Race Relations Day 2026: Whakarongo Kia Mārama
The Human Rights Commission has launched this year’s Race Relations Day, which will be observed on 21 March 2026, with the theme “Whakarongo Kia Mārama – Listen to Understand.”
In the announcement of this year’s theme, the Bahá’í community is acknowledged for its longstanding contribution to conversations around race unity and understanding in Aotearoa. The launch material also notes the historical role played by Bahá’ís in the establishment and development of Race Unity Day activities over many years.
The Human Rights Commission is encouraging communities across the country to take part in regional Race Relations Day events, creating opportunities for people to listen to one another’s experiences and perspectives and to engage constructively with issues affecting race relations in Aotearoa today.
Friends amongst the Bahá’í community may wish to consider attending any of the Race Relations Day events, or attending regional heats of the upcoming Race Unity Speech Awards based on the same theme. Friends may also wish to explore hosting devotional gatherings, study circles, or community spaces on this theme, creating opportunities for meaningful conversations that foster greater understanding and unity.
More information about Race Relations Day 2026 can be found here: https://tikatangata.org.nz/news/race-relations-day-2026-whakarongo-kia-marama
