A town rich in diversity
The mayor says Rand West City is a town rich in diversity but still has a long way to go if the town can be referred to as a truly democratic and diverse society.
The Westonaria Banquet Hall was filled with people from different cultural backgrounds who came out to celebrate Heritage Day.
This was on September 22 in an event that was organised by Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) in partnership with South Deep Gold Mine. The crowd in attendance included learners from different schools in the Rand West City region who took to the stage and showcased their talents.
They did this through singing and dancing, as well as acting, among other activities. Heritage Day is officially observed on September 24.
RWCLM Executive Mayor Gladys Khoza was also in attendance and celebrated with the crowd by singing and dancing along.
Speaking during her address, the mayor said that she was proud to see the town alive with so many colours and traditional outfits, resembling the different cultures of the people who reside in Rand West City.
“Many of us here are descendants of mine workers who came from different tribes across the country and resided in this town. Some people came here to work in the mines and some came here in efforts of finding a home and in those efforts, we have managed to build a town that is rich in diversity.
“We cannot speak of a democratic and diverse society without the proper history that helps us become better-informed citizens. We also cannot honour our forefathers if their children do not know who they are. Let it be a task for all of us to reflect on our culture and the value systems that we have created in our homes and that we filter to our immediate communities.
“We have come a long way as a society and there’s still much more that is required from us,” she said, who added that people can be beautiful in their own diversity.
