This site is dedicated to October 17th, the World Day to Overcome Extreme Poverty, officially recognised by the United Nations in 1992. The day was first celebrated in 1987 by thousands of participants at the Human Rights Plaza in Paris, France.

The October 17th message is: "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." (F. Joseph Wresinski).

Since its creation, October 17th has been a day for those living in extreme poverty to speak out and for all citizens to consider how they can contribute to the eradication of extreme poverty.

2004 is also the United Nations International Year to Commemorate the Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition. For slaves, like for people living in extreme poverty Human rights are violated.

In 1987, Father Joseph Wresinski visited Gorée Island, a location infamous in the history of slavery. He wrote:

"Today, millions of men, women and children say no to extreme poverty and shame because the slaves of yesterday avowed in their hearts that they were human beings. Over the course of three centuries many died so that we may not forget."
Father Joseph Wresinski, November 27th, 1987
Founder of the International Movement ATD Fourth World

Some links about the struggle against slavery and its abolition.:

• Visit the International Year to Commemorate the Struggle Against Slavery and its Abolition website for information on the Year (Unesco)
• Unesco Web site "Poverty is a violation of Human Rights"
• The House of Slave, virtual visit of Goree Island and text above, linking extreme poverty and abolition of slavery.

Send your e-mail to the October 17 Committee © Fourth World Publications 2004