What Heritage Day means to me: a moment to pause and honour where we come from
On Heritage Day, we celebrate the strength in our differences, the beauty of our customs, and the shared history that makes South Africa a rich mosaic of cultures.
Image: Ron AI
Heritage Day is more than just a day off from work or school; it’s a moment to pause and honour where we come from. It reminds us that our roots matter, that our culture, language, food, music, and traditions all tell the story of who we are.
It’s a day that encourages us to slow down, reflect on our heritage, and celebrate the diverse cultures and customs that have shaped us.
In my family, Heritage Day is marked by the familiar smells of pap, a staple food, served with the spicy kick of chakalaka and sizzling wors on the braai; simple dishes, yet full of meaning.
Food has always had a way of bringing people together, and on this day, our home becomes a place of laughter, music, and shared memories.
While I come from a Zulu background and wear traditional attire proudly, I’ve come to understand that Heritage Day is not just about celebrating one culture; it’s about honouring the full tapestry of South African identity.
From isiXhosa beadwork to Cape Malay curries, from Afrikaans songs to Indian spice blends, every culture in this country has something beautiful to offer. That’s what makes this day so special.
There’s something powerful about seeing people from all backgrounds dressed in their cultural clothing, dancing to traditional music, speaking their home languages without shame. It reminds me that our diversity is not a weakness, it’s a strength.
In our household, we often spend part of the day sharing stories. My elders talk about how they grew up, the customs that guided them, and the importance of respect, family, and community.
These conversations are where the real heritage lies, not just in what we wear or eat, but in the values passed down through generations.
Music also plays a big role. We listen to everything from maskandi and gospel to amapiano, because Heritage Day isn’t just about looking back, it’s also about recognising how our cultures continue to grow and evolve.
For me, Heritage Day is a reminder that being South African means more than carrying an ID; it means carrying a history. It’s about knowing where you come from, embracing who you are, and respecting where others come from, too.
In a world that often pressures us to blend in, Heritage Day gives us permission to stand out and stand proud.
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