Celebrating Freedom Day 2018
Every year on the 27th of April, we celebrate Freedom Day - a day when we recognise the anniversary of the first free and democratic election in South Africa. As the years have gone by and the world around us has changed, we’re discovering new ways of defining what freedom means to us. Here’s more about what freedom means today and how to celebrate it.
What Freedom Day Means
Since South Africa has become a democracy, we have been leaders in promoting human rights. For example, after apartheid, our constitution was the first in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual preference - which meant that anyone who is LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex or Asexual) is protected under the law. Our government has also passed many laws which promote the rights of people living with disabilities.
Because of this, South Africa is seen as a very progressive country; which has adopted laws that protect the freedom of marginalised (treated as inferior or outcast) people.
Young people living in today’s South Africa also have more freedom to make better decisions about their bodies, sexual health and their careers. Access to education and opportunities for students is a priority too.
Finally, our country has taken great strides in promoting gender equality by promoting women in business and female entrepreneurs. There is still a lot that can be done to improve on the treatment of women in SA, however the rights that women have to express themselves, to get an education, vote and work is a great starting point for equality.
How to Celebrate
There are many ways to celebrate Freedom Day Choma, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. To me, celebrating Freedom Day means embracing and expressing your freedom. Whether you’re with friends or family, it’s good to take this time to share what you know about equality and human rights. Express what this day means to you on social media, and make your voice heard on issues you think need to be spoken about.
Want to make your voice hear Choma? You can here on Make a Noise.
You see Choma, we still have many things we can improve on, but there is also a lot we have accomplished in the past 24 years as a country. Let’s look forward to an even brighter future and keep finding ways to keep the spirit of Freedom Day alive every day of the year and in everything we do.
Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).
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