Sydney couldn't have asked for a better "spring" break

Human Rights Day takes place on March 21^st in South Africa in remembrance of the Sharpeville massacre which took place March 21, 1960. This massacre occurred because of protests against the Apartheid government. This past week on March 21^st we visited the site of the Sharpeville massacre and heard what happened that day along with some history on the struggle for freedom. Seeing all of the different political parties chant and march on this day was amazing. For the fact that for this one day they all came together to remember the tragedy and were able to demonstrate in their own ways. However seeing the spot where 69 people were killed and then visiting their finally resting place was hard. Seeing 69 graves in a row puts into perspective how violent and deadly the protests ended. Hearing that a lot of the people that were killed during these protests had their bodies taken away and are still not found is very disturbing. Not knowing where the body of a loved one is and not being able to properly put them to rest is the most heartbreaking thing to think about. I remember a conversation with a peer who thought how brave they were for fighting back and risking their lives, but after visiting the Apartheid Museum that week I realized that it wasn’t bravery at all. In a statement a youth said he didn’t care if he died or not a one point after seeing so many of his friends and family die. I think after a point most people might get to that point of thinking of death as an inevitability and deciding that going out fighting is better.

After visiting these sites and different museums that talked about apartheid it was refreshing to spend the day at the Boys and Girls Club. This was one of the best days because we were able to spend the whole day helping organize some books before the youth came in and then getting the opportunity to hang out with them. That day we spilt into different teams and had different relay races and activities that made the day pass by so fast. Getting to know the youth and encouraging others to come out of their shells was awesome. Leaving that day was so hard because I was able to build friendships with a lot of the youth so fast and they all asked me if I would be back. It was a sad moment leaving but after learning about the past and current struggles it was also a happy moment, because these youth had so much light and love within them. Whatever struggle they might have faced or are currently facing them, they welcomed us with open arms and we all had a blast. Also the staff were awesome in making me feel welcome and like we were long last friends.

To end this week long trip in Johannesburg we visited Kruger National Park. This was awesome because I love animals and going on game drives were amazing. We were able to see Lions, Elephants, Kudus, Giraffes, Water Buffalo, and more. Looking out at the scenery and animals going about their every-day lives made me wonder what the world was like before we took over and all the beautiful animals we have lost. It is sad to think that the world is slowly dying and we are constantly losing species of animals due to pollution, over-hunting and other human interferences. Going to national parks and protected land like this makes me think things can be turned around and hope that we will get back into harmony with nature. Also during this trip I was able to connect with some peers that I have not had as much time with in the past weeks. Overall I couldn’t have asked for a better spring break. I learned a lot about the country I am staying in and realized how much I have become attached to Cape Town, feeling relief when we finally touched down and returned home.