20 March 2006
Preparations are at an advanced stage to host Gauteng's 2006 Human Rights
Day commemorations on 21 March 2006. The event is organised jointly by the
Gauteng Provincial Government and Sedibeng District Municipality to remember
and honour those who lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.
This year's commemorations are held under the theme "10 Years of a
Democratic Constitution" as we celebrate the contribution of those who died on
that day in a fight for human rights now enshrined in our Constitution.
The commemorations include a series of build-up activities aimed at
educating the youth on the importance of the day.
As part of the build-up, five schools in Sedibeng: Roshnee Secondary School,
Hoërskool Overvaal, Sizanani, Poelano and Lekoa Shandu schools were visited by
survivors of the Sharpeville Massacre, giving memorial lectures and telling
learners about their own experiences of the day.
An aerobics marathon was held in Sharpeville, attracting over 500 people, as
well as a Human Rights Choral Music Festival.
The programme for the day will include a wreath laying ceremony in the
morning followed by a rally during which Premier Mbhazima Shilowa will deliver
a keynote address.
"On this day we remember those who lost their lives in the struggle for
freedom and we celebrate a democratic South Africa founded on the values of
fundamental human rights for which they sacrificed," said Gauteng MEC for
Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Barbara Creecy.
A cultural programme with popular artists - Rebecca Malope, Mzwakhe Mbuli,
Doc Shebeleza, Solly Moholo, Ntando and many more will commence immediately
after the political programme.
For media related enquiries please contact: Nomazwe Ntlokwana
Tel: (011) 355 2578
Cell: 083 507 8068
Issued by: Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Gauteng
Provincial Government
20 March 2006
