The Day Gogo Went to Vote: South Africa, 1994
Written by Elinor Batezat Sisulu & Illustrated by Sharon Wilson
The setting: South Africa in 1994 in the Township of Soweto.
The situation: Finally, the black people of South Africa could vote, for the first time, for their own leaders.
The story: Written from the perspective of a young child, this is a story of the importance of a most historic milestone in the lives of South Africans.
Although Gogo, the name for grandmothers in Xhosa and Zulu, was the oldest member of the township and had not left the house in years, she said, “Black people in South Africa have fought for many years for the right to vote. That is why I must vote, no matter how many miles I have to walk, no matter how long I have to stand in line!”
The story unfolds… when a kind neighbor with a car, took Gogo, her family, and especially her six-year-old great granddaughter, to the voting poll where she was able to successfully vote. She was celebrated there as the oldest voting member of the community. The family also had a party that evening… to honor the importance of finally having the opportunity to elect their own leaders.
The warm, pastel illustrations add emotional content to the power of this moment in the lives of South Africans. They also lead the reader to focus on one’s dedication to the practice of voting as a commitment to democracy. Enjoy this inspirational story of passion, of family,of taking action for what you believe!
Watch and read along on YouTube
The Day Gogo Went To Vote read in English by Khwezi Becker of Gcinamasiko Arts & Heritage Trust
This article is part of our Newsletter 2024 Issue 2. See all articles.
