RACE/CLASS/CULTURE SOUTH AFRICA
VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
FALL 2016
A WORD FROM THE CONFERENCE CHAIR
Welcome! You are a participant in the 2016 Race/Class/Culture: South Africa virtual conference. This conference examines the historical development of South Africa from pre-colonial times to the present with a focus on the economic, social, political and cultural forces that have shaped contemporary South Africa. In addition, it explores issues of race, class, and culture during the apartheid and post-apartheid eras. Thank for providing us the opportunity to learn about your research on a wide range of topics relating to South Africa. Please enjoy this opportunity for intellectual engagement and thoughtful reflection. -Rebecca Robertson
TABLE OF CONTENTS VIRTUAL CONFERENCE................................................................................................................................................ 1 A Word from the Conference Chair..............................................................................................................................2 Comments from Conference Technical Support..........................................................................................................2 Wildlife and Resource Conservation............................................................................................................................... 6 Efforts towards Conservation in South Africa, Cassie Yingling....................................................................................6 Conservation Efforts of the Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis) in South Africa and Abroad, Joshua Ellison....................6 The Horn: A State of Emergency, Veronica Piña Aguilar.............................................................................................6 Growing Cities, Shrinking Forests: How Deforestation Effects Water Quality and the People in the Towns and Cities of South Africa, Sierra Monroe..................................................................................................................................... 7 An Uprising Change to Eliminate Poaching in South Africa, Janely Bonilla-Mendoza................................................7 An Examination of the Relictual Heel Walkers of South AFrica With a Focus on Human Interactions, Samuel Degray......................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Art and Literature............................................................................................................................................................. 7 The Beautiful Inspiration behind South African Graffiti Art, Arri Sanders.....................................................................8 How where different forms of art used during Apartheid? Jacklynn Delgado..............................................................8 Beyond Sopie’s Eyes: Post Apartheid South Africa as Seen by Artist Mary Sibande, Casey Barton..........................8 The Relationship Between Poetry and Apartheid: THe Role of Poetic Expression In the South African Resistance Movement, Lily Camara............................................................................................................................................... 8 Health.............................................................................................................................................................................. 9 The Heart of South Africa: A Brief Look at the World’s First Heart Transplant, Elizabeth Mulligan..............................9 Mother to Child Transfer of HIV/AIDS in South AfricA, Cynthia Ruiz...........................................................................9 AIDS: The Elephant in the Room, Bianca Mang..........................................................................................................9 History of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, Kimberly Vasquez..............................................................................................9 Traditional Cultures....................................................................................................................................................... 10 Zulu Culture:“Indlamu” The War Dance, Onaja Waki.................................................................................................10 Culture Stays, The Dance Changes, Sineva Hosea..................................................................................................10 Bead Making In South Africa, Kimberly Fisher..........................................................................................................10 Lobola: Here to Stay?, Daisy Alvarez......................................................................................................................... 11 Education....................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Education Reform: Product of Apartheid, Ayla Diliberti..............................................................................................11 Prominent people.......................................................................................................................................................... 12 Saartjie Baartman: A Fundamental ‘Wonder’ of Colonial Exploitation and Racism, Dominique Crawford................12 Prime Evil:The Legacy of Aparthed, Bryanna Valencia..............................................................................................12 Mandela’s Story: Man or Myth, Brianna Addington....................................................................................................12 Sports............................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Surfing: The South African pastime’s History and Cultural Impact, Jack Heebink.....................................................13 Zulu StickFighting: An Analysis of Zulu Masculinity, Kekoa Blasedell.......................................................................13 Surfing South Africa, Joshua Hayes.......................................................................................................................... 13 Government and Politics............................................................................................................................................... 14 Conspiracy Theory No More: Project Coast, Benjamin Maceda................................................................................14 Media............................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Literature Review of South African Media, Angel Lomeli...........................................................................................14 The trials and tribulations of South African free speech before and after the Apartheid, Cameron Rodriguez..........15 The Institutionalization of Censorship Boards During Apartheid and their Impacts Today, Joanne Gallagher..........15 Suppressing a Million Voices: Censorship and Resisitance in Apartheid South Africa, Nikita Nunnink.....................15 Traditional Medicine...................................................................................................................................................... 15 Sangomas: traditional medicine in post-apartheid South Africa, Christina Chapman................................................16 Social Movements ........................................................................................................................................................ 16 The Freedom in South Africa: Analysis of the Black Concsiosness Movement in Liberating the Minds of Black South Africans, Jibril Bob..................................................................................................................................................... 16
Security.......................................................................................................................................................................... 16 The Many Arms of the Law: The Rise of Private Security In South Africa, Ronnie Zaragosa...................................17 Necklacing as Popular Justice in the Anti-Apartheid Movement, Valerie Tepetlanco................................................17 Places............................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Remembering District Six: Forced Removals, Demolition, and Apartheid Activism, Zoe Tinseth..............................17 Popular Culture............................................................................................................................................................. 18 Smarteez: Power in Fashion, Grace McKendry.........................................................................................................18 The Tikoloshe and its Inluence on Popular Culture in South AFrica, Wilson Hartsock..............................................18
WILDLIFE AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION
research on the reintroduction of lions into reserves and their impact on other populations of organisms, along with groups and organizations opinions and reactions toward the reintroduction will be necessary. Through research, I hope to gain a better understanding on the conservation efforts in South Africa, as well as the overall impact of reintroducing lions into South Africa.
