I had to fight to take history as a subject at high school until matric.
The course I initially wanted to take, which included history, was not available. When I opted for another course with history, without physical science, my teachers were concerned that I was limiting my career choices. I know they were looking out for my best interests. They tried dissuading me, but I was steadfast.
I was passionate about history, and wanted to learn more. I already knew I was going to pursue a career in journalism and I wanted to get a good understanding of history to empower me with broader knowledge of people and events that have shaped the world as we know it today. And so I studied history until matric.
Yesterday, that history student came full circle. I conducted a tour of the 1860 Heritage Centre for the first time. I loved telling the South African story from indenture to apartheid to democracy. History encompasses our identity, our struggles, our truth and our emotions. It roots us as individuals and communities. The exhibitions at the 1860 Heritage Centre, curated by the exceptionally talented Selvan Naidoo, are immersive and intercative. Some are a jarring reminder of our brutal history while others show how our people nurtured the beauty of life even under turbulent times.
I experienced another full circle moment during the tour. As we discussed the role of journalists and particularly The Leader newspaper, the lead story from that edition in 1986 carried a byline I am all too familiar with – Gary Govindsamy. A journalist who has been shaped by the political struggle, Gary went on to become my editor at SABC Radio News, and played a key role in shaping my career, with his red pen! I hope he is smiling as he reads this while enjoying his retirement.
Thank you to the wonderful group that engaged with me on the tour yesterday, and please forgive me for any shortcomings. My heartfelt gratitude to the Board and Management of the 1860 Heritage Centre for taking me under your wings and allowing me to play a small role in telling our people’s story.
“History does not belong to us; we belong to it.”
— Hans-Georg Gadamer
PS. Prof. Brij Maharaj – this one is for you. I needed that reminder to get blogging again.
