How the Freedom Charter can inspire all South Africans, 70 years after its declaration
SIVA NAIDOO
I WRITE about the Freedom Charter as an activist and social commentator. My insights are largely based on my personal experiences with inequality, poverty and marginalisation. I find after 40 years of my activism that the Freedom Charter is relevant today for South Africans and indeed for the world as it was 70 years ago
This Freedom Charter, adopted on June 26, 1955, during the height of the apartheid struggle in South Africa, remains a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. Its vision of a non-racial, non- sexist, democratic, and equitable society continues to resonate, not only in South Africa but also among marginalised communities worldwide.
Seventy years after its declaration, the charter’s principles offer a blueprint for addressing systemic inequality, fostering inclusivity, and empowering marginalised groups. This column explores how the Freedom Charter’s ideals can inspire marginalised communities today.
The Freedom Charter emerged as a response to the oppressive apartheid regimes policies which institutionalised racial segregation and denied basic rights to the majority of South Africans. Drafted through extensive consultations with ordinary citizens, the charter articulated a vision of a society where “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white”.
Its 10 clauses addressed issues such as equal rights, land redistribution, access to education, and economic justice, reflecting the collective aspirations of a nation yearning for freedom.
The charter’s creation was a revolutionary act, as it challenged the apartheid state’s legitimacy and provided a roadmap for a democratic future. Its adoption by the Congress of the People in 1955, in Kliptown, marked a turning point in the anti-apartheid struggle, galvanising resistance and inspiring generations of activists from all national groups.
One of the Freedom Charter’s most enduring legacies is its emphasis on equality. The charter declared that “all national groups shall have equal rights” and that “all shall be equal before the law”. These principles challenge the structures of privilege and exclusion that perpetuate inequality in many societies.
In a world where racial, ethnic, and religious minorities often face marginalisation, the charter’s vision of a society free from prejudice and discrimination remains a powerful inspiration. In fact, most governments throughout the world are disconnected from voters. In South Africa, the winner of the last national election in 2024 was the "non voting block" reflecting 60% of registered voters who did not vote, demonstrating the disconnection between political leaders and voters and a simple reality that most people feel marginalized.
Much of the Freedom Charter is reflected in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. Our governance model, policies and even legislation is subject to the interrogation of the highest court in the land. All of our constitutional context is derived from the Freedom Charter.
The charter’s assertion that “the people shall govern” highlights the importance of participatory democracy. It envisions a society where all citizens, regardless of race or background, have a voice in decision-making processes. This principle is particularly relevant for those that perceive themselves as marginalised, and who who are often excluded from political power and representation.
In contemporary contexts, the charter’s emphasis on participatory democracy can inspire efforts to enhance civic engagement and empower marginalised groups. By embracing these participatory approaches, communities can reclaim their agency and contribute to shaping a more inclusive and equitable society where we strive to become stronger together.
As communities, only an inclusive one can give full application to the Freedom Charter and our Constitution. The dream to become one community instead of a fragmented one, is the fundamental step to dispel marginalisation. This step will enable us to breathe life into our legacy and the intrinsic value of the legacy of the charter and our Constitution in enabling an inclusive participatory democracy.
The Freedom Charter’s call for economic justice - ensuring that “the people shall share in the country’s wealth” - resonates deeply with marginalised communities facing systemic poverty and inequality. The charter’s vision of land redistribution, access to education, and fair employment opportunities provides a framework for addressing the structural barriers that perpetuate economic disparity.
For marginalised communities, the charter’s socio-economic principles can inspire advocacy for policies that promote equitable access to resources and opportunities.
The Freedom Charter’s relevance extends beyond South Africa, offering valuable lessons for marginalised communities throughout the world. Its emphasis on unity, equality, and justice provides a universal framework for addressing the challenges faced by marginalised groups.
Donald Trump and Elon Musk are parading on human rights and international law with impunity. The rise of high tech and digital media platforms and a right wing billionaire class who want to usurp the world order is current and real. It is unravelling before our eyes and many of us don't know how to respond. The South African experience offers the lesson of a democracy achieved through dialogue and an attempt at the principle of Oneness with varying levels of success but certainly without war. Our foundation is the Freedom Charter and the value of constitutionalism.
Seventy years after its declaration, the Freedom Charter remains foundational to hope and a source of inspiration for marginalised communities. We must become living examples of eradicating poverty and inequality by building a governance model based on social justice, for us to truly inspire Africa and the world.
This enduring legacy is in our hands to manifest into real politic. Documents and charters do not bring about change. Active citizenry and a strong belief that our success as a nation depends on us choosing to be one in our struggles, will achieve much more than if we are fragmented.
The Freedom Charter’s enduring legacy reminds us that the struggle for justice is ongoing. As we reflect on its relevance today, we are called to actio - to build a world where the ideals of the charter are not just aspirational but realised. In the words of the charter itself: “These freedoms we will fight for, side by side, throughout our lives, until we have won our liberty.”
Siva Naidoo is an activist and Ubuntu and Human Values Trainer. Email him at Sivanaidoo247@gmail.com
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.