The 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising was commemorated by the DA and community members at Dorothy Nyembe Park on June 16.

The day was aimed at celebrating the fallen heroes who fought for equal education and for the right to be taught in a language of their choice, rather than one imposed upon them.

The uprising was a massive student-led protest against the South African apartheid government that was sparked by black students being forced to learn in Afrikaans.

ALSO READ: Locals gather to celebrate June 16 at Hector Peterson Memorial, Orlando West

It turned into a nationwide anti-apartheid rebellion that claimed hundreds of lives, such as the prominent activist Tsietsi Mashinini and Hector Pieterson.

DA mayoral candidate Helen Zille said, “We are in Soweto to celebrate the bravery of the youth in 1976.” We commemorate their bravery and the tragedy of the many lives that were lost. We will try to continue the legacy constructively within a democratic framework.’’

ALSO READ: Winnie Radebe recognised as Hall’s Winter Hero for community upliftment work

The community, made up of both young and old, shared their grievances and ongoing challenges, noting that although access to education was hard-won, many still cannot afford it.

They also expressed concern that even those who are able to study often struggle to find employment after completing their qualifications.

Proportional representation of the DA in Johannesburg, Councillor Obakeng Kamela, shared that the celebrations aim to recommit to the movement of youth power, noting that young people are an integral part of communities’ future.

“Having this here in Soweto brings us closer to where the marches and demonstrations took place, and helps us reflect on what the youth of 1976 wanted us to understand: a liberal society where their voices could be heard, and everyone is treated equally,” he said.

Dorcas Seemela, a family member of Mashinini, shared that she is happy to see that what her brother fought for has had a positive impact, including youth learning in their home languages and English.

She urged the youth to fight for their education.