Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day History

Human Rights Day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the fundamental rights that all human beings are entitled to, irrespective of their race, nationality, gender, or any other defining characteristics. The day aims to raise public awareness about the importance of human rights and acknowledge the ongoing efforts to fight for these rights across the globe. By honouring the efforts of those who work tirelessly to advance human rights, the observance seeks to reaffirm the world's commitment to ensuring that every human being lives a life of dignity, justice, and freedom.

In South Africa, Human Rights Day holds a special significance as it is a stark reminder of the harrowing past the nation has emerged from and its transformative journey towards achieving equality and justice for all its citizens. Although the United Nations recognizes Human Rights Day as December 10th, South Africa has a particular holiday date. It is March 21st, the day that commemorates the Sharpeville Massacre, which took place on March 21st, 1960, when the apartheid regime's security forces fired upon a peaceful protest, resulting in the death of 69 unarmed protestors and injuring over 180 people. The tragic event accelerated the international community's response to South Africa's oppressive apartheid policies. It prompted the adoption of the United Nations Resolution 134, which condemned apartheid and reaffirmed the importance of universal human rights.

To observe Human Rights Day in South Africa, the government and various organizations hold events and educational programs to promote awareness and understanding of human rights issues in the country. The observance allows South Africans to acknowledge the progress made in the fight against discrimination and injustice while emphasizing the collective responsibility to ensure the continual promotion and protection of human rights for all. It provides a vital opportunity for reflection and continued growth as a nation.

Human Rights Day facts

• The UN's Declaration of Human Rights was one of their first declarations. It was organized after the atrocities of World War II were brought to light.
• Over the past decade, armed conflict around the world has killed 2 million children, disabled another 4-5 million, and left 12 million homeless, and orphaned another million.
• The notion of human rights gained mainstream recognition after World War II because of the Holocaust. The international community decided that such atrocities should never happen again.
• South Africa is the first country in Africa and the fifth worldwide to legalize same-sex marriage, with the Civil Union Act coming into effect in 2006. Despite legal protections, ongoing challenges include societal discrimination, hate crimes, and limited access to health care services for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Despite significant progress since the end of apartheid, South Africa remains one of the most unequal countries in the world in terms of income distribution. Poverty and unemployment disproportionately affect black South Africans, who continue to suffer the legacy of apartheid-era policies.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Human Rights Day

Top things to do in South Africa for Human Rights Day

• Get involved with a local human rights organization.
• Watch a documentary about human rights issues and violations. Some recommendations: Invisible Children (2006), Girl Rising(2013) and Nefarious (2011).
• Offer your time and skills by volunteering for local human rights organizations. You can assist with various activities, including community outreach, legal aid clinics, or awareness campaigns.
• Engage in constructive dialogue with friends, family, and colleagues about human rights. Encourage conversations about equality, social justice, and the importance of respecting human rights for all individuals.