Youth day touches hearts of all ages in this generation
The march, which was supposed to be a peaceful one and heading to Orlando Stadium turned south
In commemoration of the youth of 1976, the youth of today, in conjunction with the generation of 1976 is out and about marking yet the importance of the day affectionately known as Youth Day.
June 16 has since known as a Youth Day and after 1994 was made a public holiday.The day profusely dates back to the similar day in 1976. It all dawned from Soweto in a march mobilized by South African Students Organization to oppose Afrikaans language being made compulsory as a medium of instruction in schools.
The march, which was supposed to be a peaceful one and heading to Orlando Stadium turned south when the students on their way were met by police who fired tear-gas and live ammunition later on.
With about 3000 to 10 000 students mobilized by SASO, Hector Pieterson (12 years then) whose name comes first when the Soweto uprising is brought into conversation lost his life and his photo is still still emotional. His sister, Antoinette who was only 17-years of age then, had to see him losing his life helplessly with Mbuyisa Mkahubo holding him in his arms.
So, today the day is celebrated, not in tears, but in in a joyful manner, some adults are on schools uniforms. Different occasions in different diverse societies are being held to mark the heroic movement and achievement by the 196 youth.
People of different races are now sharing and engaging in different ideas without violence and students are now doing Afrikaans by choice which, however, those doing it seem to enjoy knowing the language in this diverse society.
Do not forget to let us or share with us your unforgettable moments of this special day.
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