Alex 1976 honours the fallen heroes of Alex students uprising

The Farmers Market Yethu has called on Alexandra residents to join the June 16 commemorative event to remember the fallen heroes and heroines of the 1976 Alex Students Uprising.

The founder of the Refilwe Pieterse Foundation, Refilwe Pieterse, said the event aims to honour the fallen students of the anti-apartheid uprisings in Alex and Soweto and some of the still living survivors.

“On the day of the event, we will be joined by families of the Alex students uprising and together we will be on the journey of remembering the youth who lost their lives. We know that some disappeared and some went in to exile and many lost their mental capabilities; we will remember them in a dignified manner.”

Pieterse added that in the programme, a short documentary by a young activist, Mashudu Magadani. will narrate the story of her grandmother who was shot and killed during the student protest. Florence Magadani (16) was a learner at Realogile Secondary School in 1976.

“More than 35 learners lost their lives during that protest. There will be stories heard from the youngest students of the Alex uprising and we have invited Bulelo Vena – we want you to hear the story from her directly.”

Pieterse said they partnered with the Alexandra June 16/18 Association, a movement of 1976 students of Alex and Soweto.

“In the background of all this happening, there will be live music, spoken words and Alex artists will display their fine arts and sculptures in the exhibition themed ‘Healing wounds’.

“This event attracts the youth and the elderly to a day of sharing wisdom and knowledge. We expect about 200 guests from schools, local leaders, organisations and anyone who would like to be part of this event is more than welcome.”

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