Anglican Communion News Service

December 16, the day of reconciliation, will be marked by the launch of a national anti-racism forum, the start of a decade of mobilisation against racism and public pledges by white apolitical South Africans who believe there is a need to acknowledge the damage caused by apartheid and its legacy.

All three developments are a consequence of the recent National Conference on Racism and will be formerly launched at a ceremony to be held in St George's Cathedral and presided over by Anglican Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane.

The anti racism forum has been established by the South African NGO Coalition (SANGOCO) and a 'white' initiative, called "The Home for All Campaign", which evolves from people who believe there is a critical need to continue to eliminate racism and empower disadvantaged communities.

Speaking from Cape Town this week, Archbishop Ndugane urged all South Africans to take our national Day of Racial Reconciliation seriously.

"Racism is so entrenched in our national psyche that we need to take constructive steps to achieve normality. This involves education, firm commitment, research and recognition of the many cultures, languages that make us such a dynamic nation. Racism is not something that will go away of its own accord. We owe it to ourselves and our children to make a difference and it is time for all of us to act."

The archbishop said the positive approach adopted by those who were ready to acknowledge the massive economic, cultural and psychological damage inflicted by apartheid was very heartening. "Even more so, is their acceptance that many whites had actively and passively supported that system and that the damage has not been overcome."

Programme 16 December 2000

National Day of Racial Reconciliation

12.40 Short Prayers of Reconciliation led by Archbishop and other religious leaders

12.50 Pledges from Key Sectors

13.10 Announcement of National Anti-Racism Forum by SANGOCO/CGE/other NGO's

13.30 Millennium Statement and Programme of Action for Decade of Mobilisation against Racism(Dr N Barney Pityana, Chairperson SAHRC)

13.50 Cultural Event

14.05 Vote of Thanks

14.10 Signing of books