Past Events

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights is pleased to announce that the first session of the Permanent Forum of People of African Descent will take place from 5 to 8 December 2022 in Palais des Nations of the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland.

This year’s session will focus on strategies to combat systemic racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

All stakeholders advancing the rights of people of African descent are welcome to participate in the Permanent Forum session. Member States, United Nations specialized agencies and bodies, national human rights institutions, equality bodies, civil society representatives and organizations of people of African descent are especially invited to attend and contribute to the discussions.

During its twenty-ninth session, held in Geneva from 15 to 19 November 2021, the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent held private discussions. At its thirtieth session, held in New York from 23 to 27 May 2022, the group focused on the theme “Children of African descent”, and the report will be presented to the Human Rights Council in Geneva on 3 October and to the UN General Assembly on 31 October in New York City.

This thematic session will discuss the human rights situation of children of African descent globally. The session will involve extensive discussions on racial discrimination and inequality faced by children of African descent in all areas of life including administration of justice, law enforcement, education, health, family life, development, as well as redress for legacies of enslavement, colonialism, and racial segregation.

There's only three years left in the International Decade for People of African Descent. Voices of the Decade features 11 stories of women of African descent, providing a snapshot of the important and inspiring work achieved to promote the human rights of people of African descent throughout the world. Voices of the Decade is a call, and a source of inspiration, for everyone to work together towards recognition, justice and development for people of African descent.
 

The International Day for People of African Descent (31 August) is celebrated for the first time this year, to promote the extraordinary contributions of the African diaspora around the world and to eliminate all forms of discrimination against people of African descent.

An exciting series of activities is being organized in Costa Rica on 31 Ausut to 4 September in San Jose and in Cahuita on the Caribbean Coast.

The official ceremony which will take place in hybrid format today in San Jose includes participation by the Deputy Secretary-General, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Director General of UNFPA and the Vice-President of Costa Rica. Activities over the following days include a high-level forum, an economic and business forum for Afro-descendants, testimonies on racial justice and equality, a civil society dialogue to advance the rights of Afro-descendants and a cultural ceremony to inaugurate the International Day. The closing Drum Dialogue ceremony with the Afro-Costa Rican community of Cahuita will feature performances by local and international artists, the release of a song and the launch of a mini-documentary.

Events have a mixed in-person/online format with the participation of Governments, international organizations, civil society organizations, academia, media and leaders of African descent from around the world. UNFPA and OHCHR, with the support of UN Department of Global Communication, are in the lead.
 

University of Johannesburg, South Africa

The panel discussion aims to reflect on the contemporary challenges facing young people nationally and globally. The meeting will focus on how young people can be agents of change against the backdrop of the commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Youth Uprising against the racist apartheid system. It also seeks to reignite the minds of young people with the spirit of the “Mandela-Robinson” pledge, Tolerance and Diversity: A Vision for the 21st Century, which was adopted by delegates at the Durban Conference to demonstrate their steadfast commitment to combat the scourge of racism, racial discrimination and their contemporary manifestations.
 

Join us in a virtual event to mark the Midterm Review of the International Decade for People of African Descent. This side event is co-organized by the Office of the High Commission of Human Rights (OHCHR), United Nations Department of Global Communications (UNDGC), and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) under the theme: "See Us, Hear Us, Count Us In." The programme will include opening statements from UN officials, musical and cultural performances, a short documentary, informative one on one interviews with relevant experts, and the launch of an inspiring communications campaign featuring a diverse group of young people of African descent from around the world. It will be broadcast via UNFPA Youtube channel and UNWebTV in ENGLISH, FRENCH, SPANISH and PORTUGUESE. 

An online panel discussion of the fourth episode, “New World Cultures” of the six-part series, "Enslaved". The series examines the history of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, and is presented by Samuel L. Jackson, Afua Hirsch and Simcha Jacobovici. We are pleased to offer a LIMITED SCREENING of Episode 4. Please use THIS LINK to WATCH the EPISODE free-of-charge at your own pace: https://bit.ly/3t39NrA
Watch discussion on UN WebTV

WATCH discussion on UN WebTV

Register here RSVP 

Register here RSVP

The session will be broadcast live and archived (webtv.un.org). This thematic session will discuss human rights solutions to address environmental injustice, racial disparities, unequal protection and the unique impact of the climate crisis and environmental racism on people of African descent. It will involve a comprehensive look at various aspects of environmental racism and the climate crisis locally and globally.

For more information, please visit OHCHR 28th of the Working Group

Register here RSVP 

Register here RSVP 

Register here RSVP 

FOR ANY TECHNICAL OR REGISTRATION RELATED QUESTIONS, EMAIL: concierge@aspireartemis.org OR IWDregistration@aspireartemis.org

Please register here:RSVP

Register for the speakers list with africandescent@ohchr.org. For more information about the activities see: https://ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Racism/WGAfricanDescent/Pages/WGEPADIndex.aspx

Call for input, deadline: 22 March 2021 #fightracism #AfricanDescent #WGEPAD Environmental Justice, the Climate Crisis and people of African descent

As part of the Human Rights Day, you are invited to listen to a regional dialogue for Latin America and Caribbean on the “Impact of COVID-19 on people of African descent: building back better,” organized by OHCHR and UNFPA, and co-sponsored by the Government of Costa Rica. The dialogue is organized under the three themes of the International Decade for People of African descent.
RSVP Recognition panel: 9 December, 2020 (11:00 a.m. to 13:00 p.m. CET) 

It may be the United Nations’ seventy-fifth anniversary this year, but here’s a gift for you: a music event with more than 100 artists from all over the world, no ticket required. Premiering exclusively on Facebook Live on the Playing For Change Facebook Page on GivingTuesday at 12 pm PST / 3 pm EST, Peace Through Music: A Global Event for Social Justice will feature artists and public figures like Aloe Blacc, Angélique Kidjo, Becky G, Brandi Carlile with Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Carlos Santana and Cindy Blackman Santana, Gabi Melim, Gary Clark Jr., Jack Johnson, Keith Richards, Mavis Staples, Peter Gabriel, Rhiannon Giddens, Ringo Starr, Robbie Robertson, Run The Jewels with Josh Homme, Sheila E., Skip and Cedella Marley, The War and Treaty, Yo-Yo Ma and more. Billie Eilish, Killer Mike, Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird, Norman Lear and Sara Bareilles among others are scheduled to make special appearances. The event, a collaboration between Playing For Change, an organization that aims to connect the world through music, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), presented by Corning® Gorilla® Glass and co-produced by Blackbird Presents, calls for equality, the recognition of human rights and an end to racism and discrimination.
For more information, please visit UNFPA

This thematic session will build on the WGEPAD’s report COVID-19, systemic racism and global protests and set the scene for the mid-term review of the International Decade for people of African descent and 20th anniversary of the DDPA. It will include discussions on the key themes and priorities for the protection of the human rights of people of African descent, positive developments, good practices and how to address systemic racism based on international human rights law. At the end of the session, the Working Group will adopt conclusions and recommendations. A report on the session will be presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council.
For more information

The Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent (WGEPAD) will be holding its 26th session from 23 to 25 November 2020 during which it will prepare for the midterm review of the International Decade for people of African Descent and the 20th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action to be held next year. The Working Group invites people of African descent, civil society organizations as well as, national human rights institutions and independent national mechanisms and equality bodies that address racial discrimination to participate in regional public meetings. The objective is strategize on the way forward at the mid-term of the International Decade for People of African Descent.
Public virtual meeting RSVP WGEPAD

Please complete the registration form below for the online discussion “Unveiling the Past”. The event takes place on Thursday, 19 November 2020 at 10 a.m. EST. and is organized by the Remember Slavery Programme, Department of Global Communications, United Nations. The discussion will consider the significance of the preservation of burial grounds of those enslaved by the transatlantic slave trade and the ethical questions and the challenges facing historians writing the history of the transatlantic slave trade and the histories of the men, women and children murdered by the brutal institution of slavery.
Please RSVP here Pane Discussion

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

For more information, please visit MIPAD
The Great Green Wall Initiative Panel Discussion: 5 October 2020, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (RSVP, please click here Zoom Meeting)

For more information, please visit IDPAD.CH

For more information, please visit unf.pa/whatsnext

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations
Please join the US Human Rights Network, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Political Rights, and the Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center for a Mid-Decade Summit on the International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD). PAD leaders from Europe, the Americas and across the diaspora are meeting to mark the halfway point of the United Nations proclamation of the IDPAD and discuss the Decade’s themes of recognition, justice, and development.
For more information, please visit www.idpad.org/summit

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

English | Spanish

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations
Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) is a civil society initiative in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent. It identifies high achievers of African descent in public and private sectors from all around the world as a progressive network of relevant actors to join together in the spirit of recognition, justice and development of Africa, its people on the continent and across the diaspora.
For more information, please visit www.mipad.org

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.
This was a multi-disciplinary conference to connect scholars and black communities around the world, featuring panel discussions, local tours, film screenings, workshops, keynotes, and more. The gathering is expected to bring together more than 600 people from across the Americas and beyond.
The event was hosted by the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise and the Institute of African American Research.
Venue: Carolina Theater in Durham, North Carolina
Call for Proposals: http://blackcommunities.unc.edu/2019/index.php/call-for-proposals/

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations
Location: Zacatecoluca, La Paz, El Salvador

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations
Time: Saturday, 27 July 2019, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: The University of Northampton, University Drive, Northampton, NN1 5PH
Organisers: IDPAD Coalition UK in partnership with Salifu Dagarti Foundation and support by The University of Northampton
Programme:
Registration, Refreshments & Networking took place from 10:30 am - 11:00 am.The session (11:00 am) was very informal, aimed at involving delegates from Northampton and surrounding areas in the discussion. Guided discussion from 11:00 am – 12:30pm. The Roundtable was facilitated by Dr Marlene Ellis, Nana Asante, Haja Salifu Dagarti and all members of the IDPAD Coalition UK Board. The Roundtable Meeting ended with an evaluation and another opportunity to network and share contact details for future.
Please contact sdf@salifudagarti.org for further query

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

Following Registration, Refreshments & Networking between 2:00PM – 2:30PM, the session started at 2:30PM. It was informal, aimed at involving delegates from Bristol and surrounding areas. An hour and a half maximum of guided discussion started from 2:30PM – 4:00PM.

The Roundtable was hosted by the Social Sciences and Research Group of the University of the West of England at the Arnolfini City Campus, and was facilitated by Dr Marlene Ellis, Haja Salifu Dagarti, Nana Asante and all members of the IDPAD Coalition UK Board.

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

The fourth edition of the Model African Union Bayreuth Conference (BAYMAU19) at the University of Bayreuth, Germany was held under the theme “Africa in motion – Visions of Mobility, Identities and Citizenship”.

