October 17 is the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty. It has been commemorated since 1987, the year when, at the call of Joseph Wresinski, thousands of people from all walks of life gathered at the Plaza of Liberties and Human Rights in Paris, to affirm that:

“Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty,
human rights are violated. To come together to ensure that
these rights be respected is our solemn duty.”

 

In 2020 and 2021, our world has been shaken by the global health crisis of COVID-19, which has amplified inequalities and worsened the situation of people living in poverty. They are as much victims of environmental destruction as they are often forgotten by states and threatened to be left behind from generation to generation. Excluded from sustainable development, they are often criticized for taking actions for their survival which are seen as unsustainable.

Words for October 17th 2021

Universal Prayer for Overcoming Extreme Poverty