One would think renaming Sharpeville Day the Human Rights Day would imbue the government with a desire to raise the consciousness on respect for human dignity and Back lives. It looks like this government has learn nothing from the cruel massacre of Black people and the maiming that took place in Sharpeville many moons ago. This government is not moved by the plight of the poor and the grinding levels of degradation suffered at the hands of both the government and racists. There absolutely no sense of urgency to deal with the daily challenges faced by the marginalized and those whose names are forgotten and only remembered as statistics.

If the public health care system in affluent provinces like Gauteng is as experienced by the poor Blacks, can you imagine what the situation is in rural and poor provinces. The situation is man made. Corruption brought us the lack of food provision neglect in Baragwanath and Charlotte Maxeke hospitals. It is not lack of budget but poor management and the desire to steal from the poor that lead to the condition of human rights abuse that Black people suffer. It is as if those that we elected have entered into a pact with the devil to oppress their very own kith. No sense of care, no compassion no feelings at all. Black people are on their own.

The collapse of the education system in townships and black schools is a shame we cannot ignore. Despite billions of spending many schools are overcrowded and learners studying under trees. Sunday Times reveals that there are 261 public schools in 8 provinces that did not return to daily attendance. Klipgat High school in North West has grades 8 and 9 learning under trees because of shortage of classrooms. The lament of Mr. Elias Mogore, the Chairperson of the SGB cuts deep. These are provinces run by the ANC government, a government that promised a better life for all. These are serious human rights violations against the body and dignity of Black people. Government complicity in this violation of black dignity is a crime worse than that committed by apartheid. ANC government does not care and has no love for Black people. There is absolutely no sense of urgency in dealing with the plight of Black people.

Black people deserve better. As we reflect on those who died in Sharpeville demanding dignity and respect, let us remember that the body of Black people still receive battering and disregard more than 60 years later. Let us recommit to remove all those who still stand in the way of total liberation of Black people. Let us raise our level of consciousness to be abhorred by instances of violation of the human rights and dignity of Black people, whether committed by our own kith or racists in our country. No violation should be condoned. We should never be numbed and be despondent or overwhelmed. This government must be kept on their toes and be reminded that it’s time is up, Black people are not going to tolerate abuse any longer.