For more information, please visit www.modelafricanunion.de

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

In accordance with resolution A/RES/73/262 A global call for concrete action for the total elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and the comprehensive implementation of and follow-up to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, adopted by the General Assembly, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights organized a one-day consultation on the permanent forum on people of African descent.

Following additional consultations with Member States, and taking into account available conference room space, the one-day Consultation on the permanent forum on people of African descent was held on 10 May 2019 in Room VII at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

In accordance with United Nations General Assembly resolution A/RES/73/262, the Consultation focused on “the modalities, format and substantive and procedural aspects of the permanent forum”.

 

Registration for participants

Programme of work

This event was not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

A business and cultural heritage project organized by the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) in partnership with UNESCO Slave Route Project.

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org/doorofreturn

The International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade was observed at United Nations Headquarters in New York on the afternoon of 25 March 2019. Highlights included a commemorative meeting of the General Assembly in the General Assembly Hall at 3:00 p.m. The meeting featured remarks by the Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly and Member States. The keynote speaker was artist Christopher Cozier from Trinidad and Tobago.

Register to attend commemorative meeting

On the evening of 25 March 2019, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Remember Slavery Programme organized its annual cultural and culinary event with live music in the Visitors’ Lobby. The gathering showcased foods contributed by Member States and music from Africa and the African diaspora, illustrating legacies of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Register to attend cultural event

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

We celebrated our 2nd Anniversary of recognizing EXCELLENCE in people of African Descent across the Diaspora and Inside Africa, in support of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, to be observed from 2015 – 2024 and now officially recognized by the African Union.

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org

 

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

 

Theme: Combating Afrophobia & Intersectionality-Educating the Spanish Society on the Situation of PAD in Spain and the Way Forward

The event was organized by European Network of Women of African Descent (ENWAD) and the European Parliament Anti-Racism & Diversity Intergroup (ARDI).

RSVP >>

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

Afropean Bridges is an international workshop aims to open a discussion about the identity of African-Europeans and to address political, social and cultural issues related to the post-colonial relationship between European and African countries.

For more information, please visit:
https://www.afropeanbridges.org/programme-2019/
https://hscif.org/international-workshop-afropean-bridges2019/

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March.

The UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent was undertaking a fact-finding visit to Argentina from 11 to 18 March 2019. The programme of the visit was expected to include meetings with Government officials, national institutions and civil society.

More information on the fact-finding visit to Argentina. See note in Spanish .

This event focused on the structural challenges faced by women and girls of African descent, including access to social protection and public services. The panel discussion brought together prominent speakers, including experts on minority issues, social protection, and high-level government representatives from Latin American countries.

The Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent invited all interested stakeholders to submit data and analysis on the human rights situation of people of African descent. In accordance with its mandate, the Working Group gathered all available data and analysis (governmental and non-governmental) to prepare a baseline report on the human rights situation of people of African descent.

Guidance note on the request for data
Data template

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

Black Money featured displays of thematically organized banknotes depicting the histories, cultures, politics and experiences of Africans and peoples of African descent in countries around the world.

For more information, please visit https://www.blackmoneyexhibit.com/.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations

The Consulate General of Canada in Atlanta in partnership with the Auburn Avenue Research Library and The Black Money Exhibit presented a panel discussion that explored the history and legacy of pioneering Black Canadians, including Viola Desmond, the first Canadian woman to appear on a regularly circulating bank note. In 1946, Desmond, a successful businesswoman, was jailed for refusing to leave a Whites-only area of a movie theatre. Her court case inspired the pursuit of racial equality across Canada. More information on the Viola Desmond lecture.

The UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent visited Belgium from 4 to 11 February 2019. The Working Group’s visit was at the invitation of the Government and was facilitated by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The programme of the visit included meetings with Government officials, national institutions and civil society.

More information on the fact-finding visit to Belgium.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

People of African descent across the European Union regularly face racial discrimination, racist crime, racial profiling and social exclusion. The policy implications of these experiences will be discussed at the public launch of the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights’ report on “Being Black in the EU.”

28 November 2018, 9:00 – 10:30

European Parliament, Brussels

Hosted by Cecile Kyenge MEP, Malin Bjork MEP, and the European Parliament’s Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup (ARDI); sponsored by OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.

Opening remarks

• Cécile Kyenge, MEP, Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs
  and Co-President, Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup
• Malin Björk, MEP, Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs and member of Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup

What it means to be Black in the EU – FRA survey findings

• Michael O’Flaherty, Director, EU Agency for Fundamental Rights

Ways forward – views from experts and plenary debate

• Christie Edwards, Deputy Head, Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Department, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights
• Elisabeth Kaneza, Senior Fellow on Persons of African Descent, UN Human Rights Regional Office for Europe
• Esther Mamadou, Executive Director, European Network of People of African Descent
• Ghyslain Vedeux, Chair, Conseil Représentatif des Associations Noires, Board Member of the European Network Against Racism
• Rossalina Latcheva, Senior Programme Manager, EU Agency for Fundamental Rights
• Tena Šimonović-Einwalter, Chair, European Network of Equality Bodies

To attend, please register here

The UN Human Rights Regional Office for Europe will host a human rights training for individuals of African descent who are living in a EU Member State and who are actively engaged in the promotion of the rights of people of African descent. The training aims to increase the participants’ knowledge of the functioning of the international human rights system as well as enable them to make use of its instruments and mechanisms for defending the human rights of people of African descent. The training will also provide participants with relevant skills to promote the implementation of the International Decade for people of African descent in their respective countries.

Find out more about the objectives, requirements, selection and format of the training.

Application form

Deadline for Applications: 9 November 2018 18h00 CEST

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

This is the second webchat in a series of three organized by the U.S. Department of State’s Race, Ethnicity and Social Inclusion Unit, in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

Investing in women of African descent is a growing opportunity, as they represent approximately 100 million people in the region. However, women of African descent across the Americas often face multiple barriers to growing their businesses and accessing financing.

During this discussion, women entrepreneurs of African descent and representatives from the financial sector will:

• Share practical ways entrepreneurs can grow their businesses and access financing, such as how to effectively pitch a business to attract investors;
• Outline how the financial sector is currently investing in and supporting businesses with women of African descent founders in the region;
• Discuss the economic benefits of investing in businesses with female founders of African descent;
• Highlight solutions for expanding access to financing for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.

This webchat is conducted in Spanish.

When: Wednesday, 14 November @3:00pm EDT

To join the webchat, please go to: https://share.america.gov/es/decenioafro/.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

The Bedford Stuyvesant Museum of African Art (BSMAA) is holding its annual Nelson “Madiba” Mandela Humanitarian Award Presentation, honouring individuals who embody the ideals and principles of Nelson Mandela.

This year's award ceremony is held under the theme "Education: A Forceful Weapon Empowering The World's Children."

Sunday, 13 October 2018
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Brooklyn Museum
200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York

Organized by the Initiative Schwarze Menschen in Deutschland e.V. (ISD), the Afro Deutsche Akademiker Netzwerk e.V. (ADAN) und BrasilNilê e.V. in cooperation with Engagement Global

In 2016, the Decade was launched at the federal level in Germany. It has the goal to honor the societal contributions of people of African descent by making them visible. Black and African communities have belonged to Germany for centuries. However, this knowledge is not widespread and a negative presentation of people of African descent is prevalent in public discourses. The decade-long existence of a strong Black Movement, which shaped Black Lives and first made them visible, is barely known by many – neither is the fact that people of African descent enrich German society with diverse contributions.

This two-day conference discusses the achievements of the Black Movement and the implementation of the UN Decade for People of African Descent in Germany.

5 October 2018
5pm – 9pm

6 October 2018
10am – 4:30pm

DGB-Gewerkschaftshaus
Wilhelm-Leuschner-Straße 69-77
60329 Frankfurt am Main

Please register by 3 October: Registration Form
Contact: jahrestag.pad@googlemail.com

Screening of the blockbuster "Black Panther" film at UN Headquarters - under the banner of the International Decade for People of African Descent, organized by the Department of Global Communications and the NGO Most Influential People of African Descent. The screening attracted large crowds and featured production designer Hannah Beachler, who explained how she and her team created the fictional African country of Wakanda. In 2019, Ms. Beachler became the first African-American to win an Oscar production design.

For more information, please visit: http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/assets/pdf/Black%20Panther.pdf

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) is a civil society initiative in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent. It identifies high achievers of African descent in public and private sectors from all around the world as a progressive network of relevant actors to join together in the spirit of recognition, justice and development of Africa, its people on the continent and across the diaspora.

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org.

Hosted by the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations and the International Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights

Westin Hotel, 212 East 42nd Street
Thursday, September 27, 2018
3:00 – 4:30 p.m.

Speakers:
Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica, H.E. Ms. Epsy Campbell Barr
United Nations Under Secretary General for Global Communications Alison Smale
Members of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Gay McDougall and Pastor Murillo

Moderated by Carlos Quesada, Executive Director of the International Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Decenio Afro: Adelante is the first webchat in a series of three in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

People of African descent make up approximately one-third of the population, but are represented in government and leadership roles at a far lower percentage. Recent elections in Costa Rica and Barbados resulted in the elections of first-ever woman of African descent elected as Vice President and the first female Prime Minister, respectively. While these achievements indicate there is room for engagement on the issue, they provoke further questions: What are the barriers preventing greater political participation, for both voters and candidates? What obstacles do leaders of African descent face once in office? How can these challenges be overcome and what best practices can be learned from the U.S. experience and other countries in the region?

This web chat will address these questions and more. Viewers can submit questions on the program webpage (https://share.america.gov/es/decenioafro/) or on Twitter using the program hashtag #Adelante. The program will be conducted in Spanish with closed captioning.

When: Wednesday, September 26 @3:00pm EDT

To join the webchat, please go to: https://share.america.gov/es/decenioafro/.

Organized by the African Union Commission, through its Citizens and Diaspora Directorate

The symposium brings together participants from various stakeholder groups, including the African Union Commission, member states of the Union, the Economic Social and Cultural Council of the African Union, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Regional Economic Communities, African civil society groups, African diaspora representatives, and international partners, to develop a road map for the national, continental action towards the achievement of the objectives of the Decade.

• Concept note
• Programme of work

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Theme: "Celebrating and Honouring the African and Indigenous history of El Salvador"

Location: Plaza José Simeón Cañas, Zacatecoluca, La Paz, El Salvador

Supported by the Mayor’s Office of Zacatecoluca, the El Salvador Secretaria de la Cultura de la Presidencia, Humanitas Afrika, AFROES (El Comité de Afrodescendiente de El Salvador), and others.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

The African Descent Festival is intended to celebrate the cultural diversity of people of African descent within Vancouver, while recognizing and promoting attitudes of oneness among all ethnic groups and communities. The event focuses on activating public spaces and bringing a diverse range of programming to connect stakeholders working for this population.

