HERITAGE MONTH

11 September 2002

The Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, National Orders, including the National Assembly, Presidency and Constitutional Court are a cornerstone of this year's Heritage Month of September 2002.

The theme for this year's activities is ' Celebrating our National Symbols and Institutions.' The theme has been chosen to popularise South African national symbols and to foster understanding of the significance of these symbols. This theme was announced after a decision was taken in a meeting with provincial ministers of arts and culture (MINMEC).

National symbols are defined in terms of the Constitution and are meant to promote reconciliation and nation building. In the founding provisions of the constitution it is stated that the Republic of South Africa is a sovereign democratic state founded on the following values:

• Human dignity, the achievement of equality and advancement of human rights and freedoms
• Non-racialism and non-sexism
• The supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law
• Universal adult suffrage, national common voters roll, regular election and the multiplicity system of democratic government to endure accountability, responsiveness and openness.

The purpose of declaring September as Heritage Month is to create a platform that provides and gives tangible expression and symbolism to the adopted theme.

The month will be characterised by Imbizio style activities with members of communities to educate and engage the South African public to recognise and be aware of the proper use of our National Symbols.

The Heritage Day celebration will take place on 24 September 2002 at Marry Fitzgerald Square in the Newtown Precinct, Johannesburg.

For further information please contact Mr M Lewele at 082 450 5076, Lolo Maphophe at 082 6004644

Issued by Department of Arts and Culture