The history of Human Rights Day

The history of Human Rights Day, celebrated annually on March 21 in South Africa, dates back to 1948 when the United Nations adopted the 'Universal Declaration of Human Rights'. This international document enshrined the 30 rights of all people, including the rights to freedom, justice and peace.

The National Party swept into power in 1948 and legalised segregation by implementing a series of laws that gave them control over the movement of people of colour. Through the Native Laws Amendment Act, 1952, which was commonly referred to as the Pass Laws, black people were denied their rights, their movement was limited and controlled, and they were required to carry a reference book or 'pass' at all times.

The pass included a photograph, details of place of origin, employment record and encounters with the police.

South African society was furthermore characterised by gross human rights violations of inequality, arrest and detention without trial, unfair labour practices, lack of access to healthcare, water, food and social security, among others.

The Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) decided on March 21, 1960, to launch an anti-pass campaign. Men were told to assemble without passes and offer themselves up for arrest. Approximately 10 000 people assembled outside the Sharpeville police station to protest against these unjust laws. Although the protest was peaceful, police opened fire on them and 69 were killed and 180 wounded. This day became known as 'Sharpeville Day'.

Each year on March 21, the country celebrates Human Rights Day to commemorate the Sharpeville massacre. The day shines a bright light on all those who fought for and lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.

Human Rights Day was first commemorated in South Africa in 1995 after the inauguration of Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president of South Africa.