More information: http://www.africandescentfestival.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

The European Union will host the first ever People of African Descent Week in the European Parliament. This is a key initiative to increase awareness of the 15 million people of African descent living in Europe and discuss solutions to address the racial discrimination and violence they face.

The Week will consist of a series of events featuring experts, activists, and policymakers and is co-organized by the European Parliament Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup, the Transatlantic Minority Political Leadership Conference, the European Network Against Racism (ENAR), and Each One Teach One (EOTO).

For more information >>

Organized by Afrodyssée

When: 12 May 2018, 12pm – midnight, followed by an afterparty

Where: Maison Pitoëff, Rue de Carouge 52, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland

What: Featuring 35 African designers, fashion show, market, talk, exhibition

For more information, visit www.afrodyssee.ch.

Afropean Bridges aims to open a discussion about the achievements of the Africa-EU partnership and to address social and cultural issues related to the post-colonial relationship between European and African countries.

The international workshop is organized by Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, in the framework of the activities of its International Center for the Humanities and Social Change and in partnership with the NGO Progressi.

For more information: http://www.afropeanbridges.org

This film screening will feature a discussion with Dr. Sheila Walker, director of the documentary, and Ambassador A. Missouri Sherman-Peter, Permanent Observer of the Caribbean Community to the United Nations.

To RSVP, please go to Eventbrite page

Every year on 25 March, the International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade offers the opportunity to honour and remember those who suffered and died at the hands of the brutal slavery system. The International Day also aims to raise awareness about the dangers of racism and prejudice today.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) is a civil society initiative in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent. It identifies high achievers of African descent in public and private sectors from all around the world as a progressive network of relevant actors to join together in the spirit of recognition, justice and development of Africa, its people on the continent and across the diaspora.

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. Proclaiming the Day in 1966, the General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).

More information >>

The 22nd session of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent will be dedicated to preparing for the Intergovernmental Working Group discussion on the elaboration of a Draft Declaration on the promotion and full respect of human rights of people of African descent.

• Provisional Agenda

• Programme of Work

For more information, see: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Racism/WGAfricanDescent/Pages/WGEPADIndex.aspx

This summit supported by the Government of Guyana will bring together people of African descent from around the world to assess current challenges, propose solutions and set goals for 2024.

More information: https://www.idpadsummit.com/

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

UN AfricanDescent Program >>

Be In Her Shoes: Human Rights Challenges and Achievements of Women and Girls of African Descent

Thursday, 8 March 2018
Palais des Nations
Geneva, Switzerland

Opening Remarks:

Michael Møller
Director-General, United Nations Office at Geneva and Gender Champion

Book Presentation and Moderation:

Kate Gilmore
Deputy High Commissionner for Human Rights, OHCHR

With the Participation of:

Nozipho Joyce Mxakato-Diseko
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations Office and other
International Organizations in Geneva

Alvaro Bello
Professor, Research Center on Social Sciences and Humanities, University La Frontera, Chile

Zakiya Carr Johnson
Principal, ODARA Solutions, independent non-governmental firm, USA

Sonia Viveros Padilla
Director, Fund for Social and Cultural Development, Ecuador

https://reg.unog.ch/event/23854/

Discussions on the International Decade for People of African Descent and its implications for the French Caribbean islands

Speaker: Marie-Evelyne Pétrus-Barry, Member of the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent

7 February, 7pm, at the Bibliotheque Guy Tirolien, Grand-Bourg de Marie-Galante

15 February, 7pm, at the Bibliothèque de Morne-à-l’Eau, Guadeloupe

Entrance is free and open to all.

More information and full programme at https://associationracines.com

The United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent will undertake its first official visit to Spain from 19 to 26 February 2018 to study the human rights situation of people of African descent in the country.

“We will gather information on any forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, Afrophobia and related intolerance, in order to assess the overall human rights situation of people of African descent in Spain,” said Sabelo Gumedze, who currently heads the expert group.

The Working Group’s delegation, which is visiting the country at the invitation of the Government, will travel to Madrid, Barcelona, Almeria and Ceuta, and meet representatives of the Government, relevant communities, civil society organizations and individuals working on issues of racism and racial discrimination.

Mr. Gumedze, together with human rights experts Marie-Evelyne Petrus-Barry and Ricardo Sunga will also study the measures taken to prevent racial discrimination, protect victims of racism and hate crimes, as well as mechanisms for the protection, integration and inclusion of migrants and refugees, and responses to multiple forms of discrimination that specific groups of African descent may face. The Working Group will present a report containing its findings and recommendations to the Human Rights Council in September 2018.

The experts will also promote the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), which aims both to highlight the contribution of people of African descent to societies and to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation to ensure the human rights of people of African descent around the world are respected, protected and fulfilled.

A media conference to share the delegation’s preliminary findings will be held on Monday 26 February, at 14:00 at UNWTO in Madrid.

Information note for civil society

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

 

The Black View, a community of Afro-descent artists and actors in Spain, is organizing a series of workshops during the month of February to promote ethnic diversity in the performing arts.

For more information, please see: www.lajovencompania.com/razas

The 22nd session of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, to be held in Geneva on 19-23 March 2018, will be dedicated to preparing for the Intergovernmental Working Group discussion on the elaboration of a Draft Declaration on the promotion and full respect of human rights of people of African descent.

As part of the preparatory work, the Working Group would appreciate receiving views from all interested stakeholders on the scope of the Declaration on the promotion and full respect of human rights of people of African descent, and in particular the key human rights and specific guarantees the draft Declaration should include. It would also be useful to receive examples of the recognition of the specific human rights of people of African descent within international, regional and national instruments, and through adjudicatory mechanisms of international, regional and national institutions.

This information may be sent to the WGEPAD Secretariat at the Anti-Racial Discrimination Section of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, United Nations Office at Geneva (e-mail: africandescent@ohchr.org). Please note that in order for your input to be considered during the Working Group’s 22nd session, submissions need to be received by 15 February 2018.

Watch the video recording of the event: http://bit.ly/2BQx3Sv

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

A partnership of the Toronto Public Library, Fondation Michaëlle Jean Foundation and The Federation of Black Canadians/ La Fédération des Canadiens Noirs, this event will bring together hundreds of people of African descent and stakeholders.

More information: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-national-black-canadians-summit-moving-forward-le-sommet-pancanadien-des-communautes-noires-tickets-39738043558

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and venue: 3 November to 1 December 2017, Geneva, Switzerland

What:

The Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent provides the participants with an intensive learning opportunity to deepen their understanding of the United Nations human rights system, instruments and mechanisms, with a focus on issues of particular relevance to people of African descent. The Fellowship Programme will allow the participants to better contribute to the protection and promotion of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of people of African descent in their respective countries. For more information, visit

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Akoben Awards/Harrow BHM Group

Date and time: 20 November 2017 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Venue:Mencap, 3 Jardine House (1st floor), Harrovian Business Village, Bessborough Road, Harrow HA1 3EX, United Kingdom

What: The UN's International Decade for People of African Descent 2015-2024 initiative is aimed at redressing, eliminating or mitigating the discrimination and inequality experienced by African people all over the world. History consultant Kwaku will provide a series of audiovisual resources in the public domain as a precursor to interrogating whether IDPAD can achieve its aims. Free admission. To register, please visit www.HarrowBHM.eventbrite.com

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and venue: 20 November to 8 December 2017, Ground Floor, Conference room, Palais Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland

What:

The Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) is the body of independent experts that monitors implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination by its State parties. The Committee will examine the reports of the following eight States parties during its 94th session: Algeria, Australia, Belarus, Jordan, Serbia and Slovakia. For more information, visit http://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/treatybodyexternal/SessionDetails1.aspx?SessionID=1139n.

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and venue: 20 to 24 November 2017, Geneva, Switzerland

What:

The Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent was established on 25 April 2002 by the then Commission on Human Rights, following the World Conference against Racism held in Durban in 2001. It is composed of five independent experts. For more information, visit http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Racism/WGAfricanDescent/Pages/WGEPADIndex.aspx.

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and venue: The meeting will be held in Room XIX Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland from 23 to 24 November 2017

Background and purpose of the meeting: The International Decade for People of African Descent adopted by the General Assembly (2015 – 2024) is an opportunity to analyze and improve the human rights situation and well-being of one of the population groups most affected by racism and discrimination. By combating racial discrimination, the Decade will also strengthen democracy, the rule of law and equality in societies. In 2014, by its resolution 69/16, the General Assembly adopted a Programme of Activities, identifying the objectives and outlining specific actions to be taken within the three themes of the International Decade: recognition, justice and development.

As part of the awareness raising campaign for the International Decade, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights will organize five regional meetings. Such meetings will focus on trends, priorities and obstacles at the national and regional levels to effectively implement the Programme of Activities. The meetings will be also an occasion to exchange good practices. The first meeting for the Latin American and Caribbean region was held in Brasilia on 3-4 December 2015.

This meeting will provide an opportunity to reflect on ways and means that governments from the regions in partnership with equality bodies, national human rights institutions, civil society, development agencies and regional organizations, may pursue to integrate the provisions of the Programmes of Activities in their policies, programmes and strategies tailored for people of African descent.

Participants: The meeting would bring together Member States, United Nations specialized agencies and bodies, regional organizations, national human rights institutions, equality bodies and civil society representatives, particularly people of African descent from the region. Other Member States of the United Nations would be invited to attend as observers. Experts on the topics will be also invited to participate in the meeting.

Documentation and Working languages: The final report of the meeting will be issued as a United Nations document in all official languages.

Further information concerning accreditation, draft agenda and programme modalities will be posted in due course on this page.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Maison des métallos

Dates: 12-29 October 2017
Venue: Maison des métallos | 94 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris, France
For more information, please see the AFRO! Photography Exhibition flyer (in French)

 

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by the Organization of American States and United Nations

Dates: October 18, 2017 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Venue: Hall of the Americas, Organization of American States, 17th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C 20006
What: Produced by cultural anthropologist and Executive Director of Afrodiaspora Inc., Dr. Sheila S. Walker, the documentary highlights the legacy and contributions of people of African Descent. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by the OAS Secretary for Access to Rights and Equity, Mauricio Rands. Panellists will include:

• Dr. Sheila S. Walker, Executive Director of Afrodiaspora Inc.
• Ms. Omyma David, Focal Point of the United Nations Remember Slavery Program
• Dr. Ariana A. Curtis, Museum Curator of the National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Dr. Betilde Muñoz-Pogossian, Director of the OAS Department of Social Inclusion.

An exhibit produced by the United Nations entitled, “Remember Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” to mark the Programme’s tenth anniversary, will also be on display from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Interested persons can register for this event.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Inaugural event organized by Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD).

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org.