CONSERVATION EFFORTS OF THE BLACK RHINO ( DICEROS BICORNIS ) IN SOUTH AFRICA AND ABROAD , JOSHUA ELLISON
EFFORTS TOWARDS CONSERVATION IN SOUTH AFRICA , CASSIE YINGLING ABSTRACT When one thinks of Africa, usually the Safari comes to mind, and not long after you think of the “African Five”- lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo. It is assumed that these species were chosen as the African Five because of their size, or beauty, or ferocity, however this is not the case. In reality, the African Five was a term coined by big game hunters on the basis that they are all “difficult to bag”. Although currently there are bans on rhino horn trade, ivory trade, and poaching in South Africa, many groups and organizations are protesting to get these bans lifted or lightened. The resistance for conservation is ever growing, and therefore the push towards conservation needs to be resilient as ever before. The purpose of this study is to look into the reintroduction of lions (Panthera leo) into reservation areas in an attempt understand the efforts towards increasing and conserving the lions in South Africa, whether these efforts are successful, and if there are other measures that can be introduced to strengthen conservation efforts. In order to achieve these goals,
ABSTRACT It has been estimated that before humans became involved with the Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis), there were around 850,000 of them. In 1960, there were only 100,000 of them left. By 1995, their population was down to under a 1,000. After extreme conservation efforts, their numbers were estimated to be on the rise with approximately 4,880, but that number has started to slow due to the increase in poaching for the rhino’s horn. This presentation will show, through a literature review, the struggles and successes of conservation efforts in South Africa. How private ranches and reserves are allowed to have approved hunts on certain rhinos to help with genetic diversity, ideas presented on opening the market of legal rhino horn trade to make poaching less advantageous, how science is trying to help the Black Rhino species through genetic testing, and what outside countries are doing to help via education, confiscation of horns, and prosecution of rhino horn smugglers.
THE HORN: A STATE OF EMERGENCY , VERONICA PIÑA AGUILAR ABSTRACT South Africa is close to losing one of its renowned giants. The population of the two species of rhinoceros in South Africa has been dwindling throughout the years, the main reason is because of poaching from over the years. Rhinoceros have been one of the various important symbols to South Africa. Dating back to the 1860s, the rhinoceros population was very healthy but now, the future of their population is becoming unknown. The rhinoceros in South Africa are being exploited by foreign countries beliefs and are being killed faster than they can reproduce. While South Africa has put conservation effects into play, trying to fix what damage has been
done from over the years has become an uphill battle with a small window of success. With the help of African field guide books, websites of conservation organizations and research articles, we will better understand the basic information on the two species of rhinoceros in South Africa, why they are being poached and what measures are being taken for conservation. Lastly, this project aims to elaborate the importance of conserving these gentle giants and the positive effects that can be seen from this action.
GROWING CITIES, SHRINKING FORESTS: HOW DEFORESTATION EFFECTS WATER QUALITY AND THE PEOPLE IN THE TOWNS AND CITIES OF SOUTH AFRICA , SIERRA MONROE ABSTRACT The growing cities in South Africa call for a high amount of land, and the forests are standing in the way. Deforestation is the clearing of trees, and the making of cleared land. When deforestation occurs, there are many side effects to the quality and supply of the water. A major one occurring in South African is the sediment runoff into the water systems and the growth of invasive species that have a higher water uptake than the native plants. Due to deforestation and high human impact the water quality has decreased to alarming lows while the sediment amounts and heavy metal levels increase. With low water quality, the people in the smaller towns and cities are taking action. Along with the Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD), and the Working for Water Program, the important steps toward reducing the drastic impacts of deforestation on their land and getting their fresh water source back are being taken.
AN UPRISING CHANGE TO ELIMINATE POACHING IN SOUTH AFRICA , JANELY BONILLA-MENDOZA ABSTRACT The main objective of my project is to bring awareness and knowledge to public in order create a dramatic change over the crises of poaching in South Africa. My main focus is on terrestrial mammals being poached for their ivory, specifically rhinos and elephants in South Africa. The urging question is, what are the measures being taken in reducing the poaching of ivory and how to reduce the demand for
it? From this project I hope and aspire and gather concrete knowledge and evidence in gaining valuable knowledge and insight behind the sickening cruelty of poaching and various ways to bring attention and solutions to the issue. I expect to gain Insight on the poaching trade on the reasoning behind it, the value of ivory, the cost in putting a stop to poaching, and the impacts it has caused on the species.
AN EXAMINATION OF THE RELICTUAL HEEL WALKERS OF SOUTH AFRICA WITH A FOCUS ON HUMAN INTERACTIONS , SAMUEL DEGRAY ABSTRACT The Cape region of South Africa boasts one of the most unique ecological communities in the world. The Cape is one of the few homes of an ancient order of insects, the Heel Walkers, formally called the Mantophasmatodea. They are only found in southern Africa, and in South Africa they are restricted to the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces, and are particularly common around the Cape Town region. This research project will analyze the extent and nature of human interactions with the Mantophasmatodea in South Africa. The grand majority of sources will be academic literature, both from biological and anthropological sources. A better understanding of Mantophasmatodea-human interactions is necessary for the future preservation of the order, and may prove useful in attaining further knowledge of both the Mantophasmatodea and the people of South Africa’s Cape region.
ART AND LITERATURE
resistance or to make their voices heard. I will accomplish this by using images of different art forms, books that have paintings of artist during apartheid, as well as videos and newspapers from the time of apartheid. I think that the insight I will gain from my research is how the people of South Africa made their voices be heard no matter how hard it was for them to protest against their government.
BEYOND SOP H IE’S EYES: POST APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICA AS SEEN BY ARTIST MARY SIBANDE , CASEY BARTON
THE BEAUTIFUL INSPIRATION BEHIND SOUTH AFRICAN GRAFFITI ART , ARRI SANDERS ABSTRACT In the early 1980’s the graffiti scene began to become on the rise after the abolition of the apartheid and the rise of hip hop culture. This project investigates the cultural inspiration behind graffiti. The main focus of this presentation will be on the artist whose paintings address the problems with health, education and post-apartheid, and how they wish to inspire the community to make the changes that they wish to see. In addition, this project examines community reactions and opinions about graffiti art with the goal of understanding how graffiti impacts poor or forgotten areas and communities in a motivational way.
HOW WERE DIFFERENT FORMS OF ART USED DURING APARTHEID? JACKLYNN DELGADO ABSTRACT In my research question I will be talking about how south africa had different forms of art to symbolize apartheid. As well as how they used it as a form of
ABSTRACT Mary Sibande is a modern artist who is representing and interacting with cultural history in post-apartheid South Africa. Descending from four generations of domestic workers, Mary Sibande was inspired to utilize their histories to provide a perspective of women during the enforcement of apartheid. From these stories she has created her own alter-ego, Sophie, who is the mirror for her lineage to reflect upon. Mary uses sculpture and fashion design to rebuild classic Domestic Worker uniforms, dressing herself as Sophie. Dressing herself in this way allows Sophie’s imagination to escape the social confine of her uniform while also commenting on the overarching realities of classism, gender and race in South Africa. This presentation focuses on the artist’s deeply symbolic use of color, space and emotion while referencing the historical reality of South Africa that Mary Sibande has encountered throughout her life
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POETRY AND APARTHEID: THE ROLE OF POETIC EXPRESSION IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN RESISTANCE MOVEMENT , LILY CAMARA ABSTRACT Apartheid was a forty-year period characterized by discrimination, civil unrest, and white supremacy. In this presentation, I will analyze how apartheid influenced the development of poetry within the black South African community and how that poetry was used as a mode of resistance to defend against racism, segregation, and oppression. By studying the development of poetry and comparing styles and experiences of various authors through historical documents and poetic works, I will reveal how oppression transformed South African thoughtprocesses, delving deep into the personal reality
experienced by the oppressed. In order to fully understand the South African perspective on apartheid, it’s important to pull information from South African sources to eliminate misconceptions and false assumptions that may be tied to South African feelings. The purpose of this project is to humanize South Africans in a way apartheid never did, to reveal the true depth of anguish they felt as they were systemically oppressed and denied their basic human rights for decades. .
HEALTH
THE HEART OF SOUTH AFRICA: A BRIEF LOOK AT THE WORLD’S FIRST HEART TRANSPLANT , ELIZABETH MULLIGAN ABSTRACT The first hear transplant to be done in the world took place in Cape Town, South Africa. In the book Muriel at the Metropolitan, this groundbreaking operation was mentioned, and shows off a side of South Africa that most do not realize exists. This presentation will go into more detail concerning the surgery, getting the background information of who did it, how it was done, and what methods they used to create such a trailblazing procedure. The world’s first heart transplant was performed in Cape Town, South Africa, at Groote Schuur Hospital in 1967. The main focus will be the events leading up to this historical day and any prior procedures that were similar in nature and may have paved the way for this one. I hope to find most of my information from South African news sources, such as the ones that have been provided for the South African Voices Archive, along with medical journals from both that time period and today,
and other scholarly articles. The idea that something this groundbreaking happened in South Africa, somewhere that most people do not really think of as being that much of a center for technology or medical breakthroughs, is astounding. Not only will this project bring more insight about South African medical advances, but more about the South African culture in general.
