Cry Freedom | "Why Do You Call Yourselves White?"

Summary

In this powerful dialogue, the speaker discusses the importance of unity between black and white South Africans, advocating for the recognition of the nation's pluralistic society. The conversation delves into the violence perpetuated by the South African government, contrasting it with the non-violent aspirations of black consciousness leaders like Mandela. The speaker critiques the white government's actions, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and hope in the black community. Through a pointed discussion of race and identity, the speaker challenges societal norms, asserting that the true essence of 'blackness' lies in rejecting imposed negative stereotypes.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker advocates for unity in South Africa, where both black and white people should live together harmoniously.
• 😀 The speaker believes South Africa is a plural society where all segments of the community contribute to its growth.
• 😀 The speaker discusses the government's violence against black citizens, calling it 'naked terrorism.'
• 😀 The speaker argues that the violence caused by the South African government, such as police brutality and indirect violence through starvation, is worse than the charges against the accused men.
• 😀 The speaker criticizes the white government's failure to address the hardships faced by black citizens.
• 😀 The speaker mentions key figures in the black liberation movement like Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Govan Mbeki, highlighting their selfless struggle for black rights.
• 😀 The speaker dismisses accusations that these leaders advocate violence, emphasizing that they are fighting for justice and equality for black people.
• 😀 The speaker insists that the black consciousness movement is not seeking violence but aims for confrontation with the unjust system to bring about change.
• 😀 The speaker stresses the importance of confrontation to challenge the government's unjust actions, without necessarily promoting violence.
• 😀 The speaker defends the term 'black' in 'Black is Beautiful,' explaining that it is a rejection of negative associations and a way to assert pride and humanity, even when society labels blackness negatively.

Q & A

What is the meaning behind the statement 'South Africa is a plural society'?

The statement suggests that South Africa is a society made up of multiple racial and cultural groups, and each group has contributions to make towards the country's development. The speaker emphasizes the need for black and white communities to coexist peacefully.

What does the speaker mean by 'naked terrorism' in the context of the South African government?

The speaker refers to the government's actions as 'naked terrorism' due to the violent methods they employ against black communities, including police brutality, firing on unarmed civilians, and the indirect violence caused by poverty and living conditions in townships and transit camps.

Why does the speaker believe the statement 'naked terrorism' is more valid than the charges against the men in the dock?

The speaker argues that the systemic violence and oppression faced by black South Africans is more harmful than the words spoken by the accused individuals. They claim that the government's violent actions and neglect of the black community are forms of terrorism that go unpunished.

Who are the leaders mentioned by the speaker as being banned and imprisoned?

The speaker specifically refers to prominent anti-apartheid leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Govan Mbeki, all of whom were imprisoned for their involvement in the struggle against the South African government.

What is the common factor between the leaders mentioned by the speaker?

The common factor among the leaders is their selfless dedication to the black liberation movement and their efforts to advance the struggle for black South Africans, despite being banned or imprisoned.

How does the speaker respond to the suggestion that advocating violence is part of the black consciousness movement?

The speaker clarifies that while the movement demands confrontation with the apartheid system, it does not necessarily advocate violence. The goal is to confront and challenge the hardships and oppression faced by the black community, not to incite violence.

What is the speaker's stance on the government's actions towards black South Africans?

The speaker asserts that the South African government does very little good for the black community, to the point where it is not worth commenting on. They criticize the government's oppressive policies and lack of genuine efforts to address the needs of black South Africans.

Why does the speaker believe it is important for black South Africans to confront their hardships?

The speaker emphasizes that black South Africans should not passively accept their suffering. Instead, they should confront these hardships in order to create hope, build a sense of their own humanity, and fight for their rightful place in society.

What does the term 'black consciousness' represent, according to the speaker?

Black consciousness represents the movement for black South Africans to reclaim their humanity and sense of identity, independent of white influence. It is about building hope and strength within the black community, without relying on the approval or contributions of white South Africans.

Why does the speaker use the term 'black is beautiful' despite the negative associations with 'black' in society?

The speaker uses 'black is beautiful' as a way to challenge the negative connotations associated with 'black' in society, such as its links to bad things like 'black market' or 'black sheep'. By reclaiming the term 'black', they are empowering the black community and redefining what it means to be black in a positive light.