The uprisings which occurred on the 16th of June in 1976 continue to be of great significance in Mzansi as they symbolise the revolutionary potential of young people who, through their rebellious nature, can serve as social agents that can effect change.
Usually, the day prompts reflections about the importance of education and the barbarous atrocities that have been committed against black people by the Apartheid regime, but more emphasis needs to be placed on understanding the relationship between the uprisings and the current South African context; If it happens that injustices similar to those faced by Afrikan people in previous generations still continue to affect them today, what would that imply about the role that black youth should play in ensuring that the liberation ideals of their predecessors are achieved?
This is the theme carried by Blaq Aesthetics’ upcoming event; ‘The Nu Uprising’. “The blood that was selflessly shed for the freedom of the black child yesterday is in the hands of our generation today, to continue were they had left off, or betray it as a vain sacrifice. We are the youth that will not betray nor defer from the dream of total and complete freedom for the black child! The Nu Uprising represents the celebration, the remembrance and continuation of the struggle of our former generation.” – Blaq Aesthetics
This Youth Day commemoration will be held on the 15th of June 2014 at Credo Mutwa Village (central western Jabavu, Soweto) and will feature an art exhibition as well as live entertainment from performers of Reggae, Dancehall, Afro-Jazz and Hip-hop music as well as poetry. There will be performances by Jeremiah Fyah Ises, Faya Uman, Chantty Natural,Makhafula Vilakazi, Poetic Justice, Skado, Yellow Mahn, Gaba Ngendaba, Blaq Faith, Chef and the Kitchen (Afrosoul/Jazz Band), Bopha, Korus, Sabar, Sparks, Chak D, FLO, Prophet JD, Kumkani Uzasi. Selectors on the line up include DJ Ill Vibe and DJ Farai M. The gates open at 11:00 AM and close at 12:00 PM.
About Blaq Aesthetics
Blaq Aesthetics is an arts organisation based in Soweto which has existed since 2008. Their areas of activity include facilitating events & workshops related to arts, literature and poetry with the end objective of improving and developing the arts community or industry of Soweto.
For additional information contact:
Sabar Mnyamane Rampai: 073 193 8305
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