MOTHER TO CHILD TRANSFER OF HIV/AIDS IN SOUTH AFRICA , CYNTHIA RUIZ ABSTRACT South Africa has more people living with HIV/AIDS than any other country. What is HIV? It is an infection that occurs when your immune system is badly damaged and you become vulnerable to opportunistic infections. After a person contracts HIV it turns into AIDS. The main objective of the research will be on early mother to child transmission (MTCT). More specifically, I want to know more about how a mother can have a baby without passing on HIV to their children. Treatments the mother can take during pregnancy. Another thing that will be further explored will be on how available treatment is for mothers who are suffering. It would be important to know if HIV/AIDS affect how a mother can breastfeed or if it can be transferred. The data will be collected through Humboldt State University database. Another source that will be used is Google scholar. The articles collected will be peer reviewed. The research presented to the public will help spread the awareness about AIDS in South Africa and to let people know that mothers who have HIV/AIDS might be able to have a child without passing it on to their child.
AIDS: THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM , BIANCA MANG ABSTRACT Over the span of about thirty years, a resulting estimate of 7 million people have become infected with HIV. This presentation will examine why South Africa has the largest population of AIDS and how HIV has impacted communities in South Africa. The scope of this presentation will track the progression of AIDS from the birth of apartheid to present day South Africa. Through an analysis of scholarly media, ranging from published journal articles to filmed documentaries, a narrative tracks the development of HIV and its effect on society. Although it is clear that this issue is grim in every sense, there might be hope to significantly reduce the future population of people infected with HIV.
HISTORY OF HIV/AIDS IN SOUTH AFRICA, KIMBERLY VASQUEZ ABSTRACT Since the 1980’s, millions upon millions of people have been diagnosed with AIDS/HIV. About 3.4 million of those people are living in South Africa alone, which brought up the question of how patients were treated, the measures that were taken as far as prevention, and the ways that the public has been educated about the viruses throughout the past 30+ years. These questions then brought up curiosities of how the whole epidemic started and why it spread so rapidly throughout South Africa. Through literature review, document analysis, and viewing of documentaries, I hope to gain some insight on the topic. Unfortunately, I don’t particularly think that a lot of the information that I find will be positive, seeing as how the virus itself is upsetting, but also how even though South Africa is a developed country, they probably don’t have as many resources or funding to help combat the AIDS/HIV issue as many other countries. I hope that I will find the answer to my questions, and hopefully be proven wrong about my negative assumptions.
TRADITIONAL CULTURES
ZULU CULTURE: “INDLAMU” THE WAR DANCE , ONAJA WAKI
ABSTRACT My project will be based on one of the traditional Zulu war dance called Indlamu. This particular dance is a Zulu male warrior dance that portrays mock fighting as well as shows off the men’s strength. The Indlamu dance is most associated with Zulu culture because of its high regard to Zulu identity. This dance also remains untouched by Western influence. My object for this project is to explore authentic, and unaltered African dance, specifically traditional Zulu dance from the Southern region of Africa. I want to understand the Indlamu history and its meaning, and how it represents the warriors of the Zulu tribe, who fought against British imperial rule; European invasion in general. To explore this topic of dance I will use literature related to the topic, websites, videos to provide imagery, and hopefully be able to interview an African dance teacher, with experience in South Africa dance possibly from HSU’s dance department or a dance teacher I know from back home.What I hope to gain through my research is a greater outlook on exactly what Zulu culture is and looks like. I want to see traditional African (Zulu) movement, and the meaningfulness behind the dances. Overall I hope to gain and bigger perspective on African culture. A culture I identify with as well as an African American woman.
CULTURE STAYS, THE DANCE CHANGES , SINEVA HOSEA ABSTRACT The background of this research is the changes of the dances in the Zulu dance competition. This research explains the slight changes of how the dances incorporates contemporary dances. Competitions are full of excitement and are very competitive. Each year there are some changes. The performers change things up a bit to wow the judges and the audience. Throughout this process, I noticed that there is always a head leader of the dancers. He is what moves the crowd and what leads the dancers. Also in the competitions women and men perform together. In past history of zulu dancing they weren’t allowed to. Within the competitions, the costumes and their props are what counts too. They way they performed and the look of their performances. Their clothing for performances seem to all match. The men wear headbands, leggings, leg accessories, and are shirtless. As for the women the wear shirts, skirts, along with a headpiece. The men matches and the women all match in clothing. During the process of this research. I mostly worked and observed what I’ve seen over the internet. I observed many different videos of dances that were performed within the competitions. I paid closely attention of how each one differ. I even watch some dances of the zulu dances
in past history. Also researching the reviews of the competitions, seeing the winners of the competition being interviewed. The winners sometime state what they changed differently that time for the competition. All in which played a huge part in this research. Not only did I observed many dances, but I grew to learn a lot about the Zulu’s history and culture.
