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Cry Freedom, Donald Woods, Steve Biko

Description: Christopher Lydon reports on the release of the film Cry Freedom, based on the life of Steve Biko (martyred black South African leader). Lydon notes that the film is told from the perspective of Donald Woods (white newspaper editor). Lydon interviews Woods about apartheid and his relationship with Biko. Woods says that the black opposition in South Africa was forced to become violent in response to the brutal tactics of the white regime. Woods talks about his early opposition to Biko and the black movement; he says that he changed his opinion when he realized that Biko's positive message of black self-reliance was not anti-white. Lydon notes that Biko was killed in prison while Woods was exiled from South Africa. Lydon's report is accompanied by footage from the film and from the trailer of the film Cry Freedom. Editor's note: Additional footage from the film and the trailer of the film Cry Freedom, were edited out of the end of the tape.
1:00:00: Visual: Footage from the trailer for the 1987 film, Cry Freedom starring Kevin Kline and Denzel Washington. Christopher Lydon reports that the film Cry Freedom is a the story of Steve Biko (martyred black South African leader) told through the eyes of a white newspaper editor. V: Footage from the film, Cry Freedom. Lydon notes that the film Cry Freedom takes up where the 1982 film Gandhi left off. Lydon notes that Mahatma Gandhi (Indian leader) was born in South Africa. V: Footage of Donald Woods (South African journalist) being interviewed. Woods says that he has always considered Gandhi more of a South African than an Indian. Woods says that Gandhi was involved in the first attempts at non-violent protest in South Africa. Woods says that non-violent protest does not work very well in South Africa because the government forces are not afraid to use their guns. Woods says that the African National Congress (ANC) was forced to take up arms after fifty years of non-violent struggle. Woods says that the South African government does not respond to non-violent protests; that the South African government has forced the opposition to become violent. Woods says that black South Africans are not allowed to vote; that black South Africans are not allowed to campaign against anything. Woods notes that the South African government refuses to allow free speech or passive protests. Lydon remarks that the irony of the film Cry Freedom is that a white editor tells the story of a black victim. Lydon notes the same irony exists in his interviews with Woods. Lydon reports that Woods never wanted to equate the price he paid with the price paid by Biko. Lydon reports that Woods was exiled and banned from South Africa; that Biko was killed in prison. V: Footage from the film, Cry Freedom. Shot of Woods being interviewed. Footage of Woods being interviewed by Lydon. Lydon asks if Woods was converted by Biko. Woods says that Biko did not set out to convert him; that Biko set out to neutralize the activities and writings of Woods. Woods says that he had been writing editorials condemning black consciousness. Woods says that he mistakenly considered black consciousness to be racism in reverse at the time. Woods says that he began to realize that Biko's message was a positive message of black self-reliance. Woods says that black racism is not and never has been a factor in black politics in South Africa. Woods notes that the ANC was formed in 1912; that no credible black leader or organization in South Africa has ever been anti-white. V: Footage from the film, Cry Freedom.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/06/1987

Northeastern honors Nelson Mandela

Description: Marcus Jones reports on Northeastern University's observation of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. Jones notes that a ceremony commemorating King's life was held at the university. Jones' report includes footage from the ceremony. Sonia Sanchez (poet and teacher) talks about King. Jones' report also includes footage of King. Susan Sullivan (Northeastern Law student) makes the announcement that the university is awarding an honorary law degree to Nelson Mandela. Interviews with Daniel Givelber (Dean, Northeastern University School of Law) and Sullivan about the decision to award a degree to Mandela. Jones notes that the university trustees overturned a policy which required recipients of degrees to pick them up in person. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: David Scondras, Charles Yancey and Ray Flynn: Boston City Council makes fair housing policy
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of an African American man performing a song at a ceremony commemorating the life of Martin Luther King (civil rights leader) at Northeastern University. Shots of the audience. Marcus Jones reports that hundreds of people gathered at Northeastern to commemorate the life of King; that King's 59th birthday is Friday. V: Shots of King addressing a crowd; of King marching at the head of a group of civil rights demonstrators. Footage of Sonia Sanchez (poet and teacher) talks about King's struggle to advance the cause of civil rights. Sanchez says that King's work is not finished. Shots of audience members applauding. Jones reports that Sanchez was the featured speaker at the ceremony; that the remarks of Susan Sullivan (Northeastern Law student) were the highlight of the event. V: Footage of Sullivan announcing that the Board of Trustees at Northeastern University has decided to award an honorary law degree to Nelson Mandela (jailed South African leader). The crowd applauds. Jones reports that Northeastern law students have petitioned the university for three years to grant a degree to Mandela. V: Shot of the entrance to the library at Northeastern Law School. Shot of a paper taped to the door of the library. A handwritten note on the paper reads, "Trustees grant Mandela Honorary Degree." Jones reports that the request had been previously denied due to a policy which required recipients of degrees to pick them up in person. Jones notes that Mandela has been jailed by the South African government because of his opposition to apartheid. V: Black and white footage of Mandela speaking; of a sign for Pollsmoor Prison, where Mandela is held. Jones notes that the university's decision to accede to the demands of students and faculty is unprecedented. V: Footage of Jones interviewing Daniel Givelber (Dean, Northeastern University School of Law). Givelbar says that Northeastern has an unusually diverse group of Trustees; that the Trustees felt like they were doing the right thing. Givelbar notes that the Board of Trustees made the decision to divest two years ago. Footage of Susan Sullivan saying that the degree should have been granted when the students first petitioned for it; that the law students should not have had to fight so hard for it. Sullivan says that international recognition could hasten Mandela's release from jail. Jones notes that the scheduled protest by the students turned into a celebration. Jones says that Northeastern students hope that other universities will follow Northeastern's example.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/14/1988

State purchasing and South Africa

Description: Christy George reports that Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to divest its pension funds from South Africa five years ago. She adds that apartheid opponents are backing a selective purchasing bill that would bar the state from buying goods and services from companies who do business in South Africa. Ric Murphy, State Purchasing Agent, testifies in support of the bill in front of state legislators. Joseph Hermann, Chairman of State Administration Committee, wants the state to stop doing business with all countries with repressive governments. Hermann testifies before state legislators. Governor Michael Dukakis supports the bill. The bill will probably not be passed in time to help his presidential campaign. Former State Senator Jack Backman speaks in support of Dukakis. Georges' report is also accompanied by footage of scenes from apartheid South Africa and by footage of IBM workers and laborers in South Africa.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of Themba Vilakazi (Director, Fund for a Free South Africa) speaking to an audience of apartheid opponents. Audience members applaud Vilakazi. Audience members hold signs protesting apartheid. Shot of two audience members holding signs reading, "Free South Africa." Christy George reports that Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to divest its pension funds from South Africa five years ago. George adds that apartheid opponents want the state to stop buying goods and services from companies who do business in South Africa. V: Footage from WGBX of Ric Murphy (State Purchasing Agent) addressing a legislative hearing at the State House. Murphy says that the state should not condone businesses who support apartheid. George stands in front of the Massachusetts State House. George reports that legislators wonder if divestment is the best way to help black South Africans. V: Shots of South African police officers beating protesters on a street in May of 1986; of protesters fleeing from a park in South Africa; of South African police officers. George reports that proponents of divestment say that the Massachusetts government buys goods and services from companies which pay taxes to support the South African government. Opponents of divestment says that American companies offer jobs and training to South African blacks. V: Shots of the exterior of the IBM headquarters in South Africa; of a black man in a business suit in front of the IBM building; of a factory in South Africa; of a white worker working in an automobile factory. George reports that Joseph Hermann (Chairman, State Administration Committee) wants the state to stop doing business with South Africa and other countries with repressive governments. V: Footage of Hermann saying that the state needs to reflect on the repression occurring in Northern Ireland, South Africa, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Liberia. George reports that Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) campaigns against apartheid; that Dukakis supports the proposed selective purchasing bill. V: Shot of Dukakis addressing a crowd. State leaders including George Keverian (Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) stand behind him. Footage of Jack Backman (former State Senator) saying that Dukakis should be elected president as a candidate with no ties to South Africa. Shot of Royal Bolling, Sr. at the legislative hearing. George reports that the bill will probably not be passed in time to help Dukakis' presidential campaign.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/25/1988

Laquidara and Shell boycott

Description: Hope Kelly reports that Charles Laquidara (WBCN disc jockey) is leading a radio campaign against the Shell Oil Company. Laquidara is encouraging listeners to cut up their Shell credit cards to protest Shell's involvement with the repressive South African government. The campaign is part of a larger international boycott aimed at all Shell products. Interview with Laquidara about the campaign. Footage of Laquidara and employees in the WBCN studios and footage of Roger Clemens (Boston Red Sox) in the WBCN studios. Kelly quotes Norm Allsteader (Shell Oil Company) as denying any Shell involvement with the South African government. Kelly reports that Jerry Straccia (Shell Oil dealer in East Boston) is feeling the effects of the boycott. Interview with Straccia about the boycott. Straccia criticizes the boycott. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following items: Teachers and parents are frustrated over new starting times for the Boston Public Schools for the coming school year and Meg Vaillancourt interviews Elma Lewis about the Roxbury neighborhood
1:00:13: Visual: Footage of Charles Laquidara (WBCN disc jockey) in the WBCN radio studio. Laquidara introduces a song. Shots of Laquidara putting up anti-apartheid signs in the studio. Shots of the signs. Footage of Laquidara saying on-air that the Shell Oil Company supports the South African "military machine." Hope Kelly reports that Laquidara is leading a radio campaign called "Shell shock"; that Laquidara is encouraging radio listeners to cut up their Shell credit cards in order to protest Shell's involvement with the South African government. V: Shots of a WBCN female employee opening the mail; of cut up credit cards pulled from the envelopes. Kelly reports that local celebrities are participating in the campaign. V: Footage of Roger Clemens (Boston Red Sox pitcher) in the WBCN studio. Clemens reads an anti-apartheid radio spot. Kelly reports that Clemens came in to do a radio spot; that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has turned in his credit card. V: Shots of WBCN employee pulling cut-up credit cards from envelopes received by WBCN. V: Footage of Laquidara in the studio, being interviewed by Kelly. Laquidara says that twenty or thirty credit cards are being turned in each day; that he would like to see 1,000 credit cards be turned in each day. Laquidara says that each credit card represents money to Shell. Shot of a sign above a Shell gas station. Kelly reports that the Shell Company says that the campaign has had no effect. V: Footage of Laquidara saying that he hopes these campaigns will convince Shell to get out of South Africa; that he hopes other companies will follow suit. Laquidara says getting out of South Africa is the right thing for Shell to do. Shot of a radio script with instructions for listeners on how to participate in the campaign. Kelly reports that Laquidara's campaign is part of a larger international boycott aimed at all Shell products. Kelly notes that Royal Dutch Shell has approximately 300 subsidiaries; that Shell Oil Company is a visible subsidiary in the US. V: Shot of Laquidara in the studio holding a bumper sticker reading, "Get the Shell out of South Africa." Laquidara speaks on the air. Shots of a car pulling up to a Shell gas station; of a large Shell sign above the gas station. A quote from Norm Allsteader (Shell Oil Company) appears written on-screen. Kelly quotes Norm Allsteader (Shell Oil Company) as saying that "Shell Oil Company has no employees, no investments, and certainly sells no oil to South Africa." V: Footage of Laquidara saying that members of the Board of Directors of Royal Dutch Shell sit in on board meetings at the Shell subsidiary in Houston, Texas. A second quote from Norm Allsteader (Shell Oil Company) appears written on-screen. Kelly quotes Allsteader as saying, "No Shell company outside of South Africa is sending any oil to South Africa." V: Shot of Jerry Straccia (Shell oil dealer in East Boston) wiping the gas pumps clean at his Shell gas station. Kelly stands in the parking lot of Straccia's Shell station in East Boston. Kelly reports that there are over 300 Shell stations in New England. Kelly notes that Straccia says that he is feeling the effects of the boycott. V: Footage of Straccia standing in front of gas pumps at his station. Straccia says that Laquidara's campaign is going to hurt a lot of people before it affects Shell. Shot of the Shell sign above Straccia's gas station. Shot of Straccia and a mechanic looking under the hood of a car. Audio of Straccia saying that he has noticed a 50% drop in business; that the decline is most noticeable during the morning hours when Laquidara is on the air. Kelly reports that Straccia has been a Shell dealer for over three years; that Straccia had been a fan of Laquidara until now. V: Shots of Straccia standing near the gas pumps; of the handle of a gas pump in the gas tank of a car. Kelly reports that Straccia has not spoken to any other Shell dealers about the campaign; that Straccia has spoken to Laquidara. V: Footage of Straccia saying that Laquidara told him that he understands Straccia's position. Straccia says that he does not think that Laquidara understands how much he is hurting Straccia. Footage of Laquidara saying that he does not know how long he will keep the campaign going.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/23/1988

Rev. Allan Boesak

Description: Christy George reports that the Reverend Allan Boesak, an anti-apartheid activist, received an award at Harvard University. He gives a speech at the university in which he urges western countries to place economic sanctions on the South African government. He criticizes Ronald Reagan and other western leaders for supporting the South African government. Boesak, at a press conference after the awards ceremony, praises Dukakis for imposing sanction and and urges George Bush to impose sanctions on South Africa. Boesak talks about the effectiveness of sanctions. George's report includes footage of Bush talking about South Africa and footage of apartheid South Africa. Following the edited story is additional footage of Boesak's press conference at Harvard.
1:00:00: Visual: Footage of Dr. Allan Boesak (anti-apartheid activist) preaching at Memorial Church at Harvard University. Boesak says that the lives of many South African blacks could have been saved if Ronald Reagan (US President) and other Western leaders had divested from South Africa in 1985. Footage of South African police brutally arresting South African blacks. Christy George reports that Boesak is one of the few South African church leaders who would dare to blame Reagan for the deaths of South African children. V: Footage of Boesak at Harvard. Boesak accuses Reagan, Margaret Thatcher (Prime Minister of Great Britain), and Helmut Kohl (Chancellor of Germany) of supporting the South African government. Boesak says that these leaders refused to impose sanctions on the apartheid government. George reports that Boesak is outspoken; that Boesak received an award from Harvard University today; that Boesak chided Harvard for investing in South Africa. V: Shots of Memorial Church at Harvard University; of Boesak receiving an award from a Harvard official. George notes that Boesak praised Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) for imposing sanctions against South Africa; that Boesak begged George Bush (US President-elect) to do the same. V: Footage of Bush on October 25, 1988. Bush says that the South African government is racist; that the US needs to stay engaged; that the US needs to use its "moral influence" to change the South African government. Footage of Boesak at a press conference at Harvard University. Boesak says that he hopes Bush will follow the example of Massachusetts; that the US should divest from South Africa. Boesak says that he wishes Dukakis had been elected president. Boesak says that Bush has talked about his commitment to civil rights; that Bush needs to act on his commitment. Footage of South African blacks running from police on January 10, 1988. George reports that Boesak says that the South African government is redoubling its efforts to enforce apartheid laws. V: Footage of Boesak saying that he his tired of lame excuses from western governments. Boesak says that western leaders are lying when they talk about their concern for South African blacks. Boesak talks about the US government's commitment to sanctions against Cuba, Libya, Argentina and Nicaragua. George reports that Boesak says that sanctions are effective; that war has become too expensive for the South African government. George reports that Boesak points to the end of wars in Namibia and Angola as proof of the effectiveness of sanctions. V: Footage of Africans celebrating in the streets; of Africans marching in the street; of African soldiers watching a plane taxi on a runway. Footage of Boesak at a press conference. Boesak talks about sanctions. Boesak says that the South African government should be cut off from oil and from access to the international money market. Boesak says that no South African blacks would be hurt if air links to and from South African were cut off. Boesak says that he and Desmond Tutu (South African anti-apartheid leader) are the only two South African blacks who fly anywhere.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/17/1989

Divestment, Tutu, Harvard overseers

Description: Jan von Mehren reports that a small band of Harvard Alumni have announced the candidacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu (black South African leader) for the Harvard University Board of Overseers. Von Mehren notes that the Board of Overseers is elected by university alumni to make policy recommendations. She adds that Tutu is on a slate of candidates nominated by the Harvard/Radcliffe Alumni Against Apartheid organization. Von Mehren's report includes footage of Alumni Against Apartheid members Robert Wolff, Robert Zevin, and Linda Davidoff addressing a small crowd on the Harvard Campus. Wolff says that the Board of Overseers will have a hard time explaining to Tutu why they have not divested completely from South Africa. Von Mehren notes that Harvard has divested some its holdings in South Africa. She adds that university officials have no comment on Tutu's candidacy or on their divestment policy. Von Mehren's report also features footage of apartheid protesters at Harvard and footage of Tutu in South Africa. This tape includes additional footage of the Alumni Against Apartheid gathering on the Harvard campus.This tape also includes footage of Archbishop Desmond Tutu speaking. Students walking through Harvard Yard.
1:00:16: Visual: Footage of Robert Wolff (Alumni Against Apartheid) standing in front of the office of Derek Bok (President, Harvard University) in Massachusetts Hall on Harvard campus. Robert Zevin (Alumni Against Apartheid) and Linda Davidoff (Alumni Against Apartheid) stand on either side of Wolff. Jan von Mehren reports that a small band of Harvard Alumni gathered outside of Bok's office in Harvard Yard today. Von Mehren reports that the Alumni announced the candidacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu (black South African leader) for the Harvard University Board of Overseers. V: Footage of Wolff saying that he looks forward to the first meeting of the Board of Overseers with Tutu present. Wolff says that he would like to see Bok explain to the Overseers and Tutu why divestment is not in the best interests of black South Africans. Von Mehren reports that the thirty-member Board of Overseers is elected by the university alumni; that the Board of Overseers makes policy recomendations. V: Shots of Harvard students walking in Harvard Yard. Shot of Tutu at a religious service. Von Mehren reports that Tutu is one of five candidates on a slate nominated by the Harvard/Radcliffe Alumni Against Apartheid organization. Von Mehren reports that Zevin and Davidoff are also running for the Board. V: Footage of Zevin and Davidoff standing in front of Bok's office. Davidoff says that she expected Harvard to be a leader on issues like divestment; that Harvard needs to make its alumni proud again. Shots of apartheid protestors at Harvard University on September 5, 1986. Von Mehren reports that has decreased its investments in South Africa since the 1970s; that $250 million remains invested in companies doing business in South Africa. V: Footage of Davidoff saying that Harvard's divestment policy is "part-way there." Footage of Wolff saying that Archibishop Tutu will win a debate with Bok on divestment. Von Mehren stands in Harvard Yard. Von Mehren reports that university officials have no comment on Harvard's divestment policy or on Tutu's candidacy for the Board of Overseers. V: Footage of Wolff saying that Harvard officials never admit to caving in to outside pressure. Wolff says that Harvard has already divested part of its holdings in response to pressure from alumni, faculty, and students. Von Mehren reports that Tutu and the pro-divestment slate will be running against Elizabeth Dole (US Secretary of Labor), Paul Kirk (former Chairman of the Democratic Party), and others. V: Shots of Tutu; of Dole; of Kirk. Von Mehren reports that the winners will be announced at Harvard's graduation in June. Von Mehren notes that Tutu's election to the Board of Overseers will force Harvard to reevaluate its divestment policy. V: Shots of Harvard students walking in Harvard Yard.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/09/1989

Zwelakhe Sisulu interview

Description: Carmen Fields interviews South African journalist Zwelakhe Sisulu about the situation in South Africa. Sisulu was jailed for two years without charges by the South African government. Footage of Sisulu celebrating with his family upon his release from jail. Sisulu discusses his confinement and the terms of his release. He talks about the government's censorship of the press, including his newspaper New Nation. Sisulu urges the US to impose sanctions on the South African government and talks about the effects of sanctions. Fields notes that F.W. de Klerk is expected to be elected the new leader of South Africa on September 6, 1989, and the black majority in South Africa is not allowed to vote. Fields's report includes footage of de Klerk giving a speech and footage of South African citizens. Sisulu says that does not believe that de Klerk will institute changes in the South African regime. Sisulu says that the black majority will not be content with negotiations. He says that the tension is great because the black majority wants a transfer of power.
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of Zwelakhe Sisulu (South African journalist) being interviewed by Carmen Fields. Sisulu says that he spent nine months in solitary confinement. Fields reports that Sisulu was in jail in South Africa last year; that Sisulu was detained for two years without charges being brought against him. V: Footage of Sisulu talking about the negative psychological effects of detention. Sisulu says that confinement can often strengthen the resolve of the prisoner. Footage from a news story from December 2, 1988. The news footage shows Sisulu celebrating with his family upon being released from jail. Shot of Sisulu sitting next to a woman who is speaking to the media at a press conference. Shot of the media at the press conference. Fields reports that Sisulu is forbidden from attending gatherings of more than ten people; that Sisulu is banned from speaking to or being quoted by the press; that Sisulu is banned from practicing his profession of journalist. Fields reports that Sisulu was the editor of the New Nation newspaper. V: Shot of the masthead of the New Nation newspaper. Fields reports that Sisulu now works in the circulation department of the newspaper. V: Footage of Sisulu talking about the difficult conditions in South Africa. Sisulu says that the New Nation newspaper was banned for three months last year. Shots of the offices of the New Nation newspaper; of employees in the offices of the New Nation newspaper. Sisulu says that the newspaper has a lawyer who advises them on the regulations of South African law. Sisulu says that it is no longer possible for lawyers to advise them on the law. Sisulu says that the emergency regulations imposed by the South African government are arbitrary; that police officers are the sole arbiters of the law. Shot of a poster with photographs of imprisoned South African leaders including Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela. Fields reports that Zwelakhe Sisulu's father, Walter Sisulu, is imprisoned; that there have been rumors of the impending release of Mandela and the elder Sisulu. V: Footage of Zwelakhe Sisulu saying that the South African regime is playing politics. Sisulu says that the South African government may be making conciliatory moves in order to convince Western governments to roll over their debts next year. Sisulu says that the South African governments always talk about releasing Mandela when they want to improve their relations with the outside world. Sisulu says that he does not believe these rumors. Fields reports that Sisulu believes that US business sanctions are effective. V: Footage of Sisulu saying that the flight of US capital from South Africa has had a sobering effect on the South African government. Sisulu says that the South African government has pulled out of Angola as a result of US sanctions. Sisulu says that the South African government is now trying to attract investment to the country; that the government is facing an economic crisis. Fields asks Sisulu about the effects of sanctions on black South Africans. Sisulu says that many black South Africans have lost their jobs as a result of sanctions; that black South Africans are prepared to suffer in order to bring down the South African regime. Sisulu says that the effects of sanctions are now visible. Footage of F.W. de Klerk (South African National Party leader) addressing an audience of white South Africans. De Klerk says that South Africa can be saved if there is hope in the hearts of all people. Shot of de Klerk and a woman walking on a street in South Africa. Fields reports that de Klerk is expected to succeed P.W. Botha as president of South Africa. V: Shot of white South African officials walking in a garden. Fields reports that South Africa's election day is September 6; that the country's black majority is not allowed to vote. Fields notes that some white South Africans do not support changes in the country's regime. V: Shot of a black South African and a white South African walking past a store. Shot of a white man and a white boy sitting on swings at a playground. A sign posted on the fence of the playground reads "Whites only." Footage of Sisulu saying that many believe that de Klerk will promote change within the South African military regime. Sisulu says that all nationalist prime ministers begin their terms on a conciliatory note. Sisulu refers to former South African leader John Foster and present leader Botha. Sisulu says that de Klerk's statement are aimed at improving South Africa's image abroad. Sisulu says that de Klerk's statements have no substance. Shot of de Klerk addressing an audience of white South Africans. Footage of Sisulu saying that the South African regime has made it known that it might be ready to negotiate with black liberation movements. Sisulu says that the black liberation movements do not want to negotiate with the South African regime; that the black liberation movements will only discuss a transfer of power. Sisulu says that the tensions within South Africa are very great; that the housing shortage is severe; that there is a shortage of schools. Sisulu says that the situation in South Africa is likely to become explosive once again.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/08/1989

