In a statement the SAHRC reminded citizens that the preamble of the constitution states that: “… South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity ... [We should all work to] Heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights”.

South Africa’s diversity in race, religion culture, language, ethnicity, social origins and other factors, remain a treasure for this nation, said the commission, adding that it will be joining everyone within the country in celebrating Heritage Day.

"Heritage Day gives all within South Africa the opportunity to celebrate our diverse backgrounds whilst accepting backgrounds which are different to our own. The diversity we are gifted with, gives us an opportunity to learn from each other," said the statement.

"The SAHRC is, however, deeply concerned that our diversity has become the source for division and conflict in South Africa. The commission is deeply concerned with continued divisions on the basis of the very diversity we celebrate.

"These divisions are observed through the commission’s exercise of its constitutional mandate to protect, promote and monitor the attainment of human rights as set out in chapter two of the constitution, the Bill of Rights."

The commission’s "Annual Trend Analysis Report",  which records and reflects the complaints the commission receives within a particular financial year, persistently indicates that violations based on the right to equality remain the highest violations.

The SAHRC  said it has and continues to deal with numerous incidences of hate speech, particularly via social media. 

"Instances of xenophobia, hate speech and violations of the Right to Equality fly in the face of the constitutional democracy we need to foster, a society based on the foundations of equality, freedom and dignity for all," said the statement.

"The commission thus urges all within South Africa to see Heritage Day as an opportunity to unite us and not use our diverse heritages to divide us. It is incumbent on all of us to build the social cohesion envisioned by our constitution and the dream of our democracy."

ANA