1 of this year. It was established by UNAIDS a decade ago with the intention of promoting equity and equality for all, irrespective of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, or HIV status.
Even so, advancement is in jeopardy. There is an increasing prevalence of assaults targeting the rights of women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other marginalized communities. And when laws, policies, practices, or societal standards institutionalize stigma, discrimination, or punishment against individuals on the basis of their gender, sexual orientation, migration, employment as a sex worker, or drug use, these communities are pushed further from essential social and health services, resulting in a decline in public health.
UNAIDS urges support for women’s and LGBTQ+ rights movements, as well as movements for racial justice, economic justice, climate justice, and peace. As societies and communities worldwide advocate for their rights, the United Nations not only supports them but stands by their side.
It is the shared responsibility of all individuals to safeguard the liberties of others. All individuals have the capacity to contribute to the eradication of discrimination.
Throughout the entire month of March, events, activities, and messages will serve as a constant reminder and call to action to safeguard the rights of all individuals and ensure their health is protected.