Hon. S. Thakur-Rajbansi stated that, South Africa ranks among the 10 most culturally diverse countries in the world based on various considerations, including: level of ethnic diversity; number of immigrants; number of spoken languages; number of religious beliefs; number of political parties; level of religious freedom; LGBT rights and freedom and Level of personal liberty.

These categories are further divided into sub-categories, to ultimately determine the level of the country’s cultural diversity.
South Africans celebrate Heritage Day, but not many know the history behind it. This momentous holiday is connected to various cultures and traditions we enjoy.

Heritage Day was initially known as “Shaka Day” or “Shaka’s Day”, a day dedicated to commemorating the legendary King Shaka Zulu on the presumed date of his death in 1828. Shaka Zulu played an important role in uniting different Zulu clans in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Therefore, thousands of people gather at the King Shaka Memorial on the 24th of September each year to pay tribute to the great Zulu King.
Heritage Day also reflects our cultural identity, its celebration and meaning. Spaces are created for the affirmation, recognition and even exploration of diverse identities on Heritage Day.

Recently, Heritage Day has evolved and become famous as with National Braai Day. Some call it Shisa Nyama or Ukosa, while others call it a braai. Communities gather around a fire, enjoying good food, good company and celebrating our culture and heritage with friends, family, and loved ones.

As we celebrate this day, our children and grandchildren need to learn about the rich history, stories about how our ancestors came to South Africa as indentured labourers and made a good life for themselves. Each one needs to tell their story so that our youth connect to their roots.
In South Africa heritage plays an important role in promoting cultural diversity, social cohesion, reconciliation, peace, economic development and moral regeneration. In every community there are living human treasures who possess a high degree of knowledge, skills and history pertaining to different aspects of our diverse living heritage. It is therefore important for us to reclaim, restore and preserve these and when necessary to address challenges our communities are facing.

We take this opportunity to wish you all well on this Heritage Day from the Minority Front team.