Human Rights Day in South Africa
South Africa observes Human Rights Day on 21 March as a public holiday and a national commemoration. The date remembers the Sharpeville massacre and calls attention to the struggle for democracy and the rights protected by the Constitution.[1][2]
A public holiday under South African law
The Public Holidays Act 36 of 1994 provides South Africa’s public holiday calendar and says public holidays are paid holidays. The government lists Human Rights Day on 21 March. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a public holiday.[1][3]
For employees covered by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, an employer may require work on a public holiday only by agreement. If the holiday falls on a day an employee would normally work, the Act sets out minimum pay for employees who work and those who do not. The rules do not mean that every workplace must close.[4]
Why 21 March matters
On 21 March 1960, people in Sharpeville and Langa joined protests against apartheid pass laws. Police shot and killed 69 people in Sharpeville; the government’s account also records that many were shot while fleeing. The killings became known as the Sharpeville massacre and exposed the apartheid government’s violation of human rights.[2]
South Africa’s democratic government designated 21 March as Human Rights Day to honour those who fought for liberation and the rights enjoyed today. The day links the history of apartheid and resistance to the Bill of Rights in the Constitution, including protections for equality, human dignity, freedom of movement, language and culture, and life.[2]
Commemorations
Government describes the day as a chance to reflect on progress in promoting and protecting human rights. In Sharpeville, a provincial commemoration has included wreath-laying at Phelindaba Cemetery and the Sharpeville Memorial, followed by a formal programme. That documented programme shows one way the day is marked; event locations and activities can vary.[2][5]
Commemorations and reflection are the focus of the day. There is no single nationwide custom, specific traditional meal or uniform family practice.[2][5]
What to expect
As a public holiday, Human Rights Day affects employees under public-holiday rules, but those rules allow some employees to work by agreement. Check opening hours with the bank, shop, school or public transport provider before you go.[1][4]
Frequently asked questions
Is Human Rights Day a public holiday?
What happens if 21 March falls on a Sunday?
The Monday following a Sunday public holiday is also a public holiday under the rule stated by the South African Government.[1]
Do all employees have the day off?
The law does not require every workplace to close. Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, an employer may require an employee to work on a public holiday only by agreement, with pay rules applying in specified circumstances.[4]
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Check opening hours with the bank, shop or transport provider before travelling.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Human Rights Day in South Africa:
- Public holidays in South Africa- South African Government
- Human Rights Day- South African Government
- Public Holidays Act 36 of 1994- South African Government
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act- Department of Employment and Labour
- Gauteng Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation hosts Human Rights Day commemoration, 21 Mar- South African Government