Cultural expert says there’s freedom in celebrating Easter
Cultural and language expert Khathu Sadiki says South Africa is a country of different religions and therefore Easter is celebrated differently by many.
POLOKWANE – As many prepare for the upcoming Easter celebrations at their homes and various places of worship, cultural and language expert at the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Khathu Sadiki says those that do not conform to Christianity should not force their counterparts to celebrate the holiday.
Easter remains the second most celebrated holiday on the calendar after Christmas and is a worldwide celebration done in different ways.
Sadiki says South Africans are free people and they have the right to choose to be Christians or not.
“By being in a democratic country, participating in the festivities of the day is an individual thing. The decision to participate or not could be based on a particular belief system or a constitutional right to participate or to recognize the day itself. So, no one can be forced to participate or observe the day although it is declared a public holiday.”
“For Christians it has a significant meaning after Christmas. But since South Africa is a country of different religions, it is celebrated differently. So different people attach different meanings to the day.”
Sadiki says Easter is characterized by the coming together of family members and for children, is a fun day filled with Easter eggs.
“Interesting is the fact that some churches have embraced acculturation for the mixing of songs in their churches which is the recognition of the fact that before Christianity, African people had their religion. So, everybody has people to celebrate with. Celebration is not confined to a place or a family. Even hobos, wherever they are, can celebrate the Easter holiday,” she said.
Sadiki said in the olden days, Easter used to be embraced by many, but some are no longer eager to commemorate the day.
“Times have changed. Before, a particular religion was forced on people at schools and townships. So, people have no choice but to be part of the celebration. Now that people have the freedom to choose and express themselves in their own languages and respect their cultural beliefs, Easter is now celebrated differently. For many Africans, it is observed as a day for thanksgiving by coming together, slaughtering a goat or a sheep and being happy.”
