20 March 2026
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2026 MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE MAYOR
As we approach Human Rights Day, we remember the events of 21 March 1960 in Sharpeville, when many South Africans lost their lives while peacefully protesting unjust laws. Their sacrifice helped lay the foundation for the democratic South Africa we know today.
Human Rights Day reminds us of the rights protected in our Constitution, including dignity, equality, freedom and access to basic services. It also reminds us that protecting and promoting these rights is a shared responsibility.
Langeberg Municipality remains committed to fairness, accountability and equal access to services. Through responsible governance and working together with our communities, we continue striving to build a municipality where every person feels respected, heard and valued.
Let us use this Human Rights Day as an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the values of unity, justice and mutual respect.
Alderman SW van Eeden
Executive Mayor of Langeberg Municipality
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South Africa will commemorate Human Rights Month in March under the theme: “Bill of Rights at 30: Making Human Dignity Real.” South Africa’s Human Rights Month is rooted in the tragic events of the Sharpeville massacre on 21 March 1960, where the apartheid regime killed 69 peaceful protestors, exposing the state's grave human rights violations.
At the time, systemic inequalities were entrenched through oppressive laws such as the pass laws and the Group Areas Act. The collective struggle, courageous actions, and sacrifices of leaders like former President Nelson Mandela and
Robert Sobukwe, alongside other countless activists, paved the way for a constitutional democracy built on justice, equality, and human dignity.
During this month, we honour the struggle stalwarts whose courage and sacrifices secured our freedom. This year’s Human Rights Month coincides with the commemoration of 30 years of the adoption of The Constitution. The celebration of The Constitution’s 30th anniversary happens at the same time as the seventh democratic local government elections which will be held later this year, a testament to the resilience and maturity of our democracy.