The Rainbow Nation: exploring the loss of indigenous languages among the "Born free" in the new South Africa: reflections of Gen X

Abstract

The 1990s brought forth a series of remarkable and expansive transformations in South Africa. Among the most notable were the successful negotiations between once-opposing social and political ideologies. The result of these negotiations was the legislative deconstruction of apartheid (racial segregation), the establishment of a democratic system, the introduction of a globally recognised progressive constitution, and the birth of a Black middle class. The less tangible changes involved efforts aimed at realising the values enshrined in the new Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. They include values such as "human dignity, the achievement of equality and advancement of human rights and freedoms; non-racialism and non-sexism; and supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law", and its ensuing policies. Nonetheless, it has been argued that achievements thus far seem to have realised a more symbolic significance than a substantive impact. A number of scholars have written about the persistent challenges in uplifting the previously marginalised, the undereducated, eradicating poverty, enhancing healthcare, safeguarding the rights of children and women, and reforming the education system. The education system, in particular, continues to grapple with the lasting effects of past segregation and inequalities.