Freedom Day | Western Cape Government

Freedom Day

Freedom day flags Freedom Day is celebrated on 27 April every year. We  commemorate our first democratic elections in South Africa, that took place in 1994, and celebrate our democracy. It's also a time to reflect on our unique Constitution which is widely regarded as the most progressive Constitution in the world, with a Bill of Rights second to none.


Our human rights are given prominence in our Constitution. Human rights feature in the preamble, where the intention is clearly stated to establish “a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights”.

In the first chapter, as part of the Founding Provisions of the Republic of South Africa, it's stated  that our democracy is founded on the following values: “Human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms”.

We must never forget the sacrifices that were made to bring about the transition of our country into a democracy. These freedoms didn't come easily. We owe it to the people that have sacrificed so much to make it possible not to take these freedoms lightly.

Freedom Day is a time to celebrate our hard-won democracy. Although much has changed since 1994, and there's been progress in every sphere of society, there's still more that needs to be done.

We call on all South Africans to celebrate national Freedom Day and our democracy across the country in reflecting on the achievements we have made as a nation.


Our National Symbols

National symbols

Listen to our National Anthem

Audio icon national_anthem.mp3

 


Celebrating together

On Freedom Day, it’s important that we not only enjoy our freedom, but take responsibility to protect our democracy for future generations. This year marks the 150th anniversary of struggle icon and human rights campaigner Charlotte Maxeke. She and other selfless women of her generation fought against oppression at a time when such defiance was met with unrelenting force.

You and your family can celebrate national Freedom Day by doing one of these activities in the province and celebrate your culture and how far both our individual and collective freedom has come since 1994.

 

The content on this page was last updated on 20 April 2022