BLOGGING THE VIEW: Celebrating our diverse heritage is our greatest strength

“We knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation” – Nelson Mandela

As the world becomes more and more divided, with politicians creating differences as distractions from their endless greed, it feels like celebrating our differences is more important than ever.

On Wednesday, 24 September, Mzansi will celebrate Heritage Day. It’s a time to embrace our roots, share stories, enjoy traditional food, and celebrate the diverse cultures that make our region and nation so special.

History of Heritage Day

Heritage Day has a fascinating history, starting as Shaka Day here in KZN, commemorating the legendary King Shaka Zulu, who united the Nguni clans.

When South Africa became a democracy, the government wanted a holiday everyone could celebrate, so in 1995, Heritage Day was born.

In 2005, the day took on its ‘National Braai Day’ theme, because nothing brings South Africans together like a good braai.

Why Heritage Day matters

Heritage Day is your chance to:

· Celebrate your culture and traditions

· Invite family around and share stories about ancestors

· Learn about others in your community

· Preserve the history of Zululand and South Africa

· Connect with family, friends and neighbours

· Turn differences into strengths

Keep traditions alive this Heritage Day

From Nguni customs and beadwork to the oral stories and music, living heritage is all around us. Heritage Day is the perfect time to share the stories of our ancestors; teach younger generations about our history and culture; and enjoy a braai, shisa nyama or ukosa.

At the heart of Heritage Day is our traditions, our stories, and our connections. Whether you’re donning traditional attire, enjoying a boerie roll at a backyard braai, or teaching the next generation about their ancestry, every action celebrates the rainbow nation we call home.

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HAVE YOUR SAY