Organized by the United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent

Dates: 2-6 October 2017

Location: Georgetown and Linden, Guyana

What: The United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent will undertake its first official visit to Guyana from 2 to 6 October 2017 to study the human rights situation of people of African descent in the country. The Group’s delegation will travel to Georgetown and Linden, and meet representatives of the Government, relevant communities, civil society and individuals working on issues of racism and racial discrimination.

A press conference to share the delegation’s preliminary findings will be held on Friday 6 October, at 1430 hrs in the United Nations Offices in Guyana (42 Brickdam & United Nations Place, Stabroek, Georgetown). Access to the press conference is strictly limited to journalists.

For more information on the Working Group including its mandate and activities please visit its page.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

This summit aims to assess the current status of people of African descent and set goals for 2024. 
For more information, please see: www.idpadsummit.com

 

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

The Bedford Stuyvesant Museum of African Art (BSMAA) is holding its annual Nelson “Madiba” Mandela Humanitarian Award Presentation each October, honouring individuals who embody the ideals and principles of Nelson Mandela.

This year's award ceremony is held under the theme "Education: A Forceful Weapon Empowering The World's Children."

Sunday, 15 October 2017
3:00-5:30 pm
Brooklyn, New York

Venue and ticket information to be announced.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Umoja Caribbean Union, Inc. and Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition, Inc.

Dates: 2-3 September 2017

Venue: St. Croix Educational Complex and Midre Cummings Park

What: Established in 1964, the West Indies Solidarity Day aims to promote economic and social development. The event will also highlight the importance of the International Decade for People of African Descent. The weekend culminates with a memorial ceremony at the site where Arch monument sits at the St. Croix Educational Complex. For more information, email umojacaribbeanunion@gmail.com.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organised by Harrow BHM Group/Akoben Awards/BTWSC/African Histories Revisited/Harrow Mencap

Date and Time: Mondays, 20 March - 28 August 2017, 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Venue: Harrow Mencap, 1st Floor, 3 Jardine House, Harrow Business Village, Bessborough Road, Harrow, London HA1 3EX, United Kingdom

What: The sessions are presented by Akoben Awards in association with BTWSC/African Histories Revisited and Harrow Mencap, and facilitated/curated by music industry and history consultant Kwaku. The sessions are free, intergenerational and take place on occasional Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The 2017 Programme includes:

20 March 2017 - Changing the Narrative – African Identity through the Media Lens (Ade Banjoko) A presentation and discussion exploring the representation of African identity in the media today and its impact on African youth; a look at the issue and some concrete ways in which to change the narrative. Presented by the London Parents Action and Resource Centre (PARC).

3 April 2017 - Highlighting the Liberation Works of Ras Seymour McLean (Shango Baku) Bro Shango adds to and leads the post-screening of the work Ras Seymour as an Ethiopia-facing Rastafari in liberating books looted from Ethiopia.

17 April 2017 - Highlighting African History Across London (Avril Nanton) Avril will talk about some of the statues and African representations found along her walks through London.

8 May 2017 - African British Civil Rights (Tony Walker) The bias in schools and the media give the impression that racism and civil rights was an American issue and totally ignores the struggles African British people. This presentation will provide the names and achievements of those African people born or resident here who fought against British racism.

15 May 2017 - Living History with Stella Dadzie: A Lifetime in the Womanist Struggle. A rare opportunity to hear London-born educationalist, writer, historian, gender and race equality activist Stella Dadzie tell her been-there-done-that life story that goes beyond the organization she co-founded in 1978, Organisation of Women of African and Asian Descent, or books, such as the Heart Of The Race: Black Women's Lives In Britain.

22 May 2017 - Reframing Marcus Garvey in History (Everol Wilson) This is an opportunity to find a bit more about Garvey beyond the usual narrative. Even if you know about Garvey, you are bound to learn a thing or two you never knew, such as his dealings with the Versailles Peace Conference.

29 May 2017 - Highlighting African Herstory (Nana Asante) In this postponed marking of International Women's History Month, Nana highlights women of African heritage worthy of being lauded.

21 August 2017 - Remembering Aug. 23: International Day of African Resistance against Enslavement (Kwaku) We’ll mark International Day of African Resistance against Enslavement with a round table meeting focused what we as individuals and collectively can do about the UN International Decade For People Of African Descent initiative.

28 August 2017 - Remembering Aug. 31: African History Reflection Day (Kwaku) We’ll mark the 4th African History Reflection Day by focusing on African History Month UK @ 30.

Admission: Free - To register, please visit www.HarrowBHM.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

"Celebrating and Honouring the African and Indigenous history of El Salvador." 

Dates: 26-27 August 2017

Venue: Zacatecoluca and Ereguayquin, El Salvador

Location: Plaza José Simeón Cañas, Zacatecoluca, La Paz, El Salvador

Supported by the Mayor’s Office of Zacatecoluca, the El Salvador Secretaria de la Cultura de la Presidencia, Humanitas Afrika, AFROES (El Comité de Afrodescendiente de El Salvador), and others.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by African Descent Society BC

Dates: 22 to 23 July 2017

Venue: Thornton Park, 1166 Main St, Vancouver, Canada

 

What: The African Descent Festival promotes excellence in arts, culture, music and speech by providing performance and educational opportunities through music festivals in the Province of British Columbia. For more information, visit www.africandescentfestival.com.

Organized by Deutscher Bundestag Committee on Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid

Dates: 22 June 2017

Venue: Deutscher Bundestag

What: With Germany's key role in the European Union, this event marks an important occasion for people of African descent in Germany as well as in Europe. The event aims to engage policymakers and inspire others to also implement the International Decade for People of African Descent..

PROGRAMME

Introduction

Elisabeth Kaneza – OHCHR Fellow, Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent

Welcoming remarks by the Committee on Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid

Dr. Karamba Diaby – Deputy Chairperson

Key Note

Mactar Ndoye – Secretary of the Intergovernmental Working Group for the Effective Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, OHCHR

Presentation of Self-Organizations

Moctar Kamara – High Council of the African Community in Germany

Tahir Della – Initiative Black People in Germany

Jasmin Eding – ADEFRA | Black Women in Germany

Emmanuel Peterson – Association Young German-Africans

Expert statements

Damaris Uzoma – Racial Discrimination and Racial Profiling

Judy Gummich – Human Rights Education and Vulnerable Groups

Yonas Endrias – Addressing German Colonialism

Serge Palasie –Political Education on the History of People of African Descent

Discussion

The session will be followed by a reception

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Otro Sur

Dates: 3 May to 10 June 2017

Venue: Various locations in Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena and Providencia, Colombia

What: The 2nd African Film Showcase (MUICA 2017) will be held during Colombia's African Heritage Month and will take place in independent movie theatres, universities, cultural centres, libraries, schools and neighbourhoods in Bogotá (3 to 9 May), Cali (10 to 16 May), Cartagena (24 to 31 May) and Providencia (2 to 10 June). Astronauts, vampires, electric guitars, migrants, travelers, revolutionaries, visionaries, divas, demystified leaders, minorities and itinerant preachers are some of the protagonists of the festival's 20 films on Africa and its diaspora. For more information, visit http://otrosur.org.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organised by Africans for JC Values & BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Saturday, 13 May 2017, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Venue: Unite the Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TN, United Kingdom

What: From Black History Month to African History Month -- 30 Years On: An opportunity to hear about how Black History Month was introduced in Britain, where it's at and where it should be going, especially this year, as we mark its 30th anniversary; as well as history's role in addressing the UN International Decade for People of African Descent.

12:30-1:00 p.m. Registration/Refreshments, 25 Years On video
1:00-1:20 p.m. Welcome
1:20-2:20 p.m. African/Black History Month videos
2:20-3:20 p.m. From Black History Month to African History Month 30 Years On discussion
3:20-4:00 p.m. Presentations by African History specialists/Launch of African History UK Network & African History @ 30/#AHMUK30 Campaign
4:00-4:30 p.m. Refreshments, networking, wrap-up

· Books, DVDs and food on sale
· Find out how Black History Month was introduced in Britain
· Hear about some of the programmes African history specialists will be delivering as part of African History Month @ 30
· Improve your global African history knowledge base, and history's role in addressing the International Decade For People Of African Descent
· Find out about the African Jubilee Year Declaration and its role in the introduction of Black History Month 30 years ago
· Find out the hubs for discovering where African History events are happening in and out of the Month

Admission: £5/£10 - To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Harrow BHM Group/Akoben Awards in association with RE:IMI (Race Equality: In Music Industry)/BritishBlackMusic.com/Black Music Congress

Date and Time: Monday, 5 June 2017, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Harrow Mencap, 1st Floor, 3 Jardine House, Harrow Business Village, Bessborough Road, Harrow, London HA1 3EX, United Kingdom

What: Musician Dave Randall, author of Sound System – The Political Power of Music, tells the history of the Rock against Racism (RAR) movement and highlights what part music and culture can play in the fight against racism.

Admission: Free - To register, please visit www.BBM.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by the Afro-Latino Festival of New York

Dates: 7 to 8 July 2017

Venue: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, 515 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10037 and Bed-Stuy Restoration Plaza, 1368 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11216

What: The Afro-Latino Festival of New York celebrates the contributions that people of African descent from Latin America and the Caribbean have made to New York City and the global culture as a whole. To celebrate the fifth year, the festival will highlight the contributions of women throughout the diaspora. The summer cultural event continues to attract a wide array of artists, both local and international, as well as entrepreneurs, academics and community leaders. With conferences, culinary presentations and artistic showcases, the festival features the work, values and issues important to the Afro-Latino community. For more information, visit www.afrolatinofestnyc.com.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Otro Sur

Dates: 3 May to 10 June 2017

Venue: Various locations in Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena and Providencia, Colombia

What: The 2nd African Film Showcase (MUICA 2017) will be held during Colombia's African Heritage Month and will take place in independent movie theatres, universities, cultural centres, libraries, schools and neighbourhoods in Bogotá (3 to 9 May), Cali (10 to 16 May), Cartagena (24 to 31 May) and Providencia (2 to 10 June). Astronauts, vampires, electric guitars, migrants, travelers, revolutionaries, visionaries, divas, demystified leaders, minorities and itinerant preachers are some of the protagonists of the festival's 20 films on Africa and its diaspora. For more information, visit http://otrosur.org.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Harrow BHM Group/Akoben Awards in association with RE:IMI (Race Equality: In Music Industry)/BritishBlackMusic.com/Black Music Congress

Date and Time: Monday, 5 June 2017, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Harrow Mencap, 1st Floor, 3 Jardine House, Harrow Business Village, Bessborough Road, Harrow, London HA1 3EX, United Kingdom

What: Musician Dave Randall, author of Sound System – The Political Power of Music, tells the history of the Rock against Racism (RAR) movement and highlights what part music and culture can play in the fight against racism.

