Pretoria – Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has called on South Africans to be agents of transformation for a society that is just and equal.
He was speaking in Pretoria on Tuesday at the launch of a book on Freedom Park: A Palace of Healing.
“We dedicate the launch of this book to all the heroes and heroines in this country and the rest of the world who sacrificed in many ways and surrendered their lives so that we could be free,” Minister Mthethwa said.
He said Freedom Park and the book was a grim reminder that there are many who paid the ultimate price, carried a heavy burden and triumphed over every form of hardship to ensure that South Africa obtains democracy and freedom in the country.
“As a result, we the living who are beneficiaries must pledge to our political, cultural and spiritual ancestors that we shall remain faithful and loyal to their ideals and principles, united in our diversity,” Minister Mthethwa said.
The launch of the book was an important occasion to remind South Africans that they are the first heirs, in the beginning of the third decade of democracy and freedom.
He encouraged South Africans to tell and write their own stories to contribute to the country’s history.
Minister Mthethwa believed the book would give hope, self-love and restore peace of mind for the reader.
“This book is about such a place that gives a sense of history that will give fresh perspectives and insights about where we are going.
“It is only when you know who you are and where you come from that you can move into the future with confidence,” he said.
Minister Mthethwa said the book will provide the reader with a staggering wealth of ideas and ideals that have come down from South Africa’s history.
“It is a book that provides an intuitive link between the past, present and future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
