Heritage Day

Heritage Day is celebrated throughout South Africa on September 24th. It’s a time to gather, enjoy traditional food, sing songs, and dance; all while wearing traditional clothing. My school celebrated Heritage Day in grand style. All of the learners performed a song and dance by grade. As a special treat, some of the teachers performed a song as well. I noticed none of the male teachers got involved in the performance, so I asked them if we could in the future. They smiled nervously but agreed. After the performances, we ate a traditional meal. I brought chocolate chip cookies to share. The teachers were surprised to find out that I can bake. (In Zulu culture, men don’t normally cook).

Grade 7 Learners Performing a Song and Dance

Sitting back and observing this holiday in action was breathtaking. My school has at least a few learners from other areas of the country as well as from other countries, as I learned from talking with my colleagues and from seeing the clothing they wore for the celebration. I learned even some of the teachers come from other parts of the country. In addition to traditional Zulu attire, some people wore traditional Xhosa clothing.

A Teacher Wearing Traditional Xhosa Attire & Joe Wearing Traditional Zulu Attire

Michelle’s school also celebrated Heritage Day. Although she doesn’t have as many photos, she does have a poem to share. Her contribution to the celebration was to write a poem in English for a learner to recite.

Michelle's Poem

Experiencing Heritage Day reminded me about the International Festival that takes place in my hometown, Lorain, OH. Lorain has a diverse population, with people being able to trace their roots back to many countries. As families immigrated into the U.S., they settled in Lorain because there were several, large employers (e.g. steel mill, ship yards, car factory). As a way of celebrating the rich diversity, Lorain holds a festival where people can come together to share their heritage in fellowship. At the festival, one can eat food from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America while enjoying traditional songs and dances. If you ever have a chance to visit Lorain, I would recommend going during the festival. It takes place during the last weekend of June. You’re sure to have a good time.

Here’s a link the International Festival website if you’d like to read more about it: http://www.loraininternational.com/.