Black consciousness in South Africa

Abstract

South African concept. Black consciousness is vaguely defined and contradictions exist in respect of its philosophical bases and objectives. The relative contributions of the cultures of Indians and Coloureds appear to be slight and African culture dominates. There is no doubt about the existential nature and political objectives of the movement

Black consciousness and human relations. In spite of denials by leading exponents, racism underlies much of Black consciousness thought, and there is complete withdrawal from Whites and White institutions. The South African Students’ Organisation and the Black Peoples Convention – both organisations adhering to the ideals of Black consciousness – discourage their members from participating in South African government created institutions.

Religious involvement. The viewpoint that theology is concerned with existential problems led to its political involvement and the belief that religious fulfilment can only be achieved together with or after fulfilment in other spheres of life. The more than 3 000 independent African churches offer excellent scope for recruiting support for a Black theology movement.

Some roots of the movement in South Africa. Although observed for the first time in 1970 in South Africa, Black consciousness can be traced to the All‐Africa Convention of 1935 and subsequent African opposition. It is related to the pan‐African and American Black consciousness movements.

Manifestations of Black solidarity. In various walks of life awareness of a Black pride and consciousness is manifested: The use of African names, and the term “Black” in the place of “African”, “Nonwhite”, etc.; community development projects to promote self‐realisation; the establishment of educational, religious, youth, sports, art, and drama societies; attempts at establishing a Black press; and establishing a political organisation — the BPC. Society is approached with a view to its penetration with Black consciousness ideals.

Marginal support. A wide gap separates homeland‐based African leaders and Black consciousness leaders, but there is a measure of unanimity among them on African dignity, political rights, job reservation, pass laws, and education.

Black consciousness is a potent force in South African politics, but hitherto its resources remained largely untapped.