On 21 March, people across the country will commemorate Human Rights Day, which was officially declared a public holiday in 1994 following the inauguration of President Nelson Mandela. This day remembers the tragic events of the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960.
Phumeza Mdabe
Phumeza Mdabe, TV presenter, singer, and actress who is also the mother to a child with special needs, shares: “The real focus of human rights should be on children because, unlike adults, they cannot fight for themselves. There is nothing more important than for kids to have all their human rights met, especially education.” “South Africa still has a long way to go in providing schools for children with special needs. The government needs to normalise having schools available in all areas because there are some people who go as far as hiding their children at home out of shame, or not having a place to take them,” she adds.
Ayanda Allie Paine
News anchor-turned-singer Ayanda Allie Paine is set to leave the world of current affairs for that of music. She will release her debut album titled We The People on Human Rights Day, describing it as a reflection of South African society. She further comments on the importance of honouring our human rights: “We can point hands, but that won’t fix anything… Let’s pick up the pieces and work towards a solution together. Now, SA needs itself and [we need] each other more than ever. No one is going to help us if we don’t do the work. We need to roll up our sleeves and do the work.”
Njabulo Blom
Njabulo Blom is a South African professional soccer player. He started his career with Kaizer Chiefs, but is now the central midfielder for Missouri-based soccer club, St. Louis City SC. The 23-year-old shares his thoughts on Human Rights Day: “We need to put in more effort to demonstrate dedication and commitment in what we do in life. I know with rights comes a huge responsibility. Our conduct must demonstrate that we are ready to be counted as good citizens in the future.” He further asserts: “This is the day that contributed to our lives and got us liberated from the apartheid legislation. It is important to respect this day and honour the fallen heroes.”
Puleng Molebatsi
TV presenter and actress Puleng Molebatsi advocates for the rights of people living with albinism. She says that, while attacks on albino people will not end immediately, Human Rights Day should highlight their plight. “It doesn’t matter who makes comments about you…Even if they say it as a joke, it’s a threat! Report the matter immediately because you don’t know the person’s intentions,” she emphasises.
Ntsiki Mazwai
Local actress and poet, Ntsiki Mazwai shares her thoughts about Human Rights Day, adding that she does not need a public holiday to prompt or encourage her to do what is right. “I’m one person who doesn’t wait for a specific day to do something, every day is like a public holiday to me, in doing good for the community.” Mazwai adds: “It’s important for people to not forget that it is not only Human Rights Day, but also Sharpeville day… We should make sure that our history is not erased.”
5 LOCAL CELEBS SHARE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HUMAN RIGHTS DAY
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
March 21, 2023
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
March 21, 2023
Rating:
