Before visiting the Apartheid Museum in South Africa, my understanding of apartheid was limited. I knew it was a system of racial segregation, but the depth and brutality of this period were not fully clear to me. My visit to the museum changed that profoundly, leaving me with a much clearer and deeply emotional understanding of this dark chapter in South African history.

One of the most immediate and impactful experiences was right at the museum entrance, where visitors are separated by race. The museum recreates the apartheid-era entrances, with separate doors for “white” and “non-white” visitors. Walking through the “whites only” entrance was a sobering and eye-opening experience, offering a small yet powerful glimpse into the daily realities of apartheid’s racial segregation.

Upon entering the museum, the experience continued with a film that set the tone for the entire visit. It was a powerful and poignant introduction that vividly illustrated the systemic oppression and violence faced by Black, Indian, and Brown South Africans under apartheid. The film didn’t just present historical facts; it brought human stories and personal suffering to the forefront, making it impossible not to be moved.

As I walked through the exhibits, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the experiences of non-white South Africans and the treatment of Black people in the United States. The segregation, discrimination, and fight for civil rights echoed the struggles faced by African Americans. This realization was both enlightening and distressing, highlighting the universal nature of racial injustice and the long road still ahead in the fight for equality.

The museum’s extensive exhibits offered a deep dive into the various aspects of apartheid, from the implementation of racially discriminatory laws to the courageous resistance efforts by oppressed communities. Each museum section was rich with information, photographs, and personal testimonies, creating an immersive and educational experience. However, due to time constraints, I wasn’t able to explore every part of the exhibit as thoroughly as I would have liked. There was so much more to learn and reflect upon, and I left wishing I had more time to absorb it all.

Before leaving, I made a stop at the museum’s gift shop. I wanted to bring back something to share with my family and coworkers, to keep the conversation about apartheid and its impacts going. I picked up bookmarks and keychains, small tokens that I hoped would remind me of the lessons learned and the stories heard.

My visit to the Apartheid Museum was truly transformative. It not only educated me about a significant part of South Africa’s history but also deepened my understanding of racial issues globally. I left with a heavy heart but also with a renewed sense of purpose to continue learning, sharing, and advocating for justice and equality. If you ever find yourself in South Africa, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is an absolute must. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

–by Dani Williams, CSHPE master’s student