Race Relations Month
Saskatoon City Council has proclaimed March Race Relations Month every year since 1990. The month includes the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (March 21) which the City marks with the presentation of the annual Living in Harmony Awards.
The date of March 21 was chosen following the Sharpeville Massacre on March 21, 1960. On this day, peaceful demonstrators were protesting the Apartheid ‘pass laws’ which were used to segregate and control black South African citizens. The police response was to open fire on the peaceful gathering, killing many and wounding many more.
Many ongoing policies continue to hide ongoing discrimination against racially marginalized people in Canada. Race Relations Month is a time to remember that our efforts to eliminate racial discrimination must continue all year long.
Several activities are planned for the month of March in recognition of cultural diversity and race relations.
2023 Race Relations Month Calendar
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March 1, 2023 |
Proclamation & Flag Raising |
The start of Race Relations Month will be marked by a Proclamation in Council Chamber (1:30 to 2:00 pm) followed by a Flag Raising in Civic Square (area beside City Hall off 23rd Street East). The Cultural Diversity & Race Relations Flag remains raised March 1-7. |
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March 3, 2023 |
Living in Harmony Awards Nomination Deadline |
This is the last day to submit a nomination for an individual, organization, student, class, or school for contributing to the elimination of racial discrimination. |
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March 21, 2023 |
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination / Presentation of Living in Harmony Awards |
To mark this date, members of the City's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee announce the winners of the annual Living in Harmony Awards. These awards recognize local organizations, individuals, and students for their efforts in combatting racism. A PSA announcing the winners will be posted on the Living in Harmony Awards webpage. |
2022 Proclamation Video
In order to recognize the occasion while keeping everyone safe, the City released a video in lieu of hosting an in-person proclamation or opening ceremony event. The proclamation video includes remarks from:
- His Worship, Mayor Charlie Clark
- Namarta Kochar, Chair of the City's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The City's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (originally called the Race Relations Committee) was established in 1989. This committee is one way the City of Saskatoon demonstrates its commitment to the citizens of Saskatoon to create an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed, respected, and can live without facing racism or discrimination.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee presents Living in Harmony Awards to recognize local organizations, individuals, and students for their efforts in promoting intercultural harmony. The winners are announced annually in the month of March.