Minister Nathi Mthethwa on the Anti-Racism CD Compilation

The recent upsurge of racist acts in society calls on all South Africans to help to build a united, racism-free, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous society.

Miriam Makeba in her seminal piece, titled “African Sunset”, demonstrates the power that art and music can have. Hugh Masekela with his powerful song, “Stimela”, also illustrates the power of the arts to mobilise society to act against the ills that challenge society. Mafokate’s song, “Don’t call me Kaffir”, introduces younger generations to the fight against racism. This CD aims to encourage every part of society to play its part in the war against racism.

This CD compilation is one of a number of musical performances and products that the department of Arts and Culture are championing as part of the struggle against racism. In fact, the role of the arts and artists is not confined to music or musicians alone, but will include a poetry anthology against racism and a visual arts poster exhibition against racism.

The arts are some of the most powerful tools that can be harnessed to raise levels of thinking to a higher consciousness. The strategy of the South African government is not confined to the arts alone, and the cabinet has also approved a national action plan against racism for discussion. There is legislation on the cards to combat racism. This is a multi-pronged strategy, which also includes a number of sectoral summits and the drafting of a national plan against racism.