EDUCATION
BEAD MAKING IN SOUTH AFRICA , KIMBERLY FISHER ABSTRACT Bead working has long held important and diverse roles in South Africa. Some of these roles can be examined and more deeply understood by looking at the the earliest use of beadwork and it’s relationship to language, communication, trade and symbolism. Beadwork also contributes to the development of identities and meaning for modern day cultural groups such as the Xhosa and the Zulu. I will also touch on some of the diverse materials used and some of the new meanings and opportunities that beadwork is taking on now. Through this I hope to find something that demonstrates how resilient and adaptable the people of South Africa are. They keep traditions alive even after mass relocation and racism. They are able to speak volumes through their art and at the same time raise awareness and support the strengths of their communities.
LOBOLA: HERE TO STAY? , DAISY ALVAREZ ABSTRACT South African weddings have many traditions even before the actual wedding there is a ceremony that the father announces to the public that his daughter will soon wed. One of the most important parts of a South African wedding is when the grooms family meets the brides family to understand what the groom is planning for the bride, this is called Lobola. My main objective for this project is the tradition of Lobola favored by the South African people or is it something that they don't approve of? My methods for this project are finding literature review articles about the ceremony, what roles do family members, and what are the views of Lobola. I'm hoping to gain knowledge about what are some important traditions in South African and their views on Lobola through which gender and how what people over the years have thought about Lobola and if they are still wanting to continue the tradition. .
EDUCATION REFORM: PRODUCT OF APARTHEID , AYLA DILIBERTI ABSTRACT This presentation provides a historically accurate description of the Apartheid education reform and its past and present effects on the young and old people of South Africa. I would like to concentrate on the younger generations and the specific negative impacts it will have not only on the children in general, but south Africa’s country as a whole. By shedding light on Pre Apartheid, present Apartheid, and post Apartheid I will be able to provide concise analysis of how these educational restrictions have in the past and will in the future stump the counties growth. The children are the future, neglecting the children of color has voided their opportunities to have a prospering future, and the countries opportunity as a whole to be impacted by these potential scholars. The impact I hope to have is awareness, because this is still very much a prominent problem. I hope there can be proactive movement in the near future to provide the young generations of South African children the opportunities to thrive.
PROMINENT PEOPLE
uses a historical analysis, content analysis, and a literature review to explore the colonial exploitation and racism of Africans pre/post-apartheid and the cultural significance still held today through the exhibition of Sara Baartman. Additionally, this paper seeks to gain insight into how racism expanded and the methods used to justify it with the exposition of Sara Baartman during and after life.
PRIME EVIL:THE LEGACY OF APARTHED , BRYANNA VALENCIA ABSTRACT There are countless examples in human history were governments oppress people that become oppressors themselves. Eugene De Kock, also known as “Prime Evil” is a notorious South African Police, Colonel, Commander, torturer and assassin under the apartheid government. He has killed numerous anti apartheid activists in a secret counterinsurgency unit. In 1994, after the fall of the apartheid in South Africa he disclosed his crimes as a testimony to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. How can one who has committed atrocities repeatedly prevent evil from taking over their life? Through literature review and document analysis I will explore Eugene De Kock’s path as he comes to terms with his crimes during the apartheid era
MANDELA’S STORY: MAN OR MYTH , BRIANNA ADDINGTON ABSTRACT
SAARTJIE BAARTMAN: A FUNDAMENTAL ‘WONDER’ OF COLONIAL EXPLOITATION AND RACISM , DOMINIQUE CRAWFORD ABSTRACT Enslaved, sold, exhibited, dismembered, and displayed the life and death of Sara Baartman encapsulates colonial exploitation and the emergence racial science in the early 19th century. Baartman, a woman of Khoisan descent, was taken from her home and exhibited as a ‘freakshow’ curiosity throughout Europe under the name Hottentot Venus. This paper
Nelson Mandela is a name many have heard during their lives, yet many do not know of his accomplishments. His name is invoked when discussing matters of oppression in an almost mythical way. One would think, without any prior knowledge of apartheid, that Nelson Mandela was a movement unto himself. However, many still do no grasp his importance that he held for those in South Africa during apartheid. Apartheid is from the years 1948-1944, where racial segregation was sanctioned by the South African government. Mandela was an activist who fought against, and was imprisoned for his actions, the South African government. What was Nelson Mandela’s involvement in the anti-apartheid movement? What exactly was his contribution? Was he more than the myth that surrounds his name? This project will seek to solve these questions. Using
papers, books, articles, interviews based on this man’s life I hope to shed some light on who he was and what he did.
