Looking Back (Black History Month 1988)

In the country of South Africa there exists a condition of racial injustice that enables 5 million people who are mostly white, to rule over 24 million people, who are mostly black. This condition has come to be known as apartheid.

Apartheid, according to Webster's is defined to mean apartness. Apartheid is not freedom of choice or freedom of voice. it is not life, liberty or the pursuit of happiness.

Under apartheid you will not demonstrate for a cause, whether that cause be wrong or right. You will not own a business or share in its profit under this condition (apartheid). The government will or will not educate you under this condition (apartheid).

The races will not be allowed to mingle or intermix under this condition (apartheid). Your offspring will be rich and have freedom of choice or they will be poor with no freedom and no choice.

A black man will never employ or work over a white man. A white man will never work under a black man. A
black man will never live in a white neighborhood. A black man will never use transportation, facilities or conveniences designated for white people.

Further, this condition doesn't allow for security,safety or protection of the individual, be they in the category of black or white. This condition (apartheid) promotes riots and mass bloodshed. it causes senseless deaths and tragedies. It fosters resentment towards the government and the governments elected officials. It creates ever-increasing tensions between whites and blacks.

All these things mentioned are parts of the machine that perpetuate apartheid. Apartheid is an official policy of racial segregation promulgated in the Republic of South Africa, that subjects 24 million blacks to 5 million whites.

( I am glad apartheid ended in my lifetime and my children's lifetime. This letter came from one of my college essays that my English professor from the University of Maryland,European Division. I dedicate it (essay) this year as we celebrate another year and month of "Black History Month" founded by the great Mr. Carter G. Woodson to those who never were able to see "Apartheid" end but lived for that hope. And it is dedicated to those who will live to tell the story and the end of this quote is tell the story to live, not sure of the author. Happy Black History Month to one and all...all over this world.)