As an admitted history nerd I really wanted to visit Robben Island before we left Cape Town. I studied race relations in college and remember reading a lot about South Africa. As we saw everywhere there are many reminders of the inequality and scars that apartheid has left on this beautiful but troubled nation. Jason and I visited this place that Nelson Mandela and many others spent year imprisoned because of their beliefs and actions against the government.
It was time well spent in learning and in remembrance.
our tour guide was imprisoned here for 7 years because he was accused of terrorism against the apartheid government.
room that once held up to 60 men
18 of his 27 years in prison in this room. Tragic and amazing that a human spirit can survive and even live to thrive and lead after such challenges.
We were the last tour of the day and as we walked back to the ferry a man was lowering the flag. That felt like the perfect ending to our time in South Africa.
I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I therefore place the remaining years of my life in your hands.
~ Nelson Mandela. Speech on the day of his release, Cape Town (11 February 1990)