Tbilisi, Georgia - Trainings about “Stop Racism – Take an Action” were held for the pupils of 7th to 11th grades in public school № 136 and gymnasium on March 19-23 by UPF-Georgia in partnership with the Ivorian Association in Georgia.
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Events were organized to raise awareness about the roots of racism and support the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21, which was established by the UN in 1966. Pupils learned about the feelings of people who are discriminated against as well as African culture and history. This approach is based on the understanding that forming bonds of heart is the best weapon against racism.
On March 25, the United Nations office in Tbilisi sponsored a Special Interracial Football Tournament conducted by UPF in partnership with the Ivorian Association in Georgia and the NGO “Georgia for help of refugees.” Four teams of different races displayed fair play, mutual honesty, and a respectful attitude during competitions. The Ivorian team practiced the best teamwork and won the first prize. There were many excited observers and fans. Young children asked to play a symbolic match against their new African friends and won the match.
After the games, competitors participated in discussions on the topic “Future without racism” and shared their thoughts about the meaning of peace, roots of racism, and ways to eliminate it. African and Georgian songs and dances were performed in a warm, loving family atmosphere. There were no barriers between the participants, and everybody celebrated their fellowship and enjoyed snacks and cakes.