The Gauteng Provincial Government will on Tuesday, 21 March host Human Rights Day commemorations in Sharpeville, Sedibeng. Gauteng Premier David Makhura will lead the commemoration in remembrance of 69 victims of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre and many other South Africans who lost their lives during the struggle for liberation.

This year’s activities are held under the theme: ‘The year of OR Tambo-Unity in Action in Advancing Human Rights’.

The year 2017 marks 100 years of the late OR Tambo’s birth. During his time, Tambo advocated for the unity of the people as important in achieving an equal society, where every person is accorded the same respect.

Joining the proceedings will be families of the victims and organisations such as the OR Tambo and Ahmed Kathrada Foundations and members of Khulumani and Bana ba Modimo support groups.

Proceedings for the day include wreath laying ceremonies at the Phelindaba Cemetery where the victims of the massacre are buried and at the monument that is next to the police station where they were shot. There will also be a 2km anti-racism and anti-xenophobia walk from the Monument to George Thabe Stadium ahead of the formal proceedings.

NB: Media accreditation for the event can be collected from Monday, 20 March at the George Thabe Stadium in Sharpeville and at the offices of the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation at 35 Rissik street Johannesburg.  

For confirmations and collection of accreditation contact Mpolokeng Moloi on 011 355-2623 / 082 707 8068 or Mpolokeng.moloi@gauteng.gov.za