SPORTS
SURFING: THE SOUTH AFRICAN PASTIME’S HISTORY AND CULTURAL IMPACT , JACK HEEBINK ABSTRACT During the forties and the two immediate decades following the Second World War. Surfing began to become a part of popular culture in the United States, and through sporting exhibitions and popular culture such as the iconic band, the Beach Boys. Through this exposure, coastal cultures especially the Cape area and Durban area of South Africa began to take to the sport. The main objective of this paper is to show how surfing became a popular sport in South Africa, its effect on sporting and popular culture in South Africa, and will also be informative regarding the geographical locations and marine environments that South Africans use to participate in this oceanic pastime. Through an analysis of the history and present of surfing in South Africa, facets of race, gender, and identity, can be better understood from this study of wave riding in this nation rich with diversity.
ZULU STICKFIGHTING: AN ANALYSIS OF ZULU MASCULINITY , KEKOA BLASEDELL ABSTRACT The purpose is to first introduce Zulu stick fighting and the evolution of cultural significance. The purpose of the paper is also to explore the evolution of the techniques of the Zulu stick fighting method. The presumed originators of Zulu stick fighting trace back to Amalandela who in habited the Umhlatuze valley in about 1670. The dynamics of stick fighting are often used to build young Zulu fighters. Stick fighting evolved from traditional Zulu warfare in a way that helps to portray masculinity in the Zulu culture. Stick fighting is often playful unless it is used in selfdefense, faction fight, or when professional stick fighters compete. The plan of this paper is to use document analysis so that it would be possible to analyze different aspects of scholarly articles. I will also try to do literary review, which would help to get factual information. Hopefully by the end of this paper the major ideas would have been touched upon, and the cultural significance would be clear. In the end different cultures use different methods to show coming of age, the hope is to understand the evolution of stick fighting and how it integrated itself into important cultural ideals
SURFING SOUTH AFRICA , JOSHUA HAYES ABSTRACT South Africa picks up plenty of swell from Antarctic lows and is surrounded by the ocean on three sides (all but the north) which makes for huge surfing possibilities. It's 3 000 km coastline has a 270-degree exposure to the swells that may be on offer, so we are talking about lots and lots of waves. This coastline is swept by two major ocean currents, the warm southflowing Mozambique-Agulhas Current and the cold Benguela, and every coast is pounded by surf throughout the year. There are many world class surf spots. The surfing world got its first taste in the Endless Summer movie, now South African waves are feature on websites and surf magazines all over the world. Iconic surf spots like Jeffreys Bay and St Francis Bay are well know all of the world as great waves.To research and connect the world of surfing to
what we have learned about South Africa so far. How was surfing in South Africa been influenced by, and what direction is it heading now?Through articles and scholarly journals, I will gain information and knowledge of surfing past to determent its possible future in South Africa.
than isolated incident among nations.
MEDIA
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
LITERATURE REVIEW OF SOUTH AFRICAN MEDIA , ANGEL LOMELI
CONSPIRACY THEORY NO MORE: PROJECT COAST , BENJAMIN MACEDA ABSTRACT The Apartheid era wasn’t known for treating non-white masses well. One of the programs used was called Project Coast, headed by Wouter Basson and approved by P.W. Botha. Project Coast was a covert government biological and chemical weapons program. The program had a wide field of interest, from eugenics, to weaponized drugs, to intentionally infecting village water sources with cholera. There’s a lot of parallels to the American theories on the FBI introducing crack to American black communities. The purpose of this presentation is to examine and explain the practices and goals of Project Coast. There’s a lot of rumours circulating on the unethical projects of Project Coast, another goal of this presentation is to examine the ones that are concrete. To find out about Project Coast, there’s court transcripts, academic journals, and books on the subject. The other goal is to reveal how far the old government of South Africa was willing to go in order to maintain their power. The implications of a government’s callous disregard for its populace’s wellbeing points to this being a less
ABSTRACT Since the transition to a democratic government in South Africa post-apartheid, a noteworthy question has surfaced regarding the significance of media coverage and its possible effect on progression toward a fully stable democratic society. The purpose of this review is to determine whether the postapartheid South African media adequately encourages social transformation or contradicts the aspirations of a democratic and multicultural state. Peer reviewed articles were examined to establish the criteria for adequate coverage, and current media articles were inspected through the lens of this new criteria. Criteria included: containing representation of opposition party, lack of heavy government presence in report, and inclusion of perspectives from those affected by current event. Results indicate that current media is apt for sustaining an egalitarian role in postapartheid South Africa. Future research should investigate additional current events in South Africa with the same criteria. The continued social transformation of South Africa must challenge its history and commit to providing public forum for all South African perspectives.
THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF SOUTH AFRICAN FREE SPEECH BEFORE AND AFTER THE APARTHEID , CAMERON RODRIGUEZ
My project’s projected impact will create a better understanding of influences that lead to such harsh censorships as well as paint a picture of the inner workings of being able to be published through the Press Commission at the time of the Apartheid and possibilities and censorship now through the independent SABC.
