By Angie Hartwig
PERTH — An ANC Victory Party is being organised here on May 21, after the inauguration of President Nelson Mandela on May 11. The celebration is being organised by WA Campaign Against Racial Exploitation and Western Australian-South African Solidarity (WASAS).
WASAS was established on October 31 to build, channel and coordinate grassroots, community level links and support for the people of South Africa.
WASAS is committed to community empowerment and seeking solutions to the country's problems from the people of South Africa. The emphasis is on forging people-to-people solidarity through programs such as twinning projects, information exchanges and work and study brigades.
On November 30, a delegation went to South Africa to work with community organisations. The delegation was overwhelmed by requests from community organisations to exchange experience, knowledge and skills.
Since the return of two solidarity workers in mid-February, Angie Hartwig and Marc Newhouse have addressed the TLC Women's Committee, International Women's Day, TLC Council and the May Day Dinner to gain support and spread the message from the South African people that international solidarity in the South African reconstruction and development process is urgent.
Wherever the delegation went, people spoke of their proud relationship with the international anti-apartheid movement. People said the struggle was just beginning — against poverty, illiteracy, gender oppression and political violence. The message from the people is clear: maintain, intensify and direct solidarity towards the reconstruction and development program.
WASAS held an initial fundraising event in Fremantle with the screening of a newly produced series of videos, Ulibambe Lingashoni (Hold Up The Sun), which looked at the history of the African National Congress. The de Klerk government stopped the screening in South Africa prior to the elections, saying that it would give the ANC an unfair advantage in the elections.
The evening was a success. Senator Christabel Chamarette (WA Greens) sponsored the evening and gave an inspiring message of solidarity to the South African people and for the work of WASAS.
A delegation report has been prepared for presentation to a broad range of Western Australian organisations and a public meeting to be organised by WASAS after the elections. Any interested persons or organisations wishing to purchase a copy of this 16-page report should contact WASAS at 44 Denis Street, Subiaco WA 6008, or phone 381 2474/390 5372 a.h. Copies are available for $5 plus postage.