On Heritage day each year on the 24th of September we dress up and celebrate our vibrant diversity and differences. Whilst these may be vast, most of us it seems share the very same aspirations, hopes and dreams – and are deeply vested in our fellow South African citizens’ success.
The Institute of Race Relations research* shows that 80% of South Africans respect one another and want to work together to build a better country despite the prevailing rhetoric. This is only possible, they go on to say, if the moderate middle of South Africans stands united. The true power of heritage lies in connection. Meaningful connection comes with understanding, which begins with conversation.
Let’s talk more….To people who are different to us. To people who have an alternative perspective. To people from different backgrounds. To those we would not usually socialise
with. To people who could share with us a different way to see the world, or be in the world. To people who will help us to grow, in empathy and understanding. To connect and grow ourselves in the process.
In an address marking Heritage Day in 1996, the late former State President Nelson Mandela said, “When our first democratically elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.
(*https://irr.org.za/campaigns/united-campaign)
#heritagedaycelebrations #letstalk #reachout #connectToday #beyondstereotyping #letsbuild #proudlysouthafrican #growbeYOUnd
