South Africa celebrates Heritage Day as a commemoration and celebration of the cultural diversity and customs that form the rich drapery of South African society. Our country is made up of diverse cultures that unite us and bring prosperity; that is why we are known as the Rainbow Nation. This calls for a celebration!
As a country we have come a long way from the past, which was dominated by racial and cultural intolerance, isolation and discrimination. However, we still have a long way to go in addressing and managing our dusky past. As the people of our beloved country, we should unite to fight steadfastly for the creation of a truly non-racial, non-sexist and tolerant South Africa.
Desmond Tutu’s legacy is one that teaches us that “humanity is bound up in us, for we can only be human together”. As Africans, we are collectively responsible for blending our racial and cultural diversity. In this Heritage Month, let us all join hands and engage in discussions on how to further embrace our diverse cultures in strengthening social cohesion in South Africa.
Because it is not part of our heritage, each one of us should also commit to continue fighting Gender Based Violence (GBV) in all its facets and other ferocious behavior that seek to harm women, children, people with disabilities as well as foreign nationals. Let us embrace one another and celebrate our diversity and learn to coexist as part of our rich heritage.
Working together to build a better SMU community.
