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IT must have been one of those odd days where I have spent the June 16 commemoration in a non-political activity. It was once more fulfilling to see sporting fans united on behalf of the South Africa we all belong to and not divided by race, class or inheritance.

In the past five years I have observed much reluctance from the youth in particular, increasingly failing to associate with the June 16 commemorations.

The Southern Kings versus the Lions match in Nelson Mandela Bay was the highlight of this year‘s commemoration. Apart from the game itself, the observation of the moment of silence almost brought tears to my eyes.

Whilst lives were lost on behalf of a better education system, other platforms which enabled equality of all South Africans opened the same prospects. If it weren‘t for the much desired unity in sport, the likes of Solly Tyibilika and Mzwandile Stick would not have made national colours and played against the British Lions on June 16.

As a young black woman in South Africa I still cherish the day and hope that others understand the plight of the youth of 1976. – Palesa Kadi, East London