While on the one hand the world becomes more “united” thanks to the development of technology and communications, on the other hand the fear of differences and the consequent discrimination remain widely spread. Gender, nationality, sexual orientation, and religion are only few of the countless pretexts of discrimination. Refugees fleeing Syria © Bryan Denton for The New York Times For instance, only in four countries out of ten the number of girls attending secondary schools is equal to that of boys, while 75 countries have laws criminalising relationships between people of the same sex. In order to promote diversity and teach the respect towards differences, Zero Discrimination Day is celebrated on 1 March, established by the United Nations. Aiming at enhancing individuality and the peculiar differences characterising each of us, the 2016 theme is Stand Out and encourages everyone to stand for fair and just societies. “When the most marginalized and vulnerable face discrimination and abuse, all of us are diminished,” said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. “The United Nations is strongly committed to upholding human rights and dignity for all.” Workers with Down’s Syndrom In occasion of Zero Discrimination Day, people are encouraged to enhance and embrace diversity and recognise people’s different talents and competences enriching and strengthening communities. Diversity is a precious resource and accepting and embracing it only lead to more benefits for our society. Drawing made by Ricardo Cavolo in occasion of Zero Discrimination Day The hashtag to be used throughout the day is #ZeroDiscrimination. People can post on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram their images, drawings, music, and videos aimed at depicting their own story on overcoming discrimination. Many artists, designers, and illustrators realised original works on the issue.
