Deputy Speaker, the celebration of 150 years of our history has for the first time highlighted for other communities the struggles, the sacrifices and the massacres of indentured labourers. We must not make the mistake of looking only at people after Mahatma Gandhi, because there were other great heroes and heroines of the struggle.
I would like South Africa to know that for 101 years in this country the policy of successive white governments was: "Coolies, go back to India!" In 1961 HF Verwoerd had the courage to stand up in Parliament and say that that policy had been abandoned and that the Indians were now part of the permanent population of South Africa.
One should look at the concerns of the minorities, the concerns of the Indian community. The manner in which policies are applied is hurting them, yet they are South Africans. What we undoubtedly require is Madiba's definition of blacks, meaning Africans, coloureds and Indians. The Indian community are hurt and they are wounded.
What we require is the assurance of the hon President of our country to the Indian community that we will be treated as equal citizens within the spirit of the Constitution, which grants every citizen equality. The time has now arrived for a drastic change in the policies relating to equality and affirmative action. They should be replaced by another formula where there can be the levelling of the playing fields. There is no sense in telling the Prime Minister of India that Indians have made enormous contributions to the country, and that we were doing well, when we are treated as second-class citizens. Stand up in this Chamber and put Dr Verwoerd to shame!
As we continue to commemorate this historic event, let us never forget the incredible contributions that the Indian indentured labourers made in every facet of life. Let us remember the profound words of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhiji, who said:
Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
The true strength of an Indian is not derived from his physical form, but from his inner spirit. Today let us all commit ourselves to delivering our people from the shackles of poverty, irrespective of race, colour and creed, and march forward with courage, conviction and determination. I thank you and also wish the Muslim community Eid Mubarak for tomorrow. [Applause.]