UPDATE: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has just honored three iconic Australians for their vital roles in the anti-apartheid movement during a ceremony at the Freedom Park Heritage Site in Pretoria, South Africa. The tribute comes as part of his attendance at the 2023 G20 Leaders’ Summit, where global leaders gather under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.”
The newly added names to the Wall of Names include former Prime Ministers Malcolm Fraser and Bob Hawke, as well as former diplomat Bruce Haigh. This recognition elevates their contributions alongside two other Australians already honored for championing racial equality in South Africa.
“It is a great honor to see the names of these great Australians on the Wall of Names at Freedom Park, alongside others who fought for freedom and democracy in South Africa,” stated Mr. Albanese. “Fraser, Hawke, and Haigh displayed the best of who we are as Australians. They stood up for what was right and fought for equality and dignity.”
Mr. Fraser took significant steps during his leadership, working with the United Nations and the Commonwealth of Nations to address apartheid. He was notably one of the first world leaders to visit Nelson Mandela in prison. Meanwhile, Mr. Hawke pushed for sanctions against the apartheid regime through the Commonwealth and the Australian Council of Trade Unions, advocating for sporting boycotts to pressure the government. Mr. Haigh, who served in South Africa between 1976 and 1979, established crucial contacts with anti-apartheid activists and brought injustices to light, a legacy showcased in the 1987 film Cry Freedom.
This tribute arrives amid heightened security in Johannesburg, where the South African government has deployed 3,500 police officers to manage anticipated protests during the summit, with the army on standby. The summit is expected to focus on advancing inclusive and sustainable growth, providing Mr. Albanese with opportunities for bilateral meetings with other world leaders.
As the world watches, the actions and legacies of these Australians serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of standing against oppression. Mr. Albanese emphasized, “Their belief that racial discrimination has no place in society and courage to speak out on the world stage helped contribute to the end of apartheid in South Africa. The legacy of these great Australians is a powerful reminder that standing up for what is right is what matters most.”
Stay tuned for further updates as the G20 Leaders’ Summit progresses and developments unfold.
