The Organization of American States (OAS), is this week, celebrating the Fourth Annual Inter-American Week for People of African Descent in the Americas.

The OAS Assistant Secretary General, His Excellency Nestor Mendez, underscores the importance of observing the annual event with activities that foster greater awareness and respect for the heritage and culture of people of African descent and their contribution to the development of society.

“The observance was established by the member states of the OAS in February 2018 to remember the legacy of slavery and the slave trade to be continually mindful of their consequences on the lives of Afro-descendants; and to foster greater awareness and respect for the diversity of the heritage and culture of people of African descent and their contribution to the development of society. The immense positive contribution that people of African descent have had on the socio-economic, political and cultural spheres in our societies is undeniable,” Secretary General Mendez said.

The observance is being held under the theme “Ending Slavery’s Legacy of Racism: The Imperative for Strengthening Justice and Resilience in Afro-Descendant Communities in the Americas in the Face Of COVID-19.”
He continued: “The theme highlights the ongoing struggle to eradicate the vestiges of structural racism which permeate our societies and the fundamental need for the implementation of measures to address its root causes and engender a more just society.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has glaringly unmasked these social inequities where in some cases Afro-descendants are more likely to die from COVID-19 more than any other racial group—primarily due to disparities in economic inequality, overcrowded housing, environmental risks, and limited access to healthcare. The virus of racism must be confronted and eradicated.”

Activities commemorating the observance includes a virtual exhibition, workshops and panel discussions.