1 - 31 March
South Africa will commemorate Human Rights Month in March under the theme: “Bill of Rights at 30: Making Human Dignity Real.” South Africa’s Human Rights Month is rooted in the tragic events of the Sharpeville massacre on 21 March 1960, where the apartheid regime killed 69 peaceful protestors, exposing the state's grave human rights violations.
At the time, systemic inequalities were entrenched through oppressive laws such as the pass laws and the Group Areas Act. The collective struggle, courageous actions, and sacrifices of leaders like former President Nelson Mandela and Robert Sobukwe, alongside other countless activists, paved the way for a constitutional democracy built on justice, equality, and human dignity.
During this month, we honour the struggle stalwarts whose courage and sacrifices secured our freedom. This year’s Human Right Month coincides with the commemoration of 30 years of the adoption of The Constitution. The celebration of The Constitution’s 30th anniversary happens as the same time with the seventh democratic local government elections which will be held later this year, a testament to the resilience and maturity of our democracy.
