On 17 October 1987, Joseph Wresinski, founder of ATD Fourth World, inaugurated a commemorative stone on the Plaza of Human Rights and Liberties, Trocadero, Paris bearing the following inscription:
On 17 October 1987, defenders of human and civil rights from around the world gathered on this plaza. They paid tribute to the victims of hunger, ignorance, and violence. They affirmed their conviction that extreme poverty is not inevitable. They proclaimed their solidarity with those who, across the world, strive to eradicate it.
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.” Joseph Wresinski
Speaking before the 100,000 people present, Joseph Wresinski honoured the poorest of all times through his solemn address “I bear witness”.
This event on 17 October 1987 in Paris led to the creation of the World Day to overcome Extreme Poverty, and its official recognition by the United Nation in 1992 as the UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.