As we approach the Easter Weekend we should remind ourselves that whilst most South Africans enjoy this long weekend, the religious significance of the following days only apply to some. For others it is merely a long weekend and to others the celebration of the following days is in conflict with their own beliefs. Nevertheless, we all have the freedom to choose what we wish to do or feel about this weekend. With that freedom, we also have a duty to be tolerant and respectful towards other people's choices.

In South Africa, the highest law of the land is not Parliament or the President. The highest law is the Constitution. In the Constitution, we find a Section called the Bill of Rights. It is in here specifically we find those rights which allow us our various freedoms.

It is through these freedoms we may express who we are. One of the most important is Section 15 of the Bill of Rights, which states the following.

Freedom of religion, belief, and opinion

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief, and opinion.
2. Religious observances may be conducted at state or state-aided institutions, provided that ­
1. those observances follow rules made by the appropriate public authorities;
2. they are conducted on an equitable basis; and
3. attendance at them is free and voluntary.
3. This section does not prevent legislation recognising ­
1. marriages concluded under any tradition, or a system of religious, personal or family law; or
2. systems of personal and family law under any tradition, or adhered to by persons professing a particular religion.
1. Recognition in terms of paragraph (a) must be consistent with this section and the other provisions of the Constitution.

What this means is that anyone may practise their religion as they see fit. Therefore, over the Easter weekend whilst Christians celebrate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Jews will be celebrating their Passover. In times before and other places first the Christians were persecuted by the Jews for practising their religion and then Jews by Christians.

In South Africa, this will not happen. The highest law in the land says that everyone shall have freedom to worship the deity of his or her choice or not worship any deity at all. So whatever you chose to spend your weekend doing, remember that it is because of the Rights that are guaranteed to you by the South African Constitution.

Sources:

The Constitution

Page Last Updated 01 April 2010