An estimated 4000 locals braved cold and constant drizzle to form Grahamstown's first-ever Human Chain on Friday 21 February to reflect on the legacy of late former statesman Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela.
An estimated 4000 locals braved cold and constant drizzle to form Grahamstown's first-ever Human Chain on Friday 21 February to reflect on the legacy of late former statesman Nelson Rholihlahla Mandela.
Vuyani Zondani, Rhodes Community Engagement co-ordinator and member of the chain's organising committee said, "I was really impressed because the weather was not great."
"The rain came down hard, in particular at 1pm when the people were supposed to line the streets. But it shows the courage of the people who were committed to celebrating the legacy of our former president."
"I was also impressed by the turnout from different schools around Grahamstown," Zondani said.
Di Hornby, chain co-organiser and Rhodes Community Engagement director, said participants had covered most of the route, with "some gaps in the Albany Road and M Street area."
The experience of the individual 'links' in the chain varied. Some soaked school children grumbled and dispersed instantly when permitted to do so.
"We're here because we have to be," was how one pupil described it.
Towards the centre of town, however, the rain failed to dampen the high spirits of participants from Rhodes, including staff and students, and children from the various schools.
The excitement was tangible, as was the sense of community and togetherness, and one group of students sang and danced all the way to Church Square without breaking hands or rhythm.
"It was wonderful!" commented Rhodes second year student, Katherine Barnard.
"Despite the rain, I held hands with strangers, got to hear snippets of their stories, felt the warmth of humanity spread between people.
And this is what I think is the most beautiful thing: a collective love for South Africa which, while acknowledging that some things may be wrong, also celebrates that some things are right, too," she said.
Photos by Rhodes Photojournalism 4: Michelle Cunliffe, Gabriella Fregona, Alexandra Sedgwick, Ashlee Wilson, Joshua Oates, Louisa Feiter, Kendal Quicke, Niamh Walsh-Vorster, Kate Janse van Rensburg, Stephanie Papini, and Mia van der Merwe
