The #iRespectU campaign
#iRespectU is a social media awareness campaign for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion by young people for young people in the Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS), hosted by UNESCO's Social and Human Sciences sector.
UNESCO in the Caribbean aims at amplifying youth voices across the sub-region by providing a platform for Caribbean youth to express their views and experiences about issues of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion under the theme #iRespectU. The actions of young change-makers in the English and Dutch Speaking Caribbean sub-region will be highlighted via an Instagram takeover hosted on @unesco_caribbean.
The campaign will also take into consideration how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted issues linked to inclusion and opportunities in the sub-region. #iRespectU promotes an environment of peace and mutual understanding through non-violent communication, based on the principle of "do no harm".
Youth Engagement in Caribbean SIDS
At 1.2 billion strong, youth represent 1 out of every 6 people worldwide. In the Caribbean Community, approximately 63 per cent of the population is under the age of 30. The United Nations Agenda 2030 positions youth as critical agents of change and full-fledged partners in the United Nations work to build a better world for all, as indicated in the UN Youth Strategy Youth 2030.
- UNESCO advances youth rights by recognizing youth as partners and advocating for their meaningful participation and inclusion in decision-making. UNESCO plays a leading role in transforming its social media into an inclusive platform with the vision of leaving no one behind.
- UNESCO advocates for human rights and fosters the meaningful inclusion and participation of women, indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ people in all aspects of social, economic and political life.
- UNESCO promotes a culture of non-violence, resilience and peace, through mutual understanding and intercultural dialogue in a culturally diverse and pluralistic Caribbean sub-region.
- UNESCO plays a leading role in transforming its social media into an inclusive platform with the vision of leaving no one behind.
Tell us about your school or community project, the work of your organization or as an individual and share your story on your engagement aimed at tackling inequalities, promoting diversity and fostering more peaceful and inclusive communities.
While we adopt an inclusive approach by making use of barrier free language such as sign language, gender-neutral language and the capitalization of hashtags for language machines, we also want to learn from YOU and share your message to make social media more inclusive.
What is your say on Equality, Diversity & Inclusion?
Share your story on your IG with the #iRespectU hashtag and tag us on Instagram @unesco_caribbean.