Not many people understand the real significance of or meaning
behind Heritage Day which is celebrated annually on 24
September. For some, it is an opportunity to simply get together
with family and friends for a braai, but does this take into
account the multitude of cultures that make up our “rainbow
nation”? What is Heritage Day? Heritage Day is a national
holiday where all South Africans celebrate their cultural
heritage and embrace their diverse traditions and values that
contribute to our “rainbow nation”. Dr Ntsoakae Phatlane from
Unisa’s History Department shares his thoughts on what Heritage
Day means to him: “Our heritage is very unique and precious
because it helps us to define our cultural identity and it
therefore lies at the heart of our spiritual wellbeing and it
has the power to build our nation. Our heritage has the
potential to affirm our diverse cultures and in so doing shape
our national character as a “rainbow nation” at peace with
itself. In short our heritage celebrates our achievements