Admission: Free - To register, please visit www.BBM.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organised by Africans for JC Values & BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Saturday, 13 May 2017, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Venue: Unite the Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TN, United Kingdom

What: From Black History Month to African History Month -- 30 Years On: An opportunity to hear about how Black History Month was introduced in Britain, where it's at and where it should be going, especially this year, as we mark its 30th anniversary; as well as history's role in addressing the UN International Decade for People of African Descent.

12:30-1:00 p.m. Registration/Refreshments, 25 Years On video
1:00-1:20 p.m. Welcome
1:20-2:20 p.m. African/Black History Month videos
2:20-3:20 p.m. From Black History Month to African History Month 30 Years On discussion
3:20-4:00 p.m. Presentations by African History specialists/Launch of African History UK Network & African History @ 30/#AHMUK30 Campaign
4:00-4:30 p.m. Refreshments, networking, wrap-up

· Books, DVDs and food on sale
· Find out how Black History Month was introduced in Britain
· Hear about some of the programmes African history specialists will be delivering as part of African History Month @ 30
· Improve your global African history knowledge base, and history's role in addressing the International Decade For People Of African Descent
· Find out about the African Jubilee Year Declaration and its role in the introduction of Black History Month 30 years ago
· Find out the hubs for discovering where African History events are happening in and out of the Month

Admission: £5/£10 - To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organised by Africans for JC Values & BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Saturday, 22 April 2017, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Venue: Unite the Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TN, United Kingdom

What: In the midst of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, this family-friendly event offers discourse on African identity and history through discussions, quiz, music and drama.

12:30-1:00 p.m. Registration/Refreshments, The African or Black Question documentary excerpt
1:00-1:20 p.m. Welcome
1:20-1:40 p.m. Global African Quiz
1:40-2:00 p.m. African Voices Quotations Session
2:00-3:30 p.m. As Long as You're of African Heritage... play & Q&A
3:30-4:00 p.m. Introduction of African History UK Network & African History @ 30/#AHMUK30 Campaign includes Golden Minutes from African History specialists
4:00-4:30 p.m. Music 4 Causes playlist, Araning, refreshments, wrap-up
 

• Books, DVDs and food on sale
• Hear about the International Decade for People of African Descent
• "Listen To Music 4 Causes:" conscious and empowering music
• Improve your global African history knowledge base with quick fire quiz
• Find out about the African Jubilee Year Declaration and its role in the introduction of Black History Month 30 years ago
• Be inspired by quotations by Africans on the continent and its diaspora using the African Voices: Quotations by People of African Descent book
• Let the play fire your imagination and engender discussion about identity, etc.

Admission: £5/£10 - To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Kwanzaa (Society of Students of African Descent)

Dates: 24 to 26 April 2017

Venue: Complutense University of Madrid, Somosaguas Campus, Faculty of Political Science and Sociology, Pozuelo de Alarcón 28223, Madrid, Spain

What: As the first Model African Union at a Spanish university, this event will serve as an opportunity for students and future leaders to gain an in-depth understanding of Africa and its institutions through diplomacy, tolerance and peaceful negotiations. During these discussions, the event aims to find solutions to issues such as climate change, terrorism, inequality, poverty and any problem that affects the African continent, its citizens and its diaspora. Students interested in participating as a delegate can apply at http://bit.ly/2o1gWpT. For more information, please e-mail asociacionkwanzaa@gmail.com or call (+34) 631452513.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by Afrodyssée

Dates: 28 to 29 April 2017

Venue: Parc Barton, Rue de Lausanne 132, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland

What: Afrodyssée 2017 delighted a large and diverse audience with a refreshing and embellishing programme. The Grand Marché included more than 34 exhibitors, selected for their savoir-faire and quality offerings. The two sold out fashion shows that took place each evening brought on stage the trendiest wonders that could be found within the Grand Marché.

 

The event also promoted the "International Decade for People of African Descent 2015-2024" through a series of thematic discussions and workshops. One panel on media and minorities was moderated by the French journalist and activist Rokhaya Diallo and included Mactar Ndoye (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights), Nassira El Moaddem (Bondyblog), Mona Chollet (journalist, Monde Diplomatique) and Mémona Hintermann (journalist and French Council of Audio-Visual Advisor). The speakers discussed multiple forms of discrimination and solutions to address them.

 

 

Bloggers Fatou N’diaye and Freddie Harrel led a self-esteem workshop. This was an intense and emotional moment, as several women shared intimate life experiences with a room comprised of mostly women of African descent. The thematic debate on Afro-feminism, moderated again by Rokhaya Diallo and with the participation of Pamela Ohene Nyako (activist), Yvoire de Rosen (journalist, anthropologist and sociologist) and Awori (music artist) was the most successful in terms of audience and speakers. The series ended on a lighter note with the “Afro-Hair” workshop, presented by the cheerful and cheeky Doris Agyemang who entertained as well as informed her audience.

 

 

Afrodyssée is becoming an important platform where trends, fashion, craftsmanship shine but are also leveraged to bring across important issues, such as human rights of people of African descent, minorities and women. With an increasing interest and more than 2,500 visitors, Afrodyssée closed its third edition on a very satisfying note and promises for a brighter future for this unique event in Switzerland.

 

For more information, visit www.afrodyssee.ch.

 

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and Time: 3 to 7 April 2017

Venue: Palais des Nations, Room XXI, United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland

What: This session entitled "Leaving no one behind, people of African descent and the Sustainable Development Goals" will be used 1) to advocate for prioritization of people of African descent in work to achieve SDGs and 2) to develop simple operational guidelines for use by stakeholders (Governments, UN and civil society) on how to prioritize people of African descent as a particularly discriminated group at all stages of implementation of the SDGs. For more information, visit

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and Time: Wednesday, 5 April 2017, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Venue: Palais Wilson, First floor conference room, 52 rue des Pâquis, Geneva, Switzerland

What: During the Twentieth Session of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent (WGEPAD), there will be a Consultation with Civil Society. The objective of the consultation is to explore new and innovative ways for the Working Group to work with civil society organizations to strengthen its work. The afternoon will include discussions on three guiding questions outlined below, exploring the key challenges of racial discrimination today and responses by civil society to combat these, engagement to date by civil society with the Working Group and suggestions to strengthen the impact of its recommendations on the ground and recommendations for priority human rights concerns which the Working Group should focus on in the next three years.

Live webcast will be available at webtv.un.org. For more information, visit.

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Organized by IDPAD Coalition UK

Date and Time: Saturday, 25 March 2017, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Venue: University College London (Room G06, Roberts Building, Sir Ambrose Fleming Lecture Theatre), Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom

What: The UN Decade for People of African Descent (2015 - 2024) is a catalyst for People of African Heritage to work together on the challenges affecting the Community. The Interactive Conference on 25 March 2017 will provide the time and space to begin the conversation on what change we want to see in 2024.

Admission: Free - To register, please visit www.bit.ly/IDPADIConf

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

Official launch of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) initiative and unveiling of the 2017 MIPAD ranking.

For more information, please visit www.mipad.org.

The United Nations Information Centre in Accra hosted an indigenous Nigerian artist, Femi Coker, to underline the important contributions made by people of African descent to our societies as part of a project to promote the International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD). Mr. Coker visited Ghana wearing the world's longest cap, which is 300 feet long and 9 inches in diameter, under his Renaissance Expedition to 1000 Cities project. For more information, visit

The United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent will undertake its first official visit to Germany from 20 to 27 February 2017 to study the human rights situation of people of African descent in the country.

The Group’s delegation, who visits the country at the invitation of the Government, will travel to Berlin, Dessau, Dresden, Frankfurt, Cologne, Wiesbaden, Dusseldorf and Hamburg, to meet representatives of the Government, relevant communities, civil society organisations and individuals working on issues of racism and racial discrimination.

A press conference to share the delegation’s preliminary findings will be held on Monday 27 February at 13:00 in the Conference Hall, Federal Press Conference, Schiffbauerdamm 40, 10117 Berlin (corner of Reinhardtstraße). Access to the press conference is strictly limited to journalists.

The Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent was established on 25 April 2002 by the then Commission on Human Rights, following the World Conference against Racism held in Durban in 2001. It is composed of five independent experts: Mr. Ricardo A. Sunga III (the Philippines), current Chair-Rapporteur; Mr. Michal Balcerzak (Poland); Ms. Mireille Fanon Mendes-France (France), Mr. Sabelo Gumedze (South Africa) and Mr. Ahmed Reid (Jamaica).

Read the press release.

Expert seminar organized by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in cooperation with the Nathanson Centre for Transnational Human Rights, Crime and Security at the Osgoode Hall Law School

This expert seminar is an awareness-raising activity contributing to the implementation of the Programme of Activities of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

The overall objective of the seminar is to examine the elements of “access to justice,” in relation to the lived experiences of people of African descent, under the “Justice” theme of the Decade. While the seminar will take place in Canada and consider the Canadian context and national legal framework, it will be a meeting with an international focus, participation and impact.

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Organised by BTWSC/African Histories Revisited, Akoben Awards, Harrow BHM Group

Date and Time: Monday, 19 December 2016, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Harrow Mencap, 3 Jardine House (1st floor), Harrovian Business Village, Bessborough Road, Harrow On The Hill HA1 3EX, England

What: The Phillip siblings -- Antonio, Marcel and Destiny -- once again end the Xtra History & Reasoning Sessions year with a presentation -- this time the focus is on IDPAD (International Decade For People Of African Descent) and what it means to the younger generation.

Admission: Free To register, please visit www.bit.ly/YouthIDPAD

 

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations.

 

 

 

Date and Time: Thursday, 8 December 2016, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: United Nations Headquarters, New York

 

Opening remarks

 

Ms. Cristina Gallach

Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information

H.E. Mr. Courtenay Rattray

Permanent Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations

Ms. Marie Paule Roudil

Director of UNESCO Liaison Office New York

 

Short films followed by a discussion with:

 

Diarah N'Daw Spech

Co-director of the African Diaspora International Film Festival in New York

Electra Weston

Film maker, producer, actor and dancer; founder of the International Child Program

Renzo Devia

Director of "AfroLatinos" documentary

Iyawó Alicia Anabel Santos

Writer / Producer of “AfroLatinos” documentary

Moderated by Mary Ferreira, Television producer, United Nations Department of Public Information

Organized by the United Nations Department of Public Information

Co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Jamaica to the United Nations and UNESCO

To attend, RSVP here

Organised by Africans for JC Values & BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Saturday, 12 November 2016, 1.00pm to 4.00pm

Venue: Unite The Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TN, United Kingdom

What: A meeting looking at a) how the Decade can enhance work African people and African-led organisations (UK & International) are already doing, b) what we would like to come out of the UN's IDPAD 2015-24 by highlighting specific outcomes, and c) networking, hearing from and learning from what individual Africans and African-led organisations are doing or plan doing in furtherance of the IDPAD 2015-24.

Interested persons are welcome to send their four SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-specific) strategies or policies they would like to see within the Decade by 8 November to africansfor@gmail.com.

