Human Rights Day, marked annually on 21 March, is a national observation and proclamation of the rights enjoyed in South Africa. This iconic day is a reminder of the price that was paid for such rights.
Access to health care, for example, is a basic human right. Every year thousands of South Africans receive life saving blood transfusions that are made possible by the selfless acts of donors – a right all in the country enjoy owing to the comprehensive South African Bill of Rights that form the cornerstone of its Constitution.
Since its inception the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has been driven by its mission, to save lives and ensure that every citizen has access to blood transfusions when they are in need. This cannot be done without the invaluable contribution of dedicated donors.
This year SANBS is not only encouraging healthy members of the public to visit their nearest donor centre to do their part in enabling the right of access to health care for Human Rights Day, but it is also asking #EachOneToBringOne as well. As was demonstrated by the powerful movement that gave rise to Human Rights Day, SANBS believes there is power in numbers.
“We observe Human Rights Day to emphasise our commitment to equal access to healthcare services,” says Thandi Mosupye, SANBS Senior Manager: Marketing Communication and Brand, “which is one of our constitutional human rights. Inspired by this year’s theme, #LeaveNoOneBehind, we encourage South Africans to bring someone along to their donation this Human Rights Day weekend.”
SANBS has set a target of collecting 14 000 units of blood for the period 17-21 March, and urges everyone to come together with their families, friends and neighbours to provide much-needed blood for the nation, leaving no one behind. Follow @theSANBS on all major social media platforms for updates. To be eligible to donate blood, you have to be between 16 and 75 years old and weigh more than 50 kg.
