UNIPSIL Human Rights Section was active in commemorating the International Day of Human Rights during all the week and in all regions. Events in Freetown included a symposium on human rights on the 7th December 2010, a drama competition on human rights and non discrimination for primary school and a debate on human rights on the TV on the 8th December 2010, a football match among HR activists and a best Speakers Contest on the 9th December 2010.

This climaxed on December 10th which marked the International Day of Human Rights and involved all regions and districts in the country. In Sierra Leone's capital Freetown for example, the day's celebration started with a float parade from Annie Walsh Memorial school in the east end of Freetown to the National stadium in west end of the city.

Participants of the float parade included staff of Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, UN agencies, school children, civil society groups, other organizations and various cultural dancers all dressed in their t-shirts with various human rights messages. TRC awareness raising music blared from giant musical sets on moving vehicles/trucks. Several banners and placards cards with human rights messages were displayed.

The ceremony was climaxed by performances from various groups including the blind school portraying human rights messages and speeches made by national and international stakeholders. The winning school for the drama competition also presented their skit to the admiration of all present.

Please click here for more on the Activities for UNIPSIL Human Rights Section.