A new exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of the Anti-Apartheid Movement has opened at the Museum of London.
Forward to Freedom examines key events in the campaign against apartheid including the consumer boycott of South African produce, demonstrations against touring sports teams and the campaigns in support of political prisoners.
Also highlighted is London’s role in the struggle for a free South Africa, both as the birthplace of the , both as the Anti-Apartheid Movement was founded and where many of its campaigns were based, and the capital of a country which was inextricably linked with apartheid South Africa.
Lord Hughes of Woodside, Labour MP and previous Chair of the Anti-Apartheid Movement comments, “This display and partnership with Museum of London and the Bodleian Library reflects the ethos of collaboration demonstrated by the Anti-Apartheid Movement throughout its history.”
“Forward to Freedom is an expressive and thoughtful beginning to its 50th anniversary celebrations and a testament to its work and the passion and immense perseverance of its supporters in campaigning for equality in southern Africa. Today, its work is being carried on by its successor organisation, Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA).”
Annette Day, Senior Curator at Museum of London, comments, “London has a long history as a centre and a national and international stage for protest. The Anti-Apartheid Movement and all those who supported its work and attended its demonstrations occupy an important and vivid chapter in that history”.
Forward to Freedom opens on June 12th and runs until September 6th and it is free for all.