The information from the SMART survey will be collated and discussed on 12 November within three workshops covering Justice, Recognition and Development. Strategies agreed at workshops will be fed back to plenary session.

Feedback from 12 November meeting will be shared with IDPAD Coalition UK and related UK and international organisations.

Admission: Free

To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

Organized by Irish in Britain

Date and Time: 8 November 2016, 7 p.m. to 10.30 p.m.

Venue: London Irish Centre, Presidential Room, Camden, London, UK

Featuring:

• Ambassador Dan Mulhall, Irish Ambassador to Great Britain
• Professor Elizabeth Anionwu, University of West London
• Professor Bryan Fanning, University College Dublin
• Dr Joseph Healy, Historian
• Mr. Conrad Bryan, Trustee of "Irish in Britain" and the Association of Mixed Race Irish

For more information, please see: http://www.irishinbritain.org

Organized by Black Health Alliance

Date and Time: Saturday, 12 November 2016, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Venue: North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The objective of “A Sound Mind” is to start the conversation about mental health in the Black community and in so doing break the stigmas surrounding mental health. This year’s forum puts the spotlight on youth because they are often not heard and in many cases dismissed. The goal is to identify and develop strategies and supports for families and peers to help Black youth living with a mental illness.

Admission to the forum is free.

To register, please visit https://asoundmind2.eventbrite.ca

Ocho Rios Jazz Festival

 

Date : 29 May – 05 June 2016

Venue: Ocho Rios, Saint Ann

The annual Jamaica International Ocho Rios Jazz Festival has developed and established itself as a vehicle for showcasing international and Caribbean musicians and artistes. This is the Festival’s 26th staging.

Email: jazzinfo@ochoriosjazz.com

Website: http://www.ochoriosjazz.com/

 

Calabash Literary Festival

 

Date : 03 – 05 June 2016

Venue: Treasure Beach, Saint Elizabeth

A three-day literary festival of readings, music and storytelling. The festival, which features established and upcoming writers from all over the world, is open to the public and held every two years.

Website: http://www.calabashfestival.org/2016/index.html

 

Tru-Juice Cross-Country 5K Race

 

Date: 05 June 2016

Venue: Bog Walk, Saint Catherine

Tel: +1-876-967-4903

One of many running events staged across the island every year, this unique event takes you off-the-road and on-the-farm for a day of fun and competition for runners, walkers and mountain bikers. Held on farmlands in Bog Walk, St. Catherine, the 5K Run & Walk plus a 20K race for bikers, features MyLaps® chip timing, country hospitality and post-race activities including tastings, refreshments and a dip in the Farm’s pristine river!

Website: http://www.runningeventsja.com/

 

Racers Grand Prix (Track and Field)

 

Date : 11 June 2016

Venue: National Stadium, Kingston

The first staging of this international track and field event is organized by Usain Bolt’s track club, Racers Track Club Ltd. This athletic link up seeks to bring some of the world’s most compelling athletes to Jamaica and will certainly whet the track and field appetite for the fans during the Diamond League series and leading up to Rio Olympics.

Email: racersgrandprix@gmail.com

 

Caribbean Fashion Week

 

Date : 17 – 19 June 2016

Venue: Kingston

Tel: +1(876) 960-0049

This year marks the 16th staging of the largest and most significant fashion/entertainment event in the Caribbean region. Caribbean Fashion Week celebrates the best of Caribbean fashion with 3 nights of runway shows, a Black Tie Gala and a post-show wrap event. The show will highlight the work of the Caribbean’s best designers and their international counterparts at an international level.

Email: kc@pulsecarribean.com

Website: http://www.caribbeanfashionweek.com/?q=nod

 

Kingston on the Edge Urban Arts Festival (KOTE)

 

Date : 17 – 26 June 2016

Venue: Kingston

KOTE celebrates the artists who live, work and/or are inspired by Kingston and exposes the artistic gems and powerful community spirit of Kingston. It features Studio and Performing Arts including painting, sculpture, installation art, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, furniture design, graphic design, photography, film, animation, poetry, dance, theatre, live music and anything else the artist can conceptualize. KOTE allows for opportunities to discover Kingston’s vibrant art and the city itself through various locations from the surrounding city hills to the downtown harbour front.

Email: kingstonedge@gmail.com

Website: http://www.kingstonontheedge.org/

 

Green Run

 

Date : 21 June 2016

Venue: Clarendon

The Portland Bight Green Run 7.5k Run/Walk is the only event of its kind held off Jamaica’s Beaten Path, the South Coast. This event aims to celebrate the earth and Jamaica’s natural resources. It is extremely important to show support for the protected areas as they are vital in the preservation of our fragile natural resources. The Portland Bight Protected Area spans 1,876 sq.km (land and sea) and contains many of Jamaica’s endemic species some of which are endangered. This year will mark the 3rd staging of this exceptional event.

Email: ccamfngo@gmail.com

Website: http://www.ccam.org.jm/

 

CPL T20 (Regional) Cricket Championships

 

Date : 01 – 24 July 2016

Venue: Sabina Park, Kingston

Tel: +1-876-967-3976

The regional franchise teams assemble this summer for the biggest party in sports in the Caribbean – the CPLT20 tournament! Catch the excitement, the action and the parties in the stands. Come cheer for your favourite team and players, or meet the stars of the game.

 

Jamaica International Invitational Masters Tournament

 

Date : 02 – 03 July 2016

Venue: West Pow Park, Montego Bay Saint James

Tel: +1(876) 866 8557

This event will see twelve (12) teams from Jamaica, the Caribbean and North America, competing for prizes and awards.

 

Portland Jerk Festival

 

Date : 03 July 2016

Venue: Folly Oval, Portland

Email: ayasso@portlandjerkfestival.com

Portland Jerk Festival is the largest annual jerk and food festival in Jamaica which has been a major calendar event for the past 14 years. This food and music juncture is staged at the heritage site at Folly Estate in Portland. The event includes live wholesome family entertainment, jerked food and other tasty delights.

 

Little Ochi Seafood Carnival

 

Date : 10 July 2016

Venue: Alligator Pond, Manchester

Tel: +1(876) 610-9692

Email: Little.ochie@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.littleochie.com/

The annual Little Ochi Seafood Carnival is set for 10 July, 2016. This famous event attracts the entire community, Jamaicans from across the island plus overseas visitors. Choose from a wide array of seafood dishes and end the day with a fun carnival type concert and party on the beach.

 

Reggae Sumfest

 

Date : 17 - 23 July 2016

Venue: Catherine Hall, Montego Bay

Website: http://www.reggaesumfest.com/

Jamaica's summer music festival Reggae Sumfest has been "Promoting music - the universal force" for the past 20 years. The festival has seen some of the most talented acts in the industry performing for three themed nights to thousands of patrons. Among the reggae icons who have graced the stage of Reggae Sumfest are Damian “Junior Gong” Marley, Bounty Killa, Beenie Man, Beres Hammond, Burning Spear, Bunny Wailer, Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers, Third World, Gregory Isaacs, Maxi Priest, Dennis Brown, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Gregory Isaacs, Taurus Riley, Protoje, Konshens and others. International artistes have included Dru Hill, Ja Rule, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Kanye West, Mary J. Blige, Titi Jackson, Ne-Yo, Rihanna, Fantasia Barino, Usher, LL Cool J, Ludacris and Snoop Dogg

 

Jamaica Festival

 

Date : 31 July – 06 August 2016

Venue: Kingston

Tel: Tel: +1(876)926-5726

Email: jcdc@cwjamaica.com

Website: http://jcdc.gov.jm/

Celebrate Jamaica’s independence at Jamaica Festival in Kingston or Montego Bay. This period features many exciting events which showcase the talents of Jamaicans. The float parade and grand gala forms the zenith of the celebrations and have helped to strategically revitalize and engender the nostalgic Independence celebrations. Other shows/activities include: Mello-Go-Roun’, Emancipation Vigils, World Reggae Dance Finals, National Thanks giving Church Service, Augus’ Fair and Independence street Dance.

 

Denbigh Agri-Industrial Show

 

Date : 01 August 2016

Venue: May Pen, Clarendon

Tel: +1-876-922-0610-2

Website: http://www.jas.gov.jm/Denbigh.html

Showcasing the best in Jamaica’s agriculture, including livestock, agricultural and horizontal exhibits. Competitions include the National Champion Farmer and the National Young Farmer.

 

Breds Treasure Beach T20 Cup (Cricket Tournament)

 

Date : 13 – 27 September 2016

Venue: Calabash Bay, Treasure Beach, Saint Elizabeth

Tel: +1(876) 965 3000

Email: info@breds.org

Website: http://www.breds.org/

In order to foster community empowerment and sustainability, Breds carries out a variety of programmes designed to enhance the livelihoods of Treasure Beach community members, and care for the surrounding natural environment. Breds operate on the belief that when the community's education and sport is enriched; and healthcare and cultural heritage is nurtured, the community will thrive on its own strengths and skills.

 

Port Antonio Marlin Tournament

 

Date : 01 – 08 October 2016

Venue: Port Antonio, Portland

Tel: +1 (876) 927-0145/ (876) 909-8818

Fax: +1 (876) 977-6995

Email: rondq69@gmail.com

Fun, social events and competitive angling summarizes this weeklong sport-fishing event in Port Antonio, Portland in north-eastern Jamaica. Approximately 35-40 boats, inclusive of overseas boat entries, will all be attending this tournament with some 300-400 participants daily along with other guests.

 

Merritone Homecoming and Reunion

 

Date : 12 – 17 October 2016

Venue: Sea Garden Beach Resort Kent Avenue, Montego Bay, Saint James

Website: http://www.merritonemusic.com/

The 66th Anniversary of Merritone Music and the 26th Anniversary of Merritone Music Homecoming are great reasons to celebrate this year. Join the musical Blake clan and friends while they bring back memories of yesterday and present great hope for music as a universal force for unity.

 

One World Ska & Rocksteady Music Festival

 

Date : 15 – 16 October 2016

Venue: Sabina Park, Kingston

Tel: +1 (876) 353-0527

Email: sounds_pressure@yahoo.com

The event is conceptualized to promote Kingston, the birthplace of Jamaica’s popular music industry. This special juncture aims to be an annual festival targeting the vast fan base of Ska and Rocksteady music lovers around the world. Over 1,600 Ska bands are estimated to be operating worldwide and with this event these Ska bands will hopefully seek to visit Jamaica to perform at the birthplace of Ska music. Rocksteady influenced the development of the unique sounds of reggae music.

 

Hook & Line Canoe Tournament

 

Date : 18 – 20 October 2016

Venue: Treasure Beach, Saint Elizabeth

Tel: +1(876)965 0635

Email: jakes@cwjamaica.com

This tournament is a 3-day competition during which local fishermen vie for prizes by catching the largest fish using only traditional fishing methods of a simple hook and line. No fancy yachts or first world equipment are to be seen at this grass roots event. The week-end also includes other exciting events such as a boat race, local talent show, fish fry and community beach party. The competition will feature environmental exhibits and entertainment.

