On 16 December 2020, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 75/170, proclaiming 31 August each year as the International Day for People of African Descent, with the first official observance held in 2021. The day builds on the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), themed "Recognition, Justice and Development." The day celebrates the rich cultural diversity and historical and contemporary contributions of people of African descent, who number more than 200 million in the Americas alone, alongside millions more across Europe and elsewhere as a legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. It also aims to promote full recognition of their human rights and to confront the racial discrimination and structural racism they continue to face in education, employment, criminal justice and healthcare. The day is marked through cultural events showcasing the art, music and literature of people of African descent, discussions on racial justice issues, and educational initiatives highlighting their history and contributions to human civilization.