August 31 marks the International Day for People of African Descent. It is a day to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of people of African descent around the world while recommitting to the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination.
This year's observance comes as the United Nations has proclaimed a Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034). The initiative follows a resolution introduced on November 20, 2024, by Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), calling for renewed global action to combat racism and foster inclusion.
This year's observance comes as the United Nations has proclaimed a Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034). The initiative follows a resolution introduced on November 20, 2024, by Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), calling for renewed global action to combat racism and foster inclusion.
"The United Nations' proclamation of a second Decade for People of African Descent is a monumental step toward justice and equity," said Congressman Johnson. "It reflects our shared responsibility to address systemic inequities and uplift the contributions of people of African descent globally. I am proud to lead this effort and grateful for the international community's support."
The second Decade builds on progress from the first (2015-2024), which focused on recognition, justice, and development. By extending this commitment, the UN and its member states reaffirm that advancing racial equity and dismantling systemic discrimination requires sustained, long-term action.
For UNA-Atlanta, this observance is more than symbolic. It reflects our mission to support the United Nations' global goals while promoting inclusion and justice here in our own community. The Decade ahead offers opportunities to strengthen advocacy, expand education, and highlight the essential cultural, social, and economic contributions of people of African descent.
We invite our members, partners, and community to join us in celebrating this important day and to continue working toward a world where dignity, equality, and justice are not aspirations but realities.
Learn more about the International Day for People of African Descent and the UN's initiatives.
For UNA-Atlanta, this observance is more than symbolic. It reflects our mission to support the United Nations' global goals while promoting inclusion and justice here in our own community. The Decade ahead offers opportunities to strengthen advocacy, expand education, and highlight the essential cultural, social, and economic contributions of people of African descent.
We invite our members, partners, and community to join us in celebrating this important day and to continue working toward a world where dignity, equality, and justice are not aspirations but realities.
Learn more about the International Day for People of African Descent and the UN's initiatives.
