JOBURG — Members of the community give their honest opinions of what Human Rights Day means to them.
Phumlani Nkonyane – It's about celebrating our basic human rights and also appreciating the responsibilities that comes with those rights.
On Saturday, 21 March South Africans across the board will celebrate the country’s Bill of Rights. Alas, despite the Bill’s promise of protection, a significant number of South Africans, for various reasons, are still denied their human rights, which, more often than not, may result in a number of psychological disorders, even suicidal thoughts.
We spoke to residents in our areas about whether the day’s meaning still resonated with them amidst the current social crisis. Tamryn Coats, counselling psychologist at Akeso Psychiatric Clinics, said human rights play a monumental role in a person’s sense of self, interactions style and sense of purpose in the world.
Julia Kgobokoe – Yes, the day is still relevant. I love to have a holiday.
Linda Uys – It means absolutely nothing to me.
Nana Kittoe – If something is going wrong, as a human being you have a right to voice your opinion about it.
Hugo Mukenge – Human Rights Day is still relevant. Everyone has rights to a living and a normal life.
Divan Roets – Human Rights Day means every person has a right to say something. It is also a history lesson. Someday people will remember the significance of the day.
Mareka Symigton – I haven’t really thought of it. I doubt South Africans have human rights. The people in power don’t ever consider our rights.
Phumlani Nkonyane – It’s about celebrating our basic human rights and also appreciating the responsibilities that comes with those rights.