This year’s national Freedom Month celebration marks 25 years of Freedom and Democracy and comes shortly before the upcoming national and provincial elections on 08 May, in which all South Africans will be exercising their democratic right to vote. The month will be observed under the theme, “Celebrating 25 Years of Democracy”.

Government calls on all South Africans to join in celebrating this milestone on our journey to democracy and freedom. Freedom Month affords South Africans the opportunity to make a pledge towards fighting the legacy of racism and economic inequality as well as renewing loyalty to the country and commitment to its future.

“During this Freedom Month we celebrate our achievements and reflect on our successes during the 25 years of Freedom and Democracy. Our vibrant democracy is anchored on the Constitution which guarantees equal rights for all. Since the dawn of democracy, government has consistently worked on improving the lives of all South Africans”, said GCIS Acting Director-General Phumla Williams.

Government encourages South Africans to work together to encourage a socially integrated and inclusive South Africa. All sectors of society must play their part in building an inclusive economy and work together to remove all obstacles which still divide society and strive to build on the many ties that bind it together.

Nation building is a process that should be nurtured and defended and South Africans should continue forging a national identity which binds us together around the values including mutual respect, tolerance and acceptance.

Members of the public are urged to join the conversation on social media and share their messages, memories or reflections of these 25 Years of Freedom and Democracy using the hashtags #FreedomMonth and the #MyFreedomSA Facebook profile picture frame found on this link: http://www.facebook.com/profilepicframes/?selected_overlay_id=2379355118744298. Follow us on social media at @GovernmentZA @SAGovNews @GCISMedia for updates on Freedom Month activities.

Issued by Government Communication and Information System