Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa says as the country marks National Reconciliation Day, South Africans should ensure that they honour those who suffered for their freedom. The day has been observed on December the 16th since 1994.
The aim is to foster reconciliation among races. This year’s theme is United in action against racism, gender-based violence (GBV), and other intolerances.
Mthethwa says the theme talks to the realities South Africans are facing such as a lack of economic justice.
“You can’t talk of reconciliation in the abstract. It has to be based on real issues, lived experiences of people so that when we put on the table gender-based violence, racism, and other intolerances, says to you, let’s look at this and not be cosy about it and not pretend that this is how things are when they are not. Reconciliation is about economic justice.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to use his message today to unite the nation against racism. His address will be virtual in view of the COVID-19 restrictions.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, discusses the day further
