Roots to Fruits Conference to be held at the Fred Crooke’s Sports Centre, Durban University of Technology from 31 July to 2 August 2011
In 1994 the South African regime transformed from a racially based oppressive regime to a democratically elected inclusive government. This has been described as a miracle; it was built on challenging negotiations between the various interest groups. It was proclaimed to be a miracle. It was nonviolence in action largely driven by the African National Congress and its formidable leadership, led by Nelson Mandela.
In 1912 the African National Congress was established by leaders such as Dr John Dube and others, advocating nonviolence as the dominant strategy to bring about change in the country of their birth. The ANC followed this path through its nonviolent mass action in the country and through the anti-apartheid movement set up internationally
Civil society in many countries of the world has begun to organise for effective change through nonviolent action. Many who resorted to violent actions have laid down their weapons and are opting for nonviolence. Religious communities have reiterated the message of their scriptures of compassion, peace, equity, respect and love. As the miseries caused by environmental problems begin to dominate the lives of people throughout the world, hope is now built on the philosophy and action based on nonviolence. The legacy of nonviolence established by Gandhi, King, and Luthuli is more relevant than ever.
This conference aims to address these issues by building on that legacy internationally.
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