South Africa has bid a heartfelt farewell to Amy Thornton, a dedicated veteran activist and Esteemed Member of the Order of Luthuli, who passed away at the age of 91. President Cyril Ramaphosa, along with countless South Africans, mourns the loss of a woman who dedicated her life to the relentless pursuit of justice, equality, and freedom for all.
Amy Thornton, born in Cape Town in 1932, was a remarkable figure in the struggle against apartheid. Her story is a testament to unwavering commitment, courage, and resilience.
Thornton’s journey into activism began at the tender age of 16 when she joined forces with the Communist Party of South Africa to campaign against the National Party during the pivotal 1948 election. This election marked the beginning of apartheid’s legislated oppression, and young Amy Thornton was already on the frontlines, standing up for justice.
As the years passed, Amy’s commitment to the cause only grew stronger. In 1950, she became part of the Modern Youth Society (MYS), a progressive youth movement primarily composed of university students. Through MYS, Thornton was actively involved in night school literacy classes for African workers in the Cape Town docks, empowering them through education.
The formation of the Congress of Democrats (COD) in 1952 saw Thornton taking on the role of secretary for the Joint Congress Committee, which brought together the COD, the African National Congress (ANC), the South African Indian Congress, and the Coloured Peoples’ Congress. She worked tirelessly to unite these organizations in their shared goal of ending apartheid.
Amy Thornton’s activism knew no borders. In 1953, she represented the MYS as part of the South African delegation to the World Federation of Democratic Youth held in Bucharest, Romania. At home, she joined the underground South African Communist Party (SACP) and engaged in pamphleteering against oppressive legislation like the Group Areas Act and the Bantu Education Act.
She also played a vital role in conducting study classes in informal settlements around Cape Town, such as Blouvlei and Elsies River, demonstrating her commitment to grassroots empowerment.
When the Treason Trial began in 1956, Amy Thornton was there to support the cause, serving on the Treason Trial Support Committee. She also contributed to the Guardian newspaper and its successive titles, working on research and editorial tasks.
However, her unwavering dedication came at a cost. In 1959, she was banned for the first time, a ban that would be extended several times. Despite facing these restrictions, she persisted, serving 14 years under banning orders and losing her job as a nursery school teacher.
In 1981, Amy Thornton became a founding member and deputy chairperson of the United Women’s Organisation, a crucial precursor to the United Democratic Front (UDF). Her tireless efforts and leadership helped lay the foundation for these vital organizations in the fight against apartheid.
Throughout her life, Amy Thornton faced detentions and hardships as a result of her activism. She remained undeterred and continued her work, even during the turbulent years of the two states of emergency in the 1980s.
Ms. Thornton’s contributions extended beyond the struggle against apartheid. She served on the National Coordinating Committee for the Return of Exiles from 1990 to 1993, aiding in the process of rebuilding a nation torn apart by racial segregation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to Amy Thornton, highlighting her principled resistance, bravery, and perseverance. He emphasized her role in preserving the non-racial character of the liberation struggle, debunking the myth that white South Africans were unaware of the country’s issues or lacked the power to effect change.
“Amy Thornton served our nation with great courage and tireless energy,” President Ramaphosa stated. “May her soul now rest in peace.”
Amy Thornton’s legacy is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to bring about a free and equal South Africa. As the nation mourns her passing, her spirit of resilience and her commitment to justice will continue to inspire generations to come.
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