Megan Choritz calls for active citizenship in memory of Nabil Swart

South African-born playwright, actor, and director Megan Choritz paid tribute to the late freedom fighter Nabil “Basil” Swart at the annual Nabil Basil Swart Memorial Lecture, held on Sunday, October 5, at Alexander Sinton High School in Crawford.

Now 60, Ms Choritz, a Jewish woman raised under apartheid and known for her outspoken activism, reflected on Mr Swart’s personal and political sacrifices in the fight against apartheid, linking his legacy to ongoing struggles for justice today.

Speaking to a small but engaged audience that included the Swart family and local activists, she urged South Africans to fully appreciate and make use of the democratic freedoms they now have.

“Swart literally put his body on the line in the struggle against apartheid,” Ms Choritz said. “Today, the struggle may be different, but our responsibilities remain. Privilege means nothing if we don’t use it.”

Ms Choritz described zionism as "apartheid on steroids" and called on citizens to take bold action in solidarity with the oppressed, particularly through boycotts. "Boycotts make a difference. We must encourage our government to take principled stands. Let us not be mere voters or beggars, let us be active participants in democracy."

Speaking about Mr Swart’s role as a teacher and activist, Ms Choritz said he inspired courage and resistance during the 1980s. “He didn’t just teach history at Alexander Sinton High; he helped shape it. He led students, teachers, and parents in turning this school into a space of resistance.”

"On September 17, 1985, while many activists were arrested and quickly released, it was Swart who was detained, interrogated, and abused by the security branch. He paid the price for his courage.”

She called on educators, students, and communities to reclaim that same spirit of activism. “Our democracy cannot function without active citizens. The youth must rise and engage with the challenges they face today.”

Her message was echoed by Mr Swart’s son and activist Dehran Swart, who spoke of the importance of continuing his father’s legacy. “My father was an active citizen from a young age, involved in soup kitchens even in the early 80s. We need to pass that spirit on to young people. They must understand where they come from and where they are going.”

The memorial lecture sparked what attendees described as “courageous conversations,” creating a platform for reflection, critique, and action. 

Thirty years into democracy, aluta continua — the struggle continues.