Solomon Mahlangu’s story marks Human Rights day

Inspiring the youth by sharing the story of Solomon Mahlangu.

March 23, 2017

Stephen Selaluke 1 minute read

Local learners file past the admission gate for screening of Kalushi.

Mamelodi and Attridgeville learners were treated to a special screening of local film, Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu to mark Human Rights Day.

The 240 grade 11 and 12 history learners were hosted by Baker MJ Maseko, chairman of New Integrated Credit Solutions (Nics),

“I have decided to use the screening platform as an opportunity to remind the learners about those bad old days of racist obfuscation, memorialize [immortalize] the legacy of our gallant heroes who, irked by the reprehensible reality of their oppression, on 21 March 1960, embarked on a selfless journey to reclaim their humanity and catapult the liberation struggle of Solomon Mahlangu to martyrdom,” explained Maseko.

He added that he had invited youth to this event for a dialogue about the ideas and ideals Mahlangu fought for.

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Maseko challenged other black business people to organise special screenings in their areas as a tool to fight self –hate among young black people, and remind them of hard-earned freedom through the eyes of people such as Mahlangu who grew up in the same surroundings but gave his life to a greater cause – freedom.

“This is also to “renew our vow not to relent in our struggle against xenophobia and Afrophobia, and dialogue on what human rights mean to our youth and the freedom Mahlangu selflessly fought for”.

He also said that the ideals of “the radical economic transformation” and other means of redress would be a mirage if the country failed to invest in the education and empowerment of a black child.”

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“Just like Mahlangu fought for and defied the atrocities of apartheid, we expect learners today to celebrate and defend our new found freedoms and not forget people from Mamelodi, attredgeville and other townships who played a pivotal role in the struggle for liberation of our country” added Maseko.