This year South Africans mark 30 years since the historic election of Wednesday, 27th of April 1994.

This year South Africans mark 30 years since the historic election of Wednesday, 27th of April 1994. The commemoration of this milestone is among the most important public events in South Africa’s post-democratic history, and requires celebration, reflection and thought forward.

Although we have made remarkable progress since 1994, the spectre of inequality, poverty and unemployment remains one of the most glaring impediments to South Africa’s goal of national unity and social cohesion.

We also dare not forget the terrible past from which we have come, nor should we forget the many sacrifices made by patriots to ensure our democracy and freedom. Our history abounds with selfless patriots who paved the way for a democratic and free South Africa.

This day now known as Freedom Day is commemorated every year to honour those unsung heroes and heroines who fought for our freedom and paved the way for an equal, representative, non-racial nation. During the month, we also reflect on the progress made over our democratic journey thus far and consider how we can further strengthen our democracy.

Freedom month was launched on 09 April together with the unveiling of the 30 years of Freedom logo at Freedom Park Museum in Pretoria by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture under the theme: 30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth. Let us together take stock of the progress, milestones and challenges made thus far in the Heritage sector – Reach us out at heritage@nhc.org.za