Day Of Reconciliation

Day Of Reconciliation is celebrated in South Africa on December 16th. The holiday marks the end of apartheid, a policy of racial segregation that continued until 1994. The date had a positive impact on the nation: the horrendous injustice is well remembered and they do not want it to happen again.

History

From the first years, the Europeans, who called themselves Boers, were in conflict with the natives because of their intractability – they simply did not want to leave their lands. White people were much better trained and had modern weapons, so the locals had a hard time. They were forcibly made into slaves. This continued until the end of the 19th century, when the British entered these lands and pushed the Boers back. Over time, the British united the occupied territories into a dominion – even then the first sprouts of apartheid were felt.

The descendants of the Boers, who once fought with the natives, regarded the dark-skinned as slaves. The policy was based on the infringement of the indigenous population: they were forbidden to be elected to government bodies, acquire land, use public transport, visit places of recreation, and study in educational institutions along with white people. A special place was occupied by punitive measures. African society took to demonstrations, strikes, strikes…

The new president of South Africa, Frederik Willem de Klerk, came to power, and in 1989 the situation changed for the better. The politician abolished racial discrimination and provided black people with rights and freedoms. The regime collapsed and brought relief. However, there is still tension between the peoples and a desire for revenge for 50 years of humiliation.

Interesting facts

Noteworthy:

• even in large cities there are areas where it is better for white people not to go;
• 50% of the population is below the poverty line;
• African leader Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life in prison, but after the destruction of the regime, he was released ahead of schedule.

How to celebrate

Learn more about South Africa’s past at Day Of Reconciliation. Watch documentaries or study history books. Meet the influential figures of the time.

When is Day Of Reconciliation celebrated in 2022?

Day Of Reconciliation is observed on December 16 each year.

Observations