 

Restaurant Week

 

Date : 13 – 21 November 2016

Venue: Island-wide

Website: http://go-jamaica.com/rw/

Email: restaurantweekjamaica@gmail.com

Eight days of culinary exploration, offering special discounts at over 75 participating restaurants across Jamaica. The annual Restaurant Week is in its 11th year and encourages friends and families to dine out with fixed priced menus at participating establishments. The cuisine options range from Morning Bites, Nyam & Scram, Tasty, Savoury, and Delectable to Epicurean.

 

Annies Revenge Golf Tournament

 

Date : 16 – 20 November 2016

Venue: Rose Hall, Saint James

Website: http://go-jamaica.com/rw/

Tel: +1(800)294-7687

Now in its 11th year, the Jamaica Tourist Board will partner with Cobra Puma Golf, as Presenting Sponsor, to stage what many players have described as the best Pro-Am in the Caribbean region. The five-star Hyatt Ziva/Zilara in Montego Bay is the host hotel for tournament participants, offering players and guests a five-day, luxury all-inclusive experience, with over 11 gourmet specialty restaurants, full service spa and nightly entertainment. Teams will compete over 54 holes, playing both the Cinnamon Hill and White Witch golf courses, as they vie for the Jamaica Pro-Am Championship trophy. In addition to the competitive golf, the five-day event will include a welcome and awards gala, spectacular tee prizes and tee bag. Event sponsors include Cobra Puma Golf as Presenting Sponsor, Delta Air Lines as the official tournament carrier, Hyatt Ziva/Zilara as host resort, and the Jamaica Tourist Board. For more information and to register please visit www.jamaicaproam.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1800-294-7687

Organised by BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Monday, 31 October 2016, 6;30pm to 8;30pm

Venue: Brent Civic Centre (Meeting Rooms 4/5), Engineers Way, Wembley, HA9 0FJ, United Kingdom

This is an updated version of the audio-visual presentation given by history consultant and FOMGB (Friends Of Marcus Garvey Bust) co-ordinator Kwaku at the unveilling of the Marcus Garvey bust at Brent Museum on August 17 2016.

Come and find out a bit more about Marcus Garvey, who he was, what he did, why as a unifying pan-Africanist icon, it's important that his bust is at Brent Museum and that he is regularly celebrated. Not to mention what his connection is to the founding of African History Month in Britain! Garvey also highlighted the need for African self-confidence and empowerment, which are crucial as we deal with IDPAD (International Decade For People of African Descent) issues. This African History Season event is hosted by Cllr James Allie, and as it takes place during the mid-term break, you're welcome to bring young people!

Watch out for details of the inaugural Brent Marcus Garvey Pan-African Presentation on August 17 2017 at Brent Museum. To be kept informed, email bbmbmc@gmail.com.

Admission: Free

To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

Organised by BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Sunday, 23 October 2016, 2:00pm to 4:00 pm & 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Venue: Brady Arts & Community Centre, 192-196 Hanbury Street, Whitechapel, London E1 5HU, United Kingdom

A play exploring identity during African History Month 2016 & IDPAD 2015-24

Taking its starting point from Peter Tosh's 'African' song, 'As Long As You're of African Heritage...' posits that anyone of African heritage is African, irrespective of where they are born or based.

Using the format of a play with five actors set within the course of a management committee meeting of an African-led voluntary organisation, we witness the dynamics of the meeting change from congratulatory back-patting on account of a successful fundraising exercise, to putting plans for a Black History Month (BHM) event on hold, as tensions rise around the issues of identity within the African British community, where there is often a disconnect from Africa, especially by those born in Britain or the Caribbean.

The play also questions what BHM should be about and whether it should be renamed.

The afternoon performance is targeted as an outing for youths, school children, teachers and parents, whilst the evening performance is targeted at the wider community. A facilitated Q&A follows each performance, which provides the audience with an opportunity to engage with the issues raised in the play.

Admission: Free

To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

Organised by BTWSC/African Histories Revisited

Date and Time: Friday, 14 October 2016, 4.30pm to 6.30pm

Venue: Ghana Institute of Journalism, 32 Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue, Accra, Ghana

The UN declared 2014-2025 the International Decade for People of African Descent under the theme Recognition, Justice and Development.

How aware are we in Ghana of this initiative? And how can we use it for our upliftment and development?

The resolution calls on Member States, civil society and all other relevant actors to join together with people of African heritage and take effective measures for the implementation of the programme of activities. The Decade is an opportunity to push for the elimination of racism, racial and structural discrimination against Africans.

History consultant, community activist and former University of Westminster lecturer Kwaku is visiting Accra and will deliver a presentation on how to use IDPAD to empower ourselves, followed by a Question & Answer session.

Admission: Free

To register, please visit www.AfricanHistoryPlus.eventbrite.com

The International Meeting on "International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024): Ten years to Act" was held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 19 September 2016. The Meeting was organized in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Frantz Fanon Foundation. It aimed to better understand the objectives and challenges of the Decade; to share national experiences to implement its Programme of activities; and to discuss strategies to improve synergies between key stakeholders.

More information: http://en.unesco.org/events/international-meeting-international-decade-people-african-descent-2015-2024-ten-years-act

For more information click here

Organized by the African Descent Society Vancouver

The African Descent Festival intends to celebrate the cultural diversity of people of African Descent within Vancouver, while recognizing and promoting attitudes of oneness among all ethnic groups and communities. The event focuses on activating public spaces and bringing a diverse range of programming to connect stakeholders working avidly for the long-term sustainability of this population.

This cultural event will allow Canadians, specifically Vancouverites to enjoy and learn about different cultures and countries from Africa, some of which have strong embedded grassroot initiatives and history within the city. As this is a city event, it is envisioned to be free for the attendees, with no admission fee, but donations are encouraged as well as sponsorship opportunities. The goal of the platform for this year is to establish itself, while using the input gained to build on subsequent years. With a focus on rejuvenating the spirit of Hogan's Alley, this platform will work with a wide range of city groups, main street businesses, and at large Vancouver organizations to bring awareness to Vancouver’s prominent and growing African community.

For more information, please see: http://www.africandescentfestival.com

Human rights in practice: Experiences of people of African descent in Germany

Organized by the High Council of the African Community in Germany, in cooperation with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency and Engagement Global (agency for development policy initiatives in Germany).

Date and time: 7 June 2016/ 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth; Glinkastrasse 24; 10117 Berlin

For the full Programme please click here

The meeting ended with the presentation of a publication by the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth endorsing the International Decade.

Organized by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), with the co-sponsorship of Black Women’s Blueprint and the support of UN Women and the UN Department of Public Information

Date and time: Friday, 29 April 2016/ 11.00 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.

Venue: United Nations Headquarters, New York

Programme

Opening remarks

• Maarit Kohonen Sheriff, Deputy Head, New York Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Shahrashoub Razavi, Chief, Research and Data, UN Women
• Farah Tanis, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Black Women’s Blueprint

Panelists

• Ahmed Reid, Member of the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent (Jamaica) 
• Nadine Neufville, Deputy Director for Grant Development and Management, Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice (United States)
• Mmatshilo Tumelo Motsei, Poet, writer and gender activist (South Africa) 
• Isabelle Boni-Claverie, Author, screenwriter, film director (Ivory Coast / France) 
• Janet Mock, Writer and transgender rights activist (United States) 
• Tracy Robinson, Former Commissioner, Inter-American Commission on Human Rights; Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, Mona (Jamaica)

Discussants

• Alicia Garza, Co-Founder, Black Lives Matter (United States)

Moderator

• Ejim Dike, Executive Director, US Human Rights Network

Watch the video recording of the event: http://webtv.un.org/

Background: The main objective of this event is to raise awareness and exchange views on the causes and manifestations of compounded discrimination faced by women of African descent, including when it comes to gender-based violence, access to healthcare and the overall protection of human rights, and to brainstorm and share good practices on the crucial role that women of African descent can play worldwide in countering discrimination.

During the event, women of African descent will share their experiences in working with their villages, neighbourhoods and countries to promote women’s rights in various aspects of personal, civil, social and political life. They will discuss sustainable models for transformation and reconciliation to bring about accountability and justice for women of African descent, and make recommendations for improving the lives of women of African descent, showcasing good practices, progress and success in working with their communities and countries.

The UN General Assembly will hold a meeting to mark the International Day on 18 March, at 11:00, in the General Assembly Hall.

Keynote speaker: Mr. Ahmed Reid (Jamaica), Member of the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent

Open to guests with UN pass.

This event will be webcast live at http://webtv.un.org.

More information on the International Day, please see: http://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/index.shtml

Organized by the Permanent Mission of Brazil and the United States Mission to the United Nations

23 March, 1:15 PM-2:30 PM

ECOSOC Chamber, Conference Building, United Nations Headquarters, New York

To see the full programme and RSVP, click here (PDF)

This event will be webcast live at http://webtv.un.org

Commemorative meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, at UN Headquarters in New York, on 29 March 2016

Theme: "Remember Slavery: Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its Roots"

Webcast live at http://webtv.un.org/.

Hashtag: #RememberSlavery

More information: http://www.un.org/en/events/slaveryremembranceday 

A two-day animation conference, marketplace and film festival in Kingston, Jamaica, presented by Jamaica’s Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, in partnership with the World Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank, showcasing Afrodescendant culture and storytelling through animated media.  

More information at: http://kingstoonfest.com

263 Macy, Teachers College, Columbia University, 525 W. 120th St, New York, NY 10025

Screening of three documentary films, followed by a panel discussion:

• South Carolina: Rights to Ancestral Land: a United Nations Television piece on the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of African slaves, and their struggle to hold on to their land and culture;
• Josephine Baker: Black Diva in a White Man's World: a film about one of the most famous and popular performing artists of the twentieth century.
• Sons of Benkos: a documentary about the evolution of Afro-Colombian music over generations and the presence of African culture in Colombia;

More information here: http://nyadiff.org/bhm-2016-adiff-presents-sons-of-benkos-josephine-baker/

The United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent is carrying out a fact-finding visit to the United States from 19 to 29 January 2016, at the invitation of the Government. The Group’s delegation will travel to Washington DC, Baltimore, Jackson (Mississippi), Chicago and New York City.

“We will gather first-hand information about the current human rights situation of African-Americans, and follow up on the recommendations to fight racism we made during our last visit to the country in 2010,” said human rights expert Mireille Fanon Mendes-France, who currently heads the expert panel.

The delegation, which also includes human rights experts Sabelo Gumedze and Ricardo A. Sunga III, will address current concerns, and assess progress made in combatting racial discrimination, Afrophobia, xenophobia, and protecting and promoting the human rights of African-Americans.

