Human Rights Month

Annually March 21, South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day to honour the sacrifices and struggle of those who fought against the apartheid government during the liberation struggle for freedom, dignity and equality.

The fateful day is grounded in the Sharpeville Massacre which took place on 21 March 1960, where a recorded number of 69 people were shot and killed by the apartheid forces in a peaceful protest against pass laws. The massacre marked a turning point in the anti-apartheid movement, galvanizing resistance and leading to increased international pressure against the apartheid regime.

Human rights day further serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting and protecting Human rights, acknowledging the injustices and atrocities committed during the apartheid era and further to build a democratic society that is based on the values of equality, justice and human dignity.

This year’s Human Right month was commemorated under the theme, “Deepening a culture of social justice and human rights”, with the national commemoration hosted in Kariega at the home of legends – Eastern Cape.

The month coincided with the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the historic document, the Freedom Charter, which proclaims that “South Africa belongs to all who live in it” and that “All shall be equal before the law”. The Freedom Charter is the foundation on which our world acclaimed Constitution was drafted and its ten clauses which cover Human rights and dignity, equality before the law and access to land and wealth ownership among others, it was precursor to South Africa’s revered and respected constitution.

The NHC commemorated Human rights month through a number of initiatives through collaborations with a range of stakeholders. The Sharpeville Massacre commemoration led by the Gauteng Provincial Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in Sharpeville, Sedibeng saw Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Mayor of Sedibeng District, Ms Lerato Maloka, Interfaith ministries leaders and political leaders. Scores of community members including political parties, various ministries and leaders of government as well as learners were in attendance to honour the heroes and heroines.

A wreath laying ceremony was conducted at each and every site of the Sharpeville Massacre in honour of the patriots that fought for our freedom we all enjoy today.

Dr Thabo Manetsi, CEO of the NHC, announced that the Sharpeville Massacre inclusive of the grave site and the monument they all form part of the Huan Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation component of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites declared as a World Heritage Site at the 2024 World Heritage Convention in India.

Chairperson of the Council urged the community of Sedibeng to take ownership of the World Heritage Sites part of the massacre which have a potential in developing and turning around the economic development of Vaal.

The NHC concluded that more work is still required together with the relevant stakeholders, in order to ensure the safeguarding of these sites for future generations.