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Cry of Xcluded states that Youth Day, celebrated on June 16, honours the brave actions of young people during the 1976 Soweto Uprising. These students protested against the Apartheid government’s decision to make Afrikaans the main language in schools. Their courage and sacrifices helped end apartheid and create a democratic South Africa. However 30 years later, the dreams of those youth remain unfulfilled as systemic inequalities persist.
The 1976 Soweto Uprising was a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history. Thousands of Black students protested against the unfair language policy in schools, facing brutal police violence. This event brought international attention to the cruelty of apartheid and encouraged global opposition to its racist policies.
Youth Day honours these young heroes and celebrates their resilience. However, celebrating Youth Day feels deceptive when many young people still suffer from poverty, unemployment, and systemic exclusion.
Since apartheid ended, South Africa has made significant progress in building a democratic society with rights and freedoms for all. Despite these advances, deep-seated issues remain. Youth unemployment is a major problem, with over 45% of young South Africans jobless, millions affected by poverty and hopelessness.
Economic exclusion is a daily reality for many young South Africans. Lack of job opportunities and support for small businesses leaves them with limited options, fueling poverty and social instability. High levels of crime and substance abuse in marginalized communities highlight broader social issues. These problems often face harsh punishments instead of supportive solutions.
We call on young people to unite and demand the government to:
- Invest in job-creating alternatives: Focus on job creation, support small businesses, and provide training for young people.
- Implement a Basic Income Grant: Introduce a decent basic income grant of at least R1750 per month.
- End budget cuts: Mobilize state resources to boost the economy.
- Tax the rich: Stop profit shifting and implement a small wealth tax on the richest to address inequality and hunger.
As we commemorate Youth Day, we must remember that the youth are the backbone of our nation. Their empowerment is crucial for South Africa’s progress. Together, we can build a future where every young South African has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Issued by the Cry of the Xcluded
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The Cry of the Xcluded was launched by the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and the Assembly of the Unemployed (AoU) on 12 February 2020 to unite the working class – employed and unemployed – in the struggle for jobs, services, and dignity.