During its eleven-day visit, the experts will meet with Government officials at Federal, state and local levels, representatives of civil society organizations, as well as academics, practitioners and individual African-Americans. Following its visit, the Working Group will present a report containing its findings and recommendations to the UN Human Rights Council in September 2016.

A press conference to share the delegation’s preliminary findings will be held on Friday, 29 January at 12:00 noon at the UN Information Center in Washington DC. Access to the press conference is strictly limited to journalists. RSVPs are required to access the building.

To RSVPs for the Press Conference (media only!), please contact: Deborah Deyoung (deyoung@un.org / +1 202 331 8670) 

 

Organized by the United Nations Department of Public Information, with the co-sponsorship of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and the United States Mission to the United Nations.

When

The exhibit is on display from 11 to 22 January 2016 (the opening was on 12 January 2016).

Where

United Nations Headquarters, New York. First floor corridor between Secretariat and Conference Buildings

Speakers

• Ms. Cristina Gallach, Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information;
• Mr. Ivan Simonovic, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights;
• Ms. Marie-Paule Roudil, Director of the UNESCO Liaison Office in New York;
• Ambassador Sarah Mendelson, U.S. Representative on the Economic and Social Council at the United Nations, United States Mission to the United Nations

Learn about the exhibit on the International Decade for People of African Descent shown at UN Headquarters in New York, 11 - 22 January 2016 here

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Date and venue: The meeting will be held in Brasilia, from 3 to 4 December 2015

Background and purpose of the meeting: The International Decade for People of African Descent adopted by the General Assembly (2015 – 2024) is an opportunity to analyze and improve the human rights situation and well-being of one of the population groups most affected by racism and discrimination. By combating racial discrimination, the Decade will also strengthen democracy, the rule of law and equality in societies. In 2014, by its resolution 69/16, the General Assembly adopted a Programme of Activities, identifying the objectives and outlining specific actions to be taken within the three themes of the International Decade: recognition, justice and development.

As part of the awareness raising campaign for the International Decade, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights will organize five regional meetings. Such meetings will focus on trends, priorities and obstacles at the national and regional levels to effectively implement the Programme of Activities. The meetings will be also an occasion to exchange good practices.

The first meeting will be for the Latin American and Caribbean region. The discussion will be structured under the themes of the Decade: recognition, justice and development. The meeting will provide an opportunity to reflect on ways and means that governments from the region in partnership with equality bodies, national human rights institutions, civil society, development agencies and regional organizations, may pursue to integrate the provisions of the Programmes of Activities in their policies, programmes and strategies tailored for people of African descent.

Participants: The meeting would bring together Member States, United Nations specialized agencies and bodies, regional organizations, national human rights institutions, equality bodies and civil society representatives, particularly people of African descent from the region. Other Member States of the United Nations would be invited to attend as observers. Experts on the topics will be also invited to participate in the meeting.

Documentation and Working languages: The final report of the meeting will be issued as a United Nations document in all official languages.

Travel support for NGOs to attend the Regional Meeting

Application for the Participation of Civil Society in the Regional Meeting for the International Decade for People of African Descent

Topics for the draft agenda; and 20 November deadline for registration

Download the agenda

Information Note N° 4

See Documents

Date: Tuesday, 3 November 2015

Time: 1.30 p.m. - 3.30 p.m.

Location: ECOSOC Chamber, UN Secretariat Conference Building

Watch the archived webcast here

Programme

The event will be organised in the form of a panel discussion. Following opening remarks and presentations made by the panellists, the floor will be opened for a question and answer session with participants to exchange and express views in a frank and open dialogue.

Welcoming remarks

• Mr. Ivan Šimonović, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights

Video messages

• Mr. Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Ms. Michaelle Jean, Secretary-General, Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie

Keynote

• Mr. Harry Belafonte, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador
• Ms. Mireille Fanon-Mendes-France, Chairperson, Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
• Mr. Mutuma Ruteere, Special Rapporteur on Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance

Panel Discussion

• International perspective
  • Ms. Gay McDougall, Member of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
• Latin America and Caribbean perspective
  • Ms. Cheryl Sterling, Ph.D., Director, Black Studies Program, The City College of New York
  • Ms. Ramona Hernández, Ph.D., Director, CUNY Dominican Studies Institute & Professor of Sociology, The City College of New York
• North American perspective
  • Ms. Alicia Garza, Black Lives Matter
  • Mr. Steven W. Hawkins, Executive director of Amnesty International USA
  • Ms. Samaria Rice, mother of Tamir Rice who was fatally shot by police as a 12-year-old
  • Ms. Nicole C. Lee, Mothers against Police Brutality
• European perspective
  • Mr. Christian Ahlund, Chair of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance

Moderator: Mr. Bruce Knotts, Director of the Unitarian Universalist Association United Nations Office

Organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, with the co-sponsorship of the Unitarian Universalist Association, the United Nations Department of Public Information, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Black Lives Matter, and Amnesty International USA.

Date: Wednesday, 7 October 2015

Time: 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris

More details: Official Website

Date and time: Wednesday, 16 September 2015 | 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Location: ECOSOC Chamber at United Nations Headquarters, New York

This panel discussed the issue of self-representation as it relates to identity and power. As the experiences of the various panelists will show, visibility through self- representation is an important instrument in promoting the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights by people of African descent and in combating racism and racial discrimination. The panelists will present experiences about how individuals, communities and nations have used self-representation as a tool for social change and as a way of achieving political and cultural representation within societies.

Panelists:

• Celso Athayde, Founder of CUFA, Central Union of Favelas and CUFA Films, Brazil
• Mahen Bonetti, Director of the African Film Festival (AFF), New York
• Macdala Prévot, Filmmaker, Graduate of Ciné Institute, Haiti
• Lenora Fulani, Director, Operation Conversation: Cops & Kids; Co-Founder, All Stars Project, USA
• Raull Santiago, “Papo Reto Media Collective”, Complexo do Alemão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Thomas Allen Harris, CEO, Filmmaker and Transmedia Artist, Founder of Digital Diaspora Family Reunion and Director of "Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People"
• Fab 5 Freddy, Hip hop pioneer, Visual artist, Filmmaker, Chief Creative Consultant of The Africa Center, New York

Moderated by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Antonio de Aguiar Patriota

Co-sponsored by UNESCO, the UN Department of Public Information, United States Mission, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and The Africa Center

Watch the archived webcast.

Artists and the Memory of Slavery: Resistance, creative freedom and legacies.

Date: 4 - 11 September 2015

Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris

More details: Official Website

Black Philanthropy Month, held every August, was created in 2011 by the Pan-African Women's Philanthropy Network as an annual, global celebration of African-descent giving in recognition of the International Year for People of African Descent declared by the United Nations General Assembly. Since its founding, millions of people and organizations across the globe have celebrated every August as a month of celebration and renewal of giving to and by African-descent communities. In the spirit of the UN Decade for People of African Descent, Black Philanthropy Month encourages the global community to observe this month, and to celebrate the cultural richness and philanthropic spirit of African-descent communities year-round, recognizing the vital role generosity plays in ensuring a healthy, safe and prosperous community in which to live, work and flourish.

Roundtable Discussion: The General History of Africa.

Date: Friday, 10 July 2015

Location: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Time: Conference Room 5, United Nations Headquarters

Please RSVP by 6 July 2015 here

Unveiling of the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Download full programme (PDF format).

Date:25 March 2015

Location: United Nations Visitors Plaza

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

A comprehensive look at the status of women and girls of African descent for the next decade relative to the Beijing Declaration in the post-2015 development agenda

Date: 14 March 2015

Location: United Nations Church Center, NYC

A Forum for People of African Descent will start in 2015. We invite you to get involved in making it a successful platform to advance the promotion and protection of human rights.

The United Nations General Assembly decided, in resolution A/RES/69/16, to establish a Forum for People of African Descent to serve as a consultation mechanism during the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024). There is an emphasis on inclusive participation of all States Members of the United Nations, United Nations funds and programmes, specialized agencies, civil society organizations of people of African descent and all other relevant stakeholders.

The United Nations Human Rights Council, will decide further on the mandate and modalities of the Forum for People of African Descent.

In anticipation of the Human Rights Council discussion, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as Coordinator for the International Decade for People of African Descent, invites interested stakeholders, individuals, groups and organizations to submit information on their vision for the new Forum for People of African Descent.

In your submission it would be useful to include your views on the following aspects: What should be the aims and objectives of the Forum for People of African Descent, its thematic focus, the format and the agenda, how to ensure wide participation in the Forum and what should be its outcomes?

OHCHR will transmit all submissions received to Member States who will hold consultations on the Forum for People of African Descent during the 28th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

Procedure for submissions:

• Submissions should be sent in a written form and must include the contact details for the author(s) of the submission.
• OHCHR will receive submissions until Friday, 6 March 2015, midnight Geneva time.
• Submissions may be sent:

By email to: africandescent@ohchr.org

By post to: International Decade for People of African Descent, Anti-Racial Discrimination Section, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UNOG-OHCHR, CH-1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland

Due to resource and time constraints, OHCHR would be grateful if submissions could be clearly marked Forum for People of African Descent, be concise up to 1-page, in English, French and Spanish only.

Programme

2:50 - 3:05 p.m.	Drums prelude
3:05 p.m.	Musical introduction
3:10 p.m.	Remarks: H.E. Mr. Sam K. Kutesa, President of the 69th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Ms. Valerie Amos, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mr. Ivan Simonovic, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Video message from Ms. Irina Bokova, Director-General of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization Ms. Mireille Fanon-Mende, Chairperson, Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent Mr. Mohamed Siad Douale, Chairperson, Intergovernmental Working Group on the Effective Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action Dr. Barryl Biekman, Tiye International (civil society representative) Keynote speaker Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Principal and Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of the West Indies Statements H.E. Ms. Samantha Power, Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations and a member of President Obama’s Cabinet H.E. Mr. Tshililo Michael Masutha, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services of South Africa H.E. Ms. Luiza Bairros, Minister for the Promotion of Policies on Racial Equality of Brazil H.E. Mr. Paolo Gentiloni, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy H.E. Ms. Guillermina Mekuy Mba Obono, Minister of Culture and Tourism of Equatorial Guinea H.E. Ms. Carmen Ines Vasquez, Vice Minister of Participation and Equity, Ministry of the Interior of Colombia G77 and China African Group CARICOM EU
5:50 p.m.	Musical finale
6:00 p.m.	Closure of Launch H.E. Mr. Sam K. Kutesa

This event is not organized or sponsored by the United Nations
Afropean Bridges is an international workshop aims to open a discussion about the identity of African-Europeans and to address political, social and cultural issues related to the post-colonial relationship between European and African countries.
For more information, please visit www.afropeanbridges.org/2020-2/