Thousands of children and youth march against racism
Durres, Albania - Thousands of school students danced, marched, painted and sang against racism on March 21, 2013 during festivities to recognize the International Day against Racism.
The activities started at 11 a.m. in the town of Durres, where, for the first time in history, there was such a large representation of children and youth. The initiative came mainly from civil society (World Vision, UNDP, Peace Corps, “Today for the Future", CSDS,) but was also supported by the city hall and schools of Durres.
"We thought to develop a common activity, which included all stakeholders, partners and associates, in order to be passed unanimously efforts against discrimination in all its forms," said the organizers.The initiative joined: the Mayor of Durres, Vangjush Dako; Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Ms. Irma Barak; Ombudsman, Mr. Igli Totozani, and Director of Regional Education Directorate in Durres, Mr. Filip Gjonci. Everyone joined their voices publicly against allforms of discrimination and racism.
After their greetings, well known Albanian singers, Egzona Ademi and Marsona Tace, sang the song, “Everyday people", as students jumped the prepared choreography, in the main boulevard of the city. Violence against children, the violated rights of women, the elderly, persons with disabilities, ethnic and cultural minorities as well as the rights of immigrants and orphansall had a voice during the March 21activites
The events of the day started withthe marching of high school students, originatingfrom three different points of Durres. The students marched with placards filled with messages against racism. Each group walked independently meeting up in front of the Aleksander Moisiu Palace of Culture.
After that, a massive dance from high school students (winners of various dance competitions) took place.After the dance, the participants attended the exhibition of paintings and photos on the main boulevard. The paintings and photos on display showed images of different social groups, with a common message that the differencesare an important part of life and they should be respected. The artwas created by elementary schools students, children with development problems andby those with different abilities. The exhibition remained open to the public throughout the day.
“The rain did not stop the youth to be part of this activity and to raise their voices against this issue,” says Brixhida Xheka, World Vision programme manager. “I was touched by their commitment and their messages. I hope that their voice will bring a change in our society.”
As part of this awareness campaign against discrimination, the civil society also lobbied online through a page on Facebook.
The event was part of European Week Against Racism, 2013. Throughout Europe, more than 100,000 people in 48 countries marched and came together to appreciate diversity and combat racism.