Identity in a South African Perspective

      Stereotypically, Africa is thought to be a continent comprised of a population who are vastly behind modern society. Instead of embracing and studying Africa’s culture, those of us in 1st world countries let our prejudices become our reality. While there were many subtle biases and preconceived notions I had coming into the trip, the one that was the most profusely shattered was how one dimensional I believed South African language was. Upon first reading Nevile Alexander’s article,“Language Politics in South Africa”, I began to realize the complexity of South Africa’s languages. Never before had I realized that language not only is a tool for communication, but is also one of the strongest forms of identity. During my time in South Africa, a fellow student named Edward made the complexity of South African language clear to me while telling me about his childhood. 

      What first struck me while talking with Edward was how reserved he was describing the different language groups. When I first asked him how difficult it was for the different languages to interact with each other, I expected a simple answer. Instead, I got incredible insight into the culture and identity of the South African people. Unlike almost everywhere else where mainly race, religion, or class identifies its people, language is the largest identifier for South African people. Edward recollected that while growing up, he was bombarded with Zulu language, traditions and customs because of his family identification. Instead of just being a black or white issue, identity in the South African context is based on one’s heritage and language. For example, when introducing himself to others, Edward said, "Hello my name is Edward and I’m Zulu”. Right from this first encounter it is plain to see how greatly language is rooted within the South African people. Edward showed me that while the country is trying to build itself into a Rainbow Nation, its people are clinging tightly to their historical roots. They take so much pride in what language group they come from, that they center their entire lives on this single aspect of themselves. Identity is a highly complex concept that takes on many forms depending on the individual situation. While it can’t be said that a South African’s sole identification is their language, Edward’s stories helped me realize it is the most profound.

~Maleah