Day Of Reconciliation
Marking the beginning of a new era in South Africa's history, this historical event led to a more equitable society.
Leverage Day of Reconciliation to drive educational content, documentaries, and thought-leadership around historical awareness and social justice themes.
- Stream South African history documentaries and films celebrating resilience and reconciliation
- Host educational webinars or panel discussions on colonialism's lasting impact and modern equity
- Share Nelson Mandela's legacy and transformational leadership stories across platforms
- Partner with educators to create curriculum resources on South African history and human rights
The history of the Day of Reconciliation is the history of a nation suffering under the auspices of colonialism and the inherent racism that existed as a part of this practice.
While apartheid became legislated in 1948, racial segregation had been a reality in South Africa since the reign of the Dutch Empire in 1652, and saw no change when the British took possession of the country in 1795.
Things only got worse in 1950 when non-white political representation was abolished in the country. While it served to deeper entrench the policies of racial segregation, it also sparked off a series of rebellions, violence, and a trade and long arms embargo against the country.
The date for the Day of Reconciliation was selected due to its significance to both the Afrikaner and African people. For the Afrikaner it was known as the Day of the Covenant, a religious holiday celebrating a victory over the Zulus by the Voortrekker’s in 1838 at the Battle of Blood River.
For the Africans it was a day of one of an important protest in 1910 against racial discrimination. In 1961 the Umkhonto we Sizwe, the “Spear o the Nation”, was established, an armed force of the ANC.
The first acts of sabotage and violent resistance against the apartheid leaders also happened on that day in history.
Every year, there is a different theme for this date, and we would definitely recommend looking into these themes. They can help to give you a sense of direction in terms of how you should honor the date on that specific year.
For example, some of the themes that have been in place over the years include:
Get Educated About Colonialism
Take some time to educate yourself on colonialism and how it affected, and still affects the people who suffered under it. Colonialism and racism often go hand in hand, and their effects don’t end with the people who lived under them, but carry down through their children and grandchildren. Systems of governance and societal pressures don’t change overnight, so spend your day learning how to dig the last roots of it out of your neighborhood and country.
Engage with South African History
Take some time to learn more about the history of South Africa on the Day of Reconciliation. Nowadays, it is easy to read on a subject thanks to the Internet. You will also find that there are a lot of great films and books about the history of South Africa, so why not watch or read one of them on this date? You may feel like you have a good understanding of the history of the country, but there is always something more that you can learn.
Consider Nelson Mandela
You can also spend some more time learning about the most influential figures in South African history. Of course, the obvious place to start here is with Nelson Mandela. Mandela was South Africa’s first black head of state, and his story is an incredible one, with him serving 27 years in prison.
Watch Great South Africans
There is even a TV show called ‘Great South Africans’ whereby people voted for their greatest South African of all-time. You may want to hunt down this television program so that you can find out more about the incredible people that did amazing things for their country.