Lack of respect for graveyards, or the dead for that matter, particularly in the black communities of Khayelitsha, Gugulethu and Langa (three townships with cemeteries) is quite worrisome.
Growing up we were taught about the importance of graveyards and to afford the deceased due respect. As a child I never went to a funeral. The first I ever attended was my grandmother’s in 1994 when in Standard 9 (Grade 11). It was not a particularly pleasant experience, albeit necessary. It was the first time I had a close-up view of a grave close-up and my first experience of looking down at a dead person.
As children we respected graves and cemeteries. We would never walk or get closer to the graves in respect of the departed. Cemeteries were regarded as sacred places. People visited them during funerals or to conduct family rituals. They were highly respected and valued. The status quo remains when one visits the rural communities. Graves and graveyards are highly regarded and respected. More than 30 years later my grandmother’s grave is immaculate. The same cannot be said about our beloved townships. There has been a surge in the destruction of graveyards and cemeteries. Many years ago the NY5 graveyard was such a dignified place, with many towering trees rendering shade to our departed family members. The site was secured and commanded a lot of respect. As with other graveyards, the site has become an eyesore. It’s not only a dumping site, but a place of many ungodly activities. The fence has been stolen, not once but numerous times.
Where did we go wrong mzontsundu?
Graveyards have turned into places of criminal activity. We so often hear or read about vandalism of cemeteries and their tombs. These are carried out by young people with no moral compass, individuals hell-bent on making ends meet at all costs or junkies determined to get the fix. The community may not be aware of the perpetrators, but what happened to the teachings we received as children? Why aren’t we passing some of these to the current generation? Why aren’t we telling them about the importance of the graveyards?
Do not get me wrong; I do not idolise the departed. I do not conduct any rituals associated with the dead. I believe in God and He has carried me through many things. However, I still believe graves carry a huge sentimental value. They form part of our history. Today I can show my children my grandmother’s grave. In years to come they will be able to narrate their history without blemish. As young as they are they know their roots, and when my time comes I will be laid to rest next to my other family members in Ngcele. My grave will give them a point of reference. What about all those families who cannot do the same due to the ongoing vandalism? It is particularly concerning that there are businesses that actually thrive on the proceeds of this ongoing destruction. This cannot continue indefinitely. We must rise up against the mayhem that exists in our communities.