ABSTRACT For my conference project, I will use information and testimonies from well-known South African literary figures such as: Nadine Gordimer, J.M. Coetzee, Phaswane Mpe, K. Sello Duiker, and Steve Biko; during and after the Apartheid era to compare and contrast the changes made with political censorship. From my research using scholarly articles, I have analyzed information about those that were censored for their attempts in the dismantling of the Apartheid, and those that are trying to change the new South Africa, which will be correlated to the apparent dichotomy of modern South Africa publications. I hope to teach those not aware; about the various ways that pertinent information was censored from the public due to government restrictions and how those ordinances still affect South Africa today. I will also briefly go over the changes in regimes of South Africa and how certain literary figures helped changed the political landscape.
SUPPRESSING A MILLION VOICES: CENSORSHIP AND RESISITANCE IN APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICA , NIKITA NUNNINK
THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF CENSORSHIP BOARDS DURING APARTHEID AND THEIR IMPACTS TODAY , JOANNE GALLAGHER ABSTRACT For my conference project I have chosen the topic of publications during the Apartheid. My area of focus shall be the institutionalization of the censorship boards. My research focuses on the creation of the Press Commission and the counter protest censorship through the use of alternative reading circuits developed during this oppressive time. I plan on introducing factors that lead to the Press Commission and how the Pre-Apartheid atmosphere led to the censorship of many different publications. After introducing these influences, I wish to extend that knowledge into controversies of censorship in South Africa today and introduce the SABC For this project I plan on using J-STOR and looking at documents published around and during the times of the Apartheid as well as later publications that dissect the institutional influences of the Press Commission.
ABSTRACT My research will be conducted through multiple channels to find the answer to the question, "How did South African media, such as movies, literature, poetry, and music create internal resistance to Apartheid?" I will attempt to illuminate the diverse cultural resistance to Apartheid and how black and white Africans used their natural artistic talents to tell their stories and spread the true magnitude Apartheid had on South Africa. I will do database research at the HSU library and the VVC library, as well as independent research online. I will find examples of Apartheid era writing and art that I can review and analyze. I also hope to contact authors and artists from South Africa and interview them to get their perspective on Apartheid, either through first-hand experience or stories from their family about how media helped solidify a resistance. I think that this research will give me and those who read it a glimpse into the undeniable power of stories and art, as well as how peoples have used it to not only create a voice, but broadcast it so that others felt empowered to resist
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
SANGOMAS: TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN POST-APARTHEID SOUTH AFRICA , CHRISTINA CHAPMAN ABSTRACT Traditional medicine has been practiced for centuries in South Africa and is known to be extremely sacred in many cultural groups throughout the country. Sangomas, the spiritual healers that guide in traditional medicine are the main symbol of this form of healing. Historically, European settlers in South Africa did not believe in or practice traditional rituals involving Sangomas to aid in sickness. In modern post-apartheid South Africa however, there has been a transition towards traditional practices across sociocultural boundaries. Today many South Africans of all ethnicitieshave either incorporated traditional techniques, or condone their usage. The main objective of this analysis is to connect the Sangomas and acceptance of traditional medicine to the overall meshing of sociocultural ideals in post-apartheid South Africa. And how these transitions are helping break down racial and social boundaries across the country. Literary review, document analysis and other sources will be used to conduct this research and legitimize main points.
SOCIAL MOVEMENTS
THE FREEDOM IN SOUTH AFRICA: ANALYSIS OF THE BLACK CONCSIOSNESS MOVEMENT IN LIBERATING THE MINDS OF BLACK SOUTH AFRICANS , JIBRIL BOB ABSTRACT My main objective is to show effects the Black Consciousness Movement had on Black people of South Africa. What can and will grow when Black men and women become conscious of their place in history. Also It’ll show the importance BCM made in the personal liberation of Black people minds, helping oppressed people achieve equality, in a land they once ruled. Focusing on Steve Biko, Nelson Mandela and The BCM will help show exactly how people were influenced by the BCM. Resistance to colonization was always present. The BCM formed from the jailing and banning of the African National Congress and The Sharpsville Massacre. The effects of the Rivonia Trial (Mandela, Mbeki) and the life and death of Steve Biko were happening during South Africa’s history. In 1977 all BCM organizations were banned, its leaders arrested, and their social programs dismantled under the newly implemented Internal Security Amendment Act. In September 1977 Steve Biko, was murdered while in the custody of the South African Police. The spark, led by Steve Biko changed black minds all over
S.A. I will research literature, analyze documents and provide case study showing the effects BCM had on people and politics in S.A. We will learn the BCM played a huge role in liberating the mind, body, and spirits of Black South Africans. Gained with this project will be a new awareness The BCM played in ushering people into a new way of thinking..
