BEYOND THE BORDER
Nelson Mandela played a
crucial role in this
process.
Leaving
prison after 27
years, he was
quoted saying ―As
I walked out the
door toward the
gate that would lead
to my freedom, I
knew if I didn't
leave my
I cannot tell you anything
about Nelson Mandela
the freedom fighter, the
prisoner or the
politician. What I do
know is that I grew up
in South Africa – a
country characterized
by racism and the
unfortunate
consequences
always come
about
when
people
consider
themselves better,
bitterness
and hatred
behind, I'd still
be in prison.‖
Dr. Elanie Steyn
A game-changing moment for South
Africa and reconciliation across
different cultural groups was
probably the moment Mandela
stepped onto the rugby field during
the final of the Rugby World Cup in
1995 wearing the captain, Francois
Pienaar‘s, rugby jersey. Walking
4
However, I do remember the day
when the possibility for equality
became a reality for many millions in
the country. April 27, 1994 when
people lined up for kilometers
outside our house to cast their vote –
most for the first time ever, hoping
that would be the day things would
change for the better.
Leaving Robben Island, entering into
negotiations with different roleplayers, involving the international
community in discussions about the
future of the country, Mandela
became an icon for many. Wherever
he went, people showed up in crowds
to see him and be a part of the change
he was implementing in the country.
Page
smarter or superior to others. I can
talk about the effects this thing called
―apartheid‖ had on people‘s lives: the
houses they live in, the food they eat,
the jobs they have and the
opportunities available to them.