Why are human rights important to me – A view of Tumisang from Orange Farm

My name is Tumisang Mohoto, and I am a 17-year-old boy from Orange Farm. Human rights are basic principles that secure me from injustice, oppression and inequality. Through human rights we become better people, who do things at their fullest potential with no fear of facing injustices such as nepotism nor racism. These principles allow me to cherish the greatness of my own country, with no fear of being judged because of my physical appearance. They instill a sense of faith in me that no matter how young am I, I am obliged to make this world a better place.

In my neighborhood, ignorance towards human rights has become the greatest challenge. The right to health has been highly violated by our health practitioners. An ordinary Orange Farm person does not come back satisfied from the health facilities. Furthermore, our rights to a healthy environment are highly infringed, as it has become a norm that people we consider to be role models smoke in front of us. Yet, we have accepted such conditions because in the world in which we live, we often have no say towards the actions of ‘the grownups’. The right to freedom of expression has also been greatly undermined, as young girls have to be constantly alert and careful out of fear of being sexually harassed.

However, there is still a sense of hope in our community. We are blessed with organizations such as Afrika Tikkun which cherish the significance of human rights, predominantly of those living with disabilities. Child protection secures the rights of a young person from being infringed. Both child protection and human rights secure humanity against situations of oppression or injustice. 

A lot still needs to be done to ensure that human rights are secured. We can support the efforts with our dedication and determination. People need to rise up and educate one another about human rights. This is not only the duty of the authority as leaders can be influenced by money and corruption. Education, however, leaves an impact that lasts forever.