Tut 1
Identify any (but not the Shembe Church) African Traditional Religious group in the African continent or the Caribbean Islands/ South American where Afro cultural religion might exist. Provide a brief overview of this ATR group. Provide a brief history of the group and important cultural ideas and practices. Would you define this group as a social movement? Motivate your answer. In your tut, discuss your findings.
Tut length: 1 or 2 pages
References: Minimum 2 sources (no websites/ internet sources. Books and journal articles only)
Individual assessments
***10 marks***
Tut 2
Tut 2. Identify a social movement member or leader you are interested in. Write a brief background on the social movement and the person you have picked. What is their role in the movement? Why did they join? How long have they been part of the movement etc? Draft a few key questions (between 5 and 10) you would ask this social movements participant. In your tut, discuss your chosen social movement.
Assignment length: 1 page
References: Minimum 2 sources (1 legit internet source permitted, see referencing guide).
Individual assessments
***10 marks***
Tut 3
Discussion on decolonisation. Is South Africa truly decolonised?
Use theme 3’s readings and lectures to debate and discuss the question.
Also use this tut as an opportunity to start getting into groups
Write a reflection from the above information.
Tut 1:
One of the African Traditional Religious groups that exist in the African continent is the Yoruba religion which is practiced in Nigeria, Benin, and Togo. The Yoruba religion has a rich history and is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. It has survived for centuries despite the influence of Islam and Christianity in the region.
The Yoruba religion is based on the belief in a supreme god, Olodumare, and a pantheon of Orishas who are the intermediaries between humans and the divine. These Orishas represent different aspects of nature and have specific roles and powers. The religion also places a strong emphasis on ancestor veneration and the importance of maintaining a connection with the spirits of the deceased.
The Yoruba religion is not just a belief system, but also a way of life for the Yoruba people. It influences their art, music, dance, and social practices. Rituals and ceremonies are an important part of the religion, with festivals and sacrifices being held to honor the Orishas and ancestors.
The Yoruba religion can be considered a social movement in the sense that it has helped the Yoruba people to preserve their cultural identity and resist external influences. It has played a role in fostering a sense of community and solidarity among the Yoruba people, especially during times of oppression and colonization. The religion has also provided a framework for social organization and governance within Yoruba societies.
References:
- Olupona, J. K. (1991). Yoruba religious culture: A worldview. African Studies Review, 34(1), 1-4.
- Idowu, E. B. (1962). Olodumare: God in Yoruba belief.
Tut 2:
One social movement leader that I am interested in is Nelson Mandela, who played a crucial role in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Mandela was a key figure in the struggle against apartheid and fought for the rights and dignity of black South Africans. He was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and later became the president of South Africa.
Mandela's role in the anti-apartheid movement was that of a leader and a symbol of hope and resilience for his people. He joined the movement because he believed in the fight for justice and equality, and he was willing to sacrifice his own freedom for the cause. Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his activism before eventually being released and becoming the first black president of South Africa in 1994.
Some key questions I would ask Nelson Mandela include:
- What inspired you to join the anti-apartheid movement?
- How did you manage to maintain hope and resilience during your time in prison?
- What do you see as the biggest challenges facing South Africa in terms of social justice and equality today?
References:
- Mandela, N. (1994). Long walk to freedom: The autobiography of Nelson Mandela. Little, Brown.
- Callinicos, L. (2004). How did the movement against apartheid play a substantial role in bringing about change in South Africa? Journal of Southern African Studies, 30(3), 639-656.
Tut 3:
In discussing decolonisation in South Africa, it is important to consider whether the country is truly decolonized. While South Africa officially gained independence from colonial rule in 1961, the legacy of apartheid and the continued inequalities between different racial groups suggest that decolonisation is an ongoing process.
The theme 3 readings and lectures have highlighted the various ways in which the effects of colonialism continue to shape South African society, particularly in terms of land ownership, economic disparities, and social divisions. Decolonisation not only involves gaining political independence but also addressing the underlying power structures and inequalities that were imposed by colonialism.
Reflection: The discussion on decolonisation in South Africa has made me realize the complexity of the process and the need for a holistic approach that addresses both the historical injustices and the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities. It has also highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue and activism in order to achieve true decolonisation and social justice in the country.