This month marks the 40th anniversary of the Soweto uprising, when students marched against Afrikaans being made a compulsory medium of instruction in schools.
The students were attacked by heavily armed police officers who fired teargas and fired at them. This resulted in widespread resistance that turned into an uprising against the government.
One of the most memorable moments is the photograph taken of Hector Pieterson being carried through the streets after being shot. June 16 has significance to people and what they associate with Youth Day.
Paul Dlamini: The importance of the day is for the youth and a reminder of Hector Pieterson’s death.
Khensani Wison: Youth Day symbolises the efforts the youth of 1976 contributed against the struggle and fighting against learning in a language they did not understand.
Zama Bhuthelezi: 16 June symbolises our rights and freedom. I think it is a cool holiday, I acknowledge what the youth did for our generation.
Khalil Rassool: It represents the massacre of the day. It was a very sad day and also a remembrance of Hector Pieterson and what he was fighting for. It is sad it cost him his life.
Tame–Lee Beck: I know that on the day a protest took place involving pupils who did not want to be taught in a language they did not understand. I understand why they were protesting.
Robyn Moore: I understand why the youth of 1976 were protesting and believe people have the right to choose the language they want to be taught in.
Mpho Mgoepe: To a young woman like me, Youth Day symbolises change, power, unity and the youth fighting for what they believe in. Freedom was achieved.
Ndumiso Yende: I believe that currently the youth don’t pay enough attention to the importance of the day.
Marco Oostehuizen: I don’t really remember the significance of 16 June but it is great to have a public holiday and do what you want to do.
Tshepo Mofokeng: 16 June symbolises the student uprising of 1976 and a turning point in South African politics. I don’t think the youth of today truly understand the significance of the day.
Carl Leser: The day symbolises freedom and what the youth today can do as opposed to the youth back then. The history of the day must be more publicised to educate the youth of today.
Lynette Pretorius: What I know is that the youth then stood up for themselves. Their efforts were not in vain, it means something today and was worth it in the end.
Anto Mashile: 16 June means a lot to me, it brought a lot of changes in the lives of the youth today and then.