SECURITY
THE MANY ARMS OF THE LAW: THE RISE OF PRIVATE SECURITY IN SOUTH AFRICA , RONNIE ZARAGOSA ABSTRACT Although the dismantling of the apartheid was a major event in South African history, it was only the first step towards rebuilding the country. No political shift could make South Africans forget decades of civil turmoil or economic inequality. With crime outpacing an overextended police force, individuals had resorted to vigilante groups to maintain public safety. Soon, professional security companies arrived to answer the cries of wealthy South Africans. However, the level of safety had not improved for the less wealthy. Worse yet, private security companies had slowly introduced a series of societal issues within the country. This project will cover the growth of PSCs in South Africa and the socio-political effects from their presence. With this research, its hopeful that one can understand the current trajectory of South African law enforcement.
NECKLACING AS POPULAR JUSTICE IN THE ANTIAPARTHEID MOVEMENT , VALERIE TEPETLANCO ABSTRACT
Necklacing is the act of putting a tire over a victim, covering it with petrol and setting it on fire.It takes up to twenty minutes for the victims to die. The torture act is a summary execution, where there is no fair trial and is immediately killed. Necklacing first emerged in the 1980s when black individuals were protesting apartheid and taking matters into their own hands. The African National Congress encouraged its followers to set up a “people’s court” as a form of a justice system. However, many connect necklacing with “people’s court” but it is a summary trial by the people who felt an individual was against their movement or shared information with the police. The individual is not given an opportunity to be heard but rather the people decide his punishment for doing so. In anti-apartheid protests, necklacing became as a weapon of democracy. It was mainly used towards apartheid followers which includes policemen. This study covers necklacing in the apartheid era as a populist justice through the emergence of necklacing, the use of it through apartheid, and the how the ANC adopted this ritual which came to light in Truth Commission hearings in the mid 90s. A focus on the history of segregation of whites and blacks in South Africa, the double movement of apartheid, the start of the African National Congress and the testimonies from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission will bring an understanding on the act of necklacing. The scope of my research will hopefully find the motive of necklacing and what it means to the people, and how necklacing still holds as an act of justice in current South Africa.
PLACES
REMEMBERING DISTRICT SIX: FORCED REMOVALS, DEMOLITION, AND APARTHEID ACTIVISM , ZOE TINSETH
ABSTRACT District Six was a municipal district outside of Cape Town, South Africa that was founded in 1867. In the time before Apartheid Regime, District Six was a thriving district with a vibrant culture. In that time, the district had a diverse population with the community made up of freed slaves, merchants, immigrants, black South Africans, laborers, artisans, and many Malay people. On the 11th of February 1966 the government of South Africa under the Apartheid Regime listed District Six as a white-only district under the Group-Areas Act. This was followed by the removal of over 60,000 people from their homes, and later, the demolition of the once flourishing district. This presentation discusses the important history of District Six and the effect the demolition had on the community within the district as well as others oppressed by the Apartheid Regime. It also analyzes the connection District Six had to the Anti-Apartheid movement and the South Africans’ vision for the future, focusing specifically on protests, literary tactics, and the District Six Museum. The methods used to obtain this information are literature reviews and document analysis.
POPULAR CULTURE
SMARTEEZ: POWER IN FASHION , GRACE MCKENDRY
ABSTRACT The Smarteez are a group of young fashion designers, or participants of the fashion movement, located in the more urban areas of South Africa. This style of fashion is said to have originated from Soweto, one of the better known and most populated town stead in Johannesburg. This is a post-apartheid movement, and as a result of this most of its members either grew up during the end of, or shortly after apartheid. Members of this community are also a part of the growing black middle class. The colors of Smarteez style clothing seems to be one of the most important aspects – they are mostly pastel, bright and flashy. How does bright clothes and great fashion sense help bring self-esteem back to marginalized people? This study will mainly use document analysis in order to reveal how this community presents itself as a black power movement. The general idea of this project is to educate readers about youth movements in popular media, and show people why movements like these are important
THE TIKOLOSHE AND ITS INLUENCE ON POPULAR CULTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA , WILSON HARTSOCK ABSTRACT The Tikoloshe is a mythological creature in zulu culture that is notorious for being mischievous. Often, they are summoned by the ill-intentioned and disrupt the daily lives of its victims. The Tikoloshe is said to have many different forms, and can only be dispelled by a N'anga, or witch doctor.The objective of this project is to explore the many incantations of the Tikoloshe within popular culture and see if popular culture is perpetrating or changing the traditional Tikoloshe. The popular media I will gather will be from the previous 20 years that involves the spirit, zulu or otherwise. This will mostly include videos, literary analysis, music, and television. With this project, I hope to understand how exactly the superstitious or supernatural play an important role in preserving or perhaps shifting south african culture. I hope to understand whether pop culture distorts the traits of the traditional spirit, or preserves it.
Thank you for your participation in this conference