Lindiwe Mabuza

Description: Carmen Fields interviews Lindiwe Mabuza of the African National Congress about apartheid in South Africa. Mabuza says that F.W. de Klerk, the President of South Africa, is not committed to fundamental changes in the regime. She adds that the ANC is struggling for a united, democratic, and non-racial South Africa. Fields reports that black South Africans are celebrating the recent release of eight political prisoners. Mabuza talks about the release of the prisoners and the role of the ANC. Mabuza discusses the possibility of negotiations with the South African government. She reviews the conditions under which black South Africans could negotiate with the South African government. Mabuza talks about her support for sanctions on the South African government. Fields' report is accompanied by footage of de Klerk, footage of black South Africans celebrating the release of prisoners and footage of a large demonstration by black South Africans.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of Lindiwe Mabuza (African National Congress Representative to the US) being interviewed by Carmen Fields. Mabuza says that there will be little difference between the administrations of P.W. Botha (former president of South Africa) and F.W. de Klerk (president of South Africa). Mabuza says that de Klerk is not committed to fundamental changes in the apartheid policy of the South African government. Fields reports that de Klerk was elected by the small minority of white South Africans; that de Klerk does not support the one person, one vote concept. Fields reports that the African National Congress (ANC) does not agree with de Klerk's vision of a post-apartheid nation. V: Shots of de Klerk and white South African government officials in a governmental chamber. Footage of Mabuza saying that the ANC is struggling for a united, democratic ,and non-racial South Africa. Mabuza says that South Africa is currently divided by apartheid. Mabuza says that de Klerk believes that there are many groups and nations within South Africa; that de Klerk wants to divide the black South Africans into groups; that these divisions are a continuation of apartheid. Fields reports that black South Africans are celebrating the recent release of eight political prisoners; that seven of the eight released prisoners are high-ranking ANC officials. Fields reports that the released prisoners met in Soweto today to plan for an ANC rally. V: Shots of black South Africans singing together as they celebrate the release of the prisoners; of white South African military police. Shots of the released prisoners outside of the prison; of the released prisoners walking in a group; of a released prisoner greeting a friend. Footage of Mabuza being interviewed by Fields. Mabuza says that the released ANC officials should re-assume their leadership roles. Mabuza says that the leaders have been released without restrictions; that the leaders should address the problems of black South Africans. Mabuza says that de Klerk cannot afford to put the leaders in prison again; that de Klerk has publicized the release of the prisoners in order to make the South African government look good. Fields asks about negotiations with the South African government to end apartheid. Mabuza says that the South African government must lift the state of emergency; that the government must withdraw troops from civilian areas; that the government must release thousands of political prisoners including Nelson Mandela (jailed South African leader). Mabuza says that the government must lift its ban on the ANC; that the government must lift restrictions on other organizations and banned individuals. Mabuza says that the government must make these changes in order to negotiate in good faith with black South Africans. Fields reports that Mabuza does not believe that sanctions hurt black South Africans. V: Shot of a man putting up a poster with a newspaper headline reading, "Unity on SA blown apart by Thatcher." Footage of Mabuza saying that millions of blacks are out of work and suffering because of apartheid; that black South Africans are willing to make sacrifices to end apartheid. Mabuza says that black South Africans want change in South Africa. Shots of a large demonstration by black South Africans. Many are holding signs and banners.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/23/1989

US view of ANC

Description: Carmen Fields interviews