It's Human Rights Day! We explain the history and significance of 21 March

Human Rights Day, observed annually in South Africa on 21 March, serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured to achieve democracy in the country.

This significant date is deeply intertwined with the tragic Sharpeville massacre, which exposed the world to the deliberate human rights violations perpetrated by the apartheid regime.

On 21 March 1960, police shot and killed 69 people who were peacefully protesting against Pass laws.

Human rights, inherent to all people by virtue of their humanity, are at the core of this commemorative day.

It serves to reaffirm our commitment to the principles outlined in the Bill of Rights within our Constitution. 

Everybody in South Africa has the right to dignity, equality, freedom of movement and residence, language and culture, and the right to life.

It is our responsibility to uphold these rights at home, at work, or wherever we find ourselves in our cruel, crazy, beautiful country.