Johannesburg – The SA Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) called on South Africans to understand building a new society was “still a work in progress”.
In a statement on Tuesday, the union said Freedom Day, celebrated on April 27, marked the beginning of transformation for South Africa.
“As we reflect on the 22 years of democracy, we realise that building a new society is still a work in progress. This year’s celebration comes at a time when the country is preparing for another milestone in our history – the local government elections that are due to take place in August.”
The union called on local government to work with communities to find sustainable ways to meet “social, economic and material needs and improve their lives”.
“Even though non-racial municipalities have been established, the divisions of the past are still prevalent as we see imbalances in terms of physical infrastructure and in provision of services. Let this day give us another opportunity to strengthen solidarity, tolerance, national identity and social cohesion.”
Freedom Day will be celebrated on Wednesday.