AfriPOP! takes a moment to commemorate June 16th, 1976 (Soweto Uprising), the day students in Soweto took a stand against systematic oppression and protested being taught in Afrikaans, among many other grievances.

We honor those who had enough courage to risk their lives on that say, despite the teargas and bullets; despite the calls from their mother’s to “come home!” If faced with the same issues today, would we follow in their footsteps? Would we throw stones against bullets?

Above is the iconic photo of Hector Pieterson, then 12, who was shot and killed by police in the Soweto uprising on June 16, 1976. It was taken by legendary photographer, Sam Nzima.

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