C H A P T E R T W E N T Y N I N E
For the past two weeks, the grounds of Soweto were alive with a vibrant energy that had been absent for months. Our victory at the debate was the talk of the town.
Our families and the community came to our school to congratulate us. Among the crowd, Mrs Dlamini stood with a proud smile on her face. The win had been a culmination of hard work, late afternoon sessions and countless hours spent perfecting arguments. Thanks to her, today we wore our victory like a badge of honor.
Although the debate competition was far from over, our school advancing to the next round was a historic win for Soweto. The victory was not just ours, it belonged to every single black person in South Africa. Our school now represents the dreams and aspirations of a generation yearning for change. We were not just advancing in a competition, we were advancing a cause. For the first time in Soweto, the conversations were not about our daily struggles or fears. The conversations were about possibility. Is it possible for us to get equality and justice, one achievement at a time? Can we shape South Africa with our intellect, voices, and determination?
An old lady who lived a few houses down our street offered Mbuyiseni and I words of encouragement. She spoke with a light in her eyes that I had never seen before. She spoke as if we had fulfilled her dreams. Dreams that had once been buried. Dreams of people who had endured so much and had given up hope.
This debate has brought me a new sense of determination. The determination to carry forward the legacy of those who had fought before us. My dad's legacy. The legacy of Zenande's parents who never got the chance to see their daughter grow. It has become more than just about winning. It was to prove that we also belong in South Africa. Our black voices should be heard and included.
As we stood on the streets, basking in the glory of our achievement, we knew this was only a step forward. We still had a challenging journey ahead of us, with obstacles we were ready to overcome, no matter what. Whatever comes next, we will face it with courage.
To the people who have been underestimated and oppressed for too long,
Our ancestors who died on the battlefield,
And to the people who were told they could never make history,
This one is for you.
YOU ARE READING
Black & White
Historical FictionAs Ayize, a black girl from Soweto, and Norman, a white boy, navigate the dangerous waters of their interracial relationship in apartheid South Africa, they face brutal consequences of their love. Will their story survive in a society built on racia...
