The day, commemorated annually on March 21, marks the tragic events of 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa, where 69 people were killed during a peaceful protest against apartheid "pass laws" – the law that required non-white people to carry documents authorising their presence in restricted areas.

The theme this year is the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

In Cardiff, the Race Equality Taskforce has been at the forefront of promoting racial equality and inclusion. Established in July 2020, the taskforce has worked to identify and implement practical solutions to improve race equality across the city, focussing on key areas such as employment, education, health, and criminal justice.

Last year, the Council signed up to UNISON’s anti-racism charter which aims to tackle racism in the public sector,  committing to continue its efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within its workforce and beyond.

By implementing diversity recruitment initiatives, providing training on unconscious bias, raising awareness about and celebrating colleagues’ different cultures, the authority is aiming to create a more inclusive and representative local government.

Cabinet Member for Public Health and Equalities, Cllr Julie Sangani said: “Diversity and cohesion are essential in today's world and Cardiff is a wonderfully diverse city, where there is no place for discrimination of any sort.

“Today is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that Cardiff is a city where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive, but also to acknowledge that there remains a pressing need for greater diversity in local government, to ensure that our decision-makers are better equipped to address the unique needs and aspirations of all of our communities.”

Leader of Cardiff Council, Cllr Huw Thomas said: “Signing the UNISON anti-racism charter last year demonstrated our unwavering commitment to combating racial discrimination. Our core commitment to be ‘Stronger, Fairer, Greener’ underlines our aim to foster an inclusive and equitable city, that celebrates its diversity and values every citizen.”