KOPANO MONAHENG
THE pupils of 1976 are celebrated today not only for the sacrifice they made. But also for their courage, resilience, and determination they displayed in the face of injustice.
Every 16 June, Mzansi pupils, politicians and everyone else in the country remembers the tragic loss of young lives, only because they did not want to be taught in Afrikaans. Their bravery became a turning point in South Africa’s struggle for freedom, equality, dignity, and quality education. They stood up against oppression, inspiring a nation to continue the fight for justice.
Though many of their voices were silenced too soon, their message continues to echo across generations.
Actor and musician, Khaya Dladla, was among celebrities who attended the Soweto Theatre during June 16 celebratory performance on Tuesday. Dladla said it was important to commemorate 50 years of youth day.
“I think it’s necessary to celebrate it,” he said, adding that even the kids who are born today they needed to understand that the freedom they enjoy now is a privilege.
When asked if it was a smart idea to chase foreigners out of this country, especially during the youth month, Dladla responded:
“I think we are misdirecting our anger and we are using it incorrectly,” said Dladla. He said many households employ nannies and helpers. “We just need to look at why we are chasing people away I don’t think it’s a smart idea for us to say everybody get out we can’t do that because we also have our old brothers and sisters in foreign countries so also our heroes were being exiled in all these places you know so I think we can’t look at it one way.”
There was never a dull moment and every single person in attendance left happy and the food was galore. Youth Day should therefore be a day of remembrance and celebration: remembrance for the lives that were lost, and celebration for the courage that ignited hope and accelerated the struggle for democracy.
