Decolonization of the mind

Tumelo Mashiloane

by Tumelo Mashiloane

I first saw unfair treatment and injustices by studying my African history. That’s where I came to realize that my people were being treated unfairly under the colonialism and apartheid regimes in schools, workplaces, and communities. Today, we can reflect on these unfair treatments and injustices, because apartheid gained another term called democracy, where the systemic injustices are still the same and in place. Black people are still being treated
unfairly, and the injustices are continuing under the so-called democracy. Black workers are still earning low salaries, black children from school and higher education institutions are still being treated unfairly and indoctrinated by European education. There’s no justice until we completely eradicate these systemic injustices of our oppressors.

My envisioned change is to see a future that is aligned with my goals, values, and aspirations, where everyone is going to be treated fairly, irrespective of race. My envisioned change is to break the so-called white supremacy. This notion was instilled in every black child’s mind that white people are superior and they are inferior. For example, every black man and woman, when they come across white people, their behaviour changes and their tone, which is a sign of a mentally defeated person. I envisioned changing black Minds,  want a society where black people will also thrive, financially, spiritually, emotionally, psychologically, and physically.

I took some actions to bring about change by joining movements that are so enthusiastic for change. I started programs that will bring change in my community and in Africa at large. Everywhere I go, I teach change because this world needs people who are going to build bridges between souls and heal the world. I draw strength from my activism by mobilizing and challenging those in power. To bring about transformation, I draw strength from my activism to fight corruption and crime. These are challenging matters delaying our society from thriving. My activism is not about touring, but it’s all about touring for change.