Anti Racism Week 2026, convened by the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, invites you to join
us for this week, taking place from March 14-21. This week, observed during Human Rights
Month, culminates on Human Rights Day and the United Nations’ International Day for the
Elimination of Racial Discrimination. As part of Anti-Racism Week activities, the Foundation
also visits Sharpeville to honour the memory of those who lost their lives in the Sharpeville
Massacre and reflect on its significance in the ongoing struggle against racism and injustice.
The theme for 2026 is “Inclusive Always, Racism Never”
The theme for 2026, centres on our shared responsibility to build communities where every
person feels seen, valued, and a true sense of belonging. It is a call to move beyond simply
rejecting racism, and to actively cultivate inclusion in our homes, schools, workplaces, faith
spaces, and public institutions.
This theme recognises that racism remains deeply entrenched in our society, shaping lived
experiences and limiting opportunities for many. Confronting it requires more than
awareness; it demands sustained dialogue, courageous reflection, and collective action to
transform the systems and attitudes that exclude.
Anti-Racism Week therefore invites all South Africans to come together as co-builders of a
more just and inclusive society. It is a moment to reflect on how far we have come, to
acknowledge the work still ahead, and to commit ourselves to nurturing communities where
dignity is protected, diversity is celebrated, and everyone truly belongs.
What can you do during Anti-Racism Week 2025?
We encourage South Africans to actively participate in this initiative by hosting or supporting
events that promote anti-racism. Activations can be as simple as a discussion or as
elaborate as a public campaign. Share your plans with us so that we can amplify your efforts
and connect you with available resources.
Here are a few ways to get involved:
In workplaces: Host diversity and inclusion workshops or lunchtime discussions
addressing racism and institutional inequities.
In schools: Hold assemblies focused on racial equality, engage learners in projects
on the history of racism, or introduce anti-racism policies. To sign your school up for
an anti-racism assembly, click here.
In communities: Organise public dialogues, film screenings with discussions, or
community campaigns against racism.
In faith-based spaces: Deliver sermons or hold gatherings emphasizing unity, care,
and anti-racist values.
In sports: Dedicate matches to raising awareness about anti-racism and display
messages of solidarity prominently at games.
On social media: Share your commitment using #UniteForInclusion and #ActAgainstRacism. Pledge to act against racism by tagging @kathradafound in your posts.
Join us in taking a stand against racism and ensuring that unity and equality remain at the
core of our society. For more information, resources, or partnerships, contact us at 011 854
7037 or via email on rethabile@kathradafoundation.org
Schedule of events for Anti-Racism Week
- Saturday, 14 March: National Essay Writing Competition Against Racism Awards
- Sunday, 15 March: Annual Sharpeville Commemorative Event
- Monday, 16 March: ARW ASSEMBLIES
- Tuesday, 17 March: ARW ASSEMBLIES
- Wednesday, 18 March: Webinar: Identity and Belonging in a Post-Apartheid Non-Racial South Africa and ARW ASSEMBLIES
- Thursday, 19 March: Skin We Are in Theatre production @ Windybrow Theatre
- Saturday, 21 March: Webinar: Confronting Division – Global Leadership in an Era of Rising Polarisation
