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The recent upsurge of racist acts by some in our society calls on all South Africans to act in a manner that is consistent with the objectives of our society, to build a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous society.

This song is just one aspect of the war against racism, as history has told us before, arts and culture have a critical role to play in the fight against racism.

Miriam Makeba in her seminal piece titled “African Sunset” demonstrated this, Hugh Masekela with his powerful song, “Stimela” once again demonstrated the power of arts in mobilising and conscientising society about the ills that confront society. Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya demonstrated the role that this craft can play. Arthur Mafokate’s song “Don’t call me Kaffir” took the fight against racism to newer generations.

This is a call to every sector of society to play its part in the war against racism.

We acknowledge that this is not a cure but a catalyst towards ending racism and nurturing nation building and social cohesion.

As we intensified our campaign against racism, in every public engagement I called upon artists to come up with proposals on how they can make a contribution in this national effort to combat racism. All art forms can contribute to this national effort. This is one of many songs on this CD compilation that consists of 8 tracks.

This CD compilation is one of many more musical performances and products that we as the Department of Arts and Culture are championing as part of the struggle against racism.

In fact, the role of the arts and artists is not confined to music or musicians alone, but will include a poetry anthology against racism and a visual arts poster exhibition against the scourge of racism.

We will not rest until all the billboards of this country carry the message across, because racism does not only exist or persist because of colonialism, segregation and apartheid but it also resides in the minds and psyche of people who have grown accustomed to their sense of superiority and privilege. We want our people to know that racism stops with me.

The arts is the most powerful tool that can be harnessed to take levels of thinking to a higher consciousness.

Government’s strategy is not confined to the arts alone but Cabinet has approved a national action plan against racism for discussion. There is legislation on the cards against racism. Ours is a multi-pronged strategy, which includes sectoral summits and the drafting of a national compact against racism.

Issued by Department of Arts and Culture