South Africa has one of the most forward-thinking constitutions in the world – but it’s quite apparent that her citizens are going through a rather rough time at the moment.
After being born into a democracy through an idyllic peaceful transition, most of us had hope for a brighter future for all. But, no matter what many think, we are still on that path of hope – we have just found ourselves needing to overcome a few hurdles.
Although our relationship with the current president isn’t as fruitful as it has been with previous heads of states, we have one man to look up to when we think – and fight – for the future: former president Nelson Mandela.
Under the idea of Madiba and his fellow freedom fighters, Steve Biko, Chris Hani, Oliver Tambo and Robert Sobukwe among others, it’s more apparent than ever that we rise as one to overcome the challenges every citizen faces, whether it’s standing side-by-side during national marches or overcoming the long-term effects of colonisation.
When Madiba addressed parliament on the first commemoration of Freedom Day, he was able to unite the country with a simple speech. Here’s the paragraph that has stood the test of time:
As dawn ushered in this day, the 27th of April 1995, few of us could suppress the welling of emotion, as we were reminded of the terrible past from which we come as a nation; the great possibilities that we now have; and the bright future that beckons us. And so we assemble here today, and in other parts of the country, to mark a historic day in the life of our nation. Wherever South Africans are across the globe, our hearts beat as one, as we renew our common loyalty to our country and our commitment to its future.
You see, Freedom Day, celebrated on April 27, pays tribute to the first day post-apartheid elections were held back in 1994. It was the moment that changed the path of South African history, after long and tension-ridden negotiations between 1991 and 1992.
Igniting the warrior within to carry on the fight for our constitutional rights, proudly South African premium lifestyle apparel brand Magents has long incorporated a message that invokes ‘konsciousness’, celebration and artistry of the people with a collection consisting of t-shirts, sneakers, denims, jackets, sweatpants, sweaters and accessories.
One of their designers, Thei, filmed a video about what it means to be a South African celebrating Freedom Day:
Happy Freedom Day to everyone out there, and together let’s make the lives of all South Africans better one day at a time.
