African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD)’s Post

Recognition. Development. Justice. For ten years, these pillars guided global efforts to address the systemic racism and discrimination faced by people of African descent. Now, with the start of a second International Decade for People of African Descent, the UN is continuing to tackle the persistent injustices rooted in enslavement, colonialism, and structural racism. The challenges remain stark. Limited opportunities. Deep inequality. Systemic denial of basic rights. This Decade is a chance to focus global attention, demand accountability, and drive real progress toward a world where people of African descent are not just recognized but empowered to thrive. #OurRightsOurFuture, right now

🔍 Pioneering Approach to Anti-Racism: National Symposium Unifies Research and Action The inaugural National Symposium Unifying Anti-Racist Research and Action is set to bring together 300 participants in Magandjin (Brisbane), marking a critical moment in Australia's fight against racism. Led by Professor Chelsea Watego and Dr David Singh from QUT Carumba Institute, this unique event aims to: - Move beyond discussing whether racism exists - Spotlight Indigenous knowledge - Develop strategic approaches to combating racial violence - Create a collaborative space for academics, activists, and practitioners Key Insights: - Challenging the National Anti-Racism Framework's current approach - Emphasising structural understanding of racism - Honouring ongoing Indigenous resistance How can we transform conversations about racism into meaningful action? #AntiRacism #SocialJustice #AustralianResearch #Equity

Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we honour and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous communities. At the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region, we recognize that gender-based violence disproportionately affects Indigenous women and girls due to systems of oppression such as racism and colonization. We know that ending gender-based violence cannot be achieved without decolonization and the dismantling of systemic oppression. Decolonization means restoring the rights, lands, and cultural practices of Indigenous peoples and addressing the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization. Only through these efforts can we create a world free from harm, for everyone. Join us in standing with Indigenous communities today and every day. Together, we can build a future rooted in justice and equity. #NationalIndigenousPeoplesDay #EndGenderBasedViolence #Decolonization #SupportSurvivors

Enjoyed penning this contribution on behalf of CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation to the #GlobalNation #2024GlobalSolidarityReport . Thank you Anna Hope Hassan Damluji 'Corrupt autocrats are undermining the legitimate aspirations of young people and future generations by clinging to power through repression and divisive politics....In this scenario, it’s vital that concerned citizens and justice-oriented civil society organisations can act. History shows us that resolute protest movements and creative voluntary efforts can usher in significant transformations, even within a short period of time....Despite the many constraints, success stories demonstrate that global solidarity across civil society is still alive and well. A youthful generation increasingly connected by online activism is emerging to lead today’s impressive intersectional civic movements, demanding progress on contemporary scourges such as war crimes, genocide, economic inequality, gender based violence and climate change. https://lnkd.in/gdE5veqE

🌟 I presented Шанса за Центар and my work as a municipal council member at the NDI Event: Participatory and Deliberative Democracy on Building inclusive democracy and mainstreaming participation 🌟 Profound reminder of how inclusive participation strengthens our democratic fabric. We are living backsliding in democracy on central level in many countries so resilience on local level and protecting democratic values is of outmost importance! We discussed *Mainstreaming Participation: Building Ecosystems of Democratic Innovation*. It was an inspiring discussion where we shared and exchanged ideas on democracy and the critical importance of empowering citizens from various groups, age, backgrounds, vulnerability or marginalized to actively participate in decision-making processes. Many benefits of diverse ecosystems of Democratic Innovation as interconnected processes and dynamic interactions can foster trust, dialogue, justice, and equality. @шансазацентар is committed to supporting democratic processes at local level in our city and we are pleased to share these values and experiences. Always excited to strengthen our relationships with like-minded organizations and passionate individuals from around the world. Here's to building a more inclusive and participatory democracy together! ✊🌍 #NDI #PeoplePowered #ndipddworkshopwarsaw #DemocraticInnovation #Empowerment #Inclusion #Participation #Ecosystem #Justice #Equality

"If we want to understand why nature has been subjected to so much exploitation, we need to understand that there are relationships of inequality, domination and power operating in society that allowed that to happen, that the systems of dominance that allow for the exploitation of nature are the same systems that can be seen in the exploitation of women." - Dr Nontando Hadebe, Side by Side International Coordinator ACT Alliance, as a member of the International Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development #PaRD, collaborated in this short film to amplify why local partners, religious actors, and women in all their diversity can be powerful agents of change in climate-related planning, policymaking, and implementation. Read more about why climate action needs women, religious actors and local partners: https://lnkd.in/ewm-a24b #ClimateJustice #FaithInGenderJustice #SDG5 #TheRoad2Equality #Partnership #SidebySide #ResourceSpotlight

As we commemorate June 16th 2024, may we all reflect on the significance of this day and commit to making a tangible difference in the ongoing struggle for liberation and equality. Let us approach this year differently by becoming more aware of our roles and actively participating in the continuous effort to liberate our minds. This, in turn, will help us authentically honour the legacy of those who fought before us and continue to push for a more just and equitable world. #CommemorateJune16 #LiberateYourMind

Racism, Hatred, and Self-Interest: Major Threats to Global Peace In today's interconnected world, achieving peace remains a critical goal, but it is threatened by racism, hatred, and the prioritization of self-interest over justice. These issues create deep divisions and conflict, undermining efforts to build harmonious societies. Racism Racism fosters division and inequality, perpetuating cycles of resentment and violence. Combating racism requires acknowledging historical injustices and dismantling discriminatory systems. Education, awareness, and inclusive policies are essential for fostering understanding and empathy among diverse communities. Hatred Hatred, fueled by ignorance and fear, manifests as xenophobia, religious intolerance, and sectarian violence. Promoting dialogue and intercultural exchanges can break down prejudices and build trust. Celebrating our shared humanity can lay the foundation for lasting peace. Self-Interest Over Justice Prioritizing self-interest leads to exploitation, oppression, and conflict. Achieving peace requires a shift towards justice and equity, ensuring all individuals have access to their fundamental rights. International cooperation and fair practices are crucial for addressing the root causes of injustice. A Call to Action Addressing these challenges requires collective effort. As professionals, we have the power to advocate for policies that promote equality and justice. By supporting initiatives that bridge divides, we can create a more peaceful world where racism, hatred, and self-interest no longer hinder justice and harmony. Let's commit to this journey, recognizing that true success lies in the well-being and dignity of all people. #peace #conflict #justice #equity

America: The Ongoing Experiment of Power and Inequality Join us as we explore America's ongoing experiment, delving into multicultural dynamics, power shifts, and the stark economic inequalities that separate politicians from everyday citizens. This thought-provoking discussion sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for a truly inclusive society. #AmericaExperiment #Multiculturalism #PowerDynamics #EconomicInequality #PoliticalDiscourse #SocialJustice #CivicEngagement #InclusiveSociety #HistoryOfAmerica #FutureOfAmerica

On Indigenous Peoples' Day, it's crucial to reflect on the history, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous communities. It’s also an important reminder that equity - whether in healthcare, education, or environmental justice - remains a vital issue for these populations. Indigenous communities have historically faced systemic barriers, and addressing these inequities is essential to creating a more inclusive and just society. As we honor Indigenous resilience and wisdom, let’s commit to supporting policies and initiatives that drive equity and justice for all. #IndigenousPeoplesDay #Equity #Justice