The Impact and Influence of Steve Biko on Creative Arts, Critical Dialogue
Venue: The Black Power Station
By Kungawo Ralo
The session was an engaging and thought-provoking one which encouraged many insightful conversations. Hosted by activist and UCT lecturer Sanele Ntshingana, it was more than just a gathering. It was representative of a living and growing culture. It was also in honour of the late activist Thandazile Madinga. As indicated in its title, this dialogue explored how Steve Biko’s legacy continues to live on by fuelling and shaping the creative arts in modern-day South Africa.
Focusing on Makhanda in particular, and with reference to the statues in the centre of town that reflect a legacy of struggle, Ntshingana explored the influence of a deep history of intellectualism, resistance and war. Makhanda served as an important town for reflecting on the the connection between the Black Consciousness movement and creative activism.
Emphasis was put on Biko’s philosophy throughout the talk. “In a time where black people where taught that they were inferior, Biko’s philosophy breathed life into those who had been told that anything intellectual, beautiful and nice was associated with whiteness,” Ntshingana said. The Black Conciousness movement completely flipped the script and encouraged black people to stop seeking white validation and to start claiming their blackness unapologetically, which is encouraged to this day.
Inspired by Biko’s philosophy and the isiXhosa phrase “Sowthatha apho bayeke khona,” meaning we will pick up where they left off, Ntshingana and his associates decided to do something for the community. They implemented a programme in which they get book donations from people to educate children in township schools. With every book donated, a child is educated, enforcing Biko’s beliefs of educating young black minds.
The session ended with a quick question and answer exchange between Ntshingana and audience members. Those who attended walked away with a sense of understanding of Biko’s legacy, echoed in the activism of past generations and thriving in today’s creative youth.
