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Midway through our second decade of democracy, South Africa has made great progress in overcoming the divisions of our past. Tomorrow, on Reconciliation Day, we celebrate these efforts, and renew our commitments to achieving a united, safe, prosperous and free society, in which all South Africans have the opportunity to achieve their dreams.

Our Day of Reconciliation reminds us how far we have come as a nation. It symbolises the advances we have made towards ending discrimination and it offers us an opportunity to reflect upon, and celebrate, the remarkable work of many South Africans in building a united society for all. It is a time to pause and reflect on the new threats to our future as a democratic nation, and heed the call to defend our Constitution.

At the beginning of this year, Helen Suzman's passing reminded us of the responsibilities vested in all of us to help to continue to build a society free from all forms of discrimination and power abuse.

In spite of the many challenges we face, every South African should be proud of the progress we have made in overcoming the legacy of the past. We must continue to foster tolerance and compassion.