By Azile Kraziya
The BA Student Committee (BASC) and the United Nations Association of South Africa (UNASA), together with Pieke and Metanoia Residences, collaborated on the Human Rights Day Colour Run on 20 March, creating a vibrant and symbolic lead-up to Human Rights Day.
The event formed part of broader efforts to commemorate Human Rights Day, a significant occasion in South Africa that reflects on the country’s history of struggle, sacrifice, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and dignity for all. By engaging students in an interactive and celebratory activity, the organisers aimed to highlight the continued relevance of human rights in contemporary society, particularly among the youth. Participants in the run were covered in coloured powder representing the South African flag, a powerful visual symbol of unity in diversity. These colours served as a reminder of the nation’s journey towards freedom, emphasising ideals of inclusivity, reconciliation and shared identity.
Speaking on the meaning of the day, Jessica Elvos, the Vice-Chairperson of UNASA General, explained, “Everyone will say ‘freedom’, some ‘democracy’, but for me, Humans Rights Day means celebrating my family without any fear or prejudice.” Elvos highlights how human rights are not only political ideals, but are also deeply rooted in everyday experiences of safety, belonging and acceptance.
Adding to this perspective, Brandall Schwartz, Transformation Manager for BASC said, “Human Rights Day is a celebration of how far we have come and is a reminder of what more we still need to do.” Schwartz further explained, “The purpose behind the initiative is to celebrate the collaboration of our people from different backgrounds. It is very difficult to invite different communities and engage on the injustices of the past and transformation issues.” Through initiatives such as the Colour Run, student organisations continue to create spaces that commemorate the historical significance of Human Rights Day, while also encouraging ongoing dialogue about what it means to live freely and equally in a diverse and transforming society.
