Today, I challenge everyone who reads this to ask their children or grandchildren the following question: “What is Apartheid?” If you are like me, you may be a little afraid to hear the answer (or the non-answer).
It was just over 30 years ago that I and my college roommates stayed up night after night mesmerized by the live broadcasts showing the South African majority – discriminated against for decades – as they fought for an end to racial segregation, the right to vote in democratic elections, and the release of political prisoners. Soon De Klerk would be replaced by a freed Nelson Mandela and the right to vote would be given to all.
Next Tuesday, South Africa’s official Cultural Ambassadors are performing in person at the Performing Arts Center. Every Brookings resident has a unique opportunity to hear and experience firsthand a message of hope and peace through song that has been 50 years in the making.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a men’s acapella group that is known as one of the world's most precious musical treasures. The group has earned five Grammy Awards and received special notoriety in the U.S. as they toured with Paul Simon.
Members of Ladysmith were personal friends of Mandela, accompanying him to his Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Norway and performing during his inauguration.
Ask the question: “What is Apartheid?” Then consider the educational opportunity that is before us. Bring your family to the concert and experience the joy that comes from a life that is lived in freedom.
