What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day

Let’s look into the significance of Human Rights Day in South Africa. As your teacher, tutor or writer, I’ll guide you on how to structure your “What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day” essay or assignment effectively to earn top marks for South African curriculum. Remember, clarity, connection and flowing paragraphs and a well-organised argument are important.
Writing an essay on the purpose of Human Rights Day in South Africa is an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the significance of this day and its relevance to the history and current context of South Africa.
Here are some guidelines to help you structure your essay effectively and achieve the highest marks:
Understand the Question “What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day” correctly.
Let us look at the magic term: What is. When a question begins with “What is,” it’s asking for a definition or explanation of a concept, object, or phenomenon. You should provide a clear and straightforward description or meaning from South African point of view.
Essay Structure of What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day
- Introduction
- Briefly introduce Human Rights Day and its significance globally and in South Africa.
- Present the thesis statement outlining the main purpose of the essay.
- Historical Background
- Discuss the historical context of human rights violations in South Africa, particularly during the apartheid era.
- Explain the role of the international community and South African activists in advocating for human rights.
- Establishment of Human Rights Day
- Explain how and when Human Rights Day was established in South Africa.
- Discuss the significance of December 10th (NOT 21 March), the date the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations.
- Purpose of Human Rights Day
- Discuss the importance of raising awareness about human rights.
- Highlight the role of Human Rights Day in promoting unity, understanding, and respect among diverse communities in South Africa.
- Explain how Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the past and a call to action for the future.
- Conclusion
- Summarize the main points discussed in the essay.
- Restate the importance of Human Rights Day in South Africa’s history and its ongoing relevance today.
✓✓(500 words) Answer for What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day essay
Introduction for What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day essay
Human Rights Day is a pivotal public holiday in South Africa, observed annually on March 21st. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy. In this essay, we will explore the historical context, the tragic event that sparked its commemoration, and the enduring importance of Human Rights Day.
The Sharpeville Massacre: A Turning Point
On that fateful day in 1960, the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) organised a peaceful protest in Sharpeville, where women, men, and children gathered without their mandatory passes (known colloquially as “Dompas”). These passes were instruments of apartheid-era control, restricting the movement of people of colour. The protest aimed to challenge this oppressive system.
However, the peaceful demonstration turned into a horrifying tragedy. South African police opened fire on the crowd, resulting in the deaths of 69 people and injuries to 180 others. Most victims were shot in the back as they tried to flee the hail of bullets. This brutal event became known as the Sharpeville Massacre.
The Birth of Human Rights Day
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the apartheid government declared a State of Emergency and banned both the PAC and the African National Congress (ANC). But the spirit of resistance persisted underground. Ordinary people continued to fight for their fundamental rights, even in the face of violence and repression.
When South Africa held its first democratic election in 1994, the newly elected president, Nelson Mandela, officially designated March 21st as Human Rights Day. This date symbolises the unwavering commitment to human rights and the collective struggle for freedom.
Honouring the Heroes
Human Rights Day pays homage to those who stood up against injustice. It honours the brave souls who faced police brutality, imprisonment, and loss of life. These heroes fought not only for themselves but for future generations. They believed in a South Africa where every citizen could enjoy dignity, equality, and freedom.
The Ongoing Struggle
Human Rights Day is not merely a historical marker; it’s a call to action. It reminds us that the fight for justice, equality, and human dignity continues. As we commemorate this day, we must reflect on our responsibilities as citizens. We must advocate for the rights of all, regardless of race, gender, or background.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Human Rights Day stands as a testament to the resilience of the South African people. It reminds us that freedom is hard-won and that we must safeguard it for future generations. Let us honour the memory of those who sacrificed everything for our rights, and let us continue the struggle for a just and equitable society.
✓✓Marking guideline for Essay on “What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day in South Africa?”
Criteria | Marks Allocated |
---|---|
Introduction | 10 marks |
– Introduction of Human Rights Day | 3 marks |
– Significance of Human Rights Day in South Africa | 4 marks |
– Thesis statement | 3 marks |
Historical Background | 20 marks |
– Discussion of human rights violations during apartheid | 7 marks |
– Role of international community and South African activists | 8 marks |
– Clarity and relevance of historical context | 5 marks |
Establishment of Human Rights Day | 20 marks |
– Explanation of the Sharpeville massacre and its significance | 8 marks |
– Adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN | 6 marks |
– Significance of December 10th | 6 marks |
Purpose of Human Rights Day | 30 marks |
– Importance of raising awareness about human rights | 8 marks |
– Role of Human Rights Day in promoting unity and understanding | 10 marks |
– Reminder of the past and a call to action for the future | 8 marks |
– Clarity and coherence in explaining the purpose | 4 marks |
Conclusion | 10 marks |
– Summary of main points | 4 marks |
– Restatement of the importance of Human Rights Day | 3 marks |
– Clarity and coherence in conclusion | 3 marks |
Structure and Organization | 10 marks |
– Logical flow and coherence | 5 marks |
– Use of clear and concise language | 3 marks |
– Proper essay structure | 2 marks |
Total Marks | 100 marks |
Tips for Scoring High Marks for What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day essay
- Ensure that your essay is well-structured with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Provide relevant examples and evidence to support your arguments.
- Use clear and concise language, and proofread your essay to eliminate any grammatical or spelling errors.
- Maintain a logical flow and coherence throughout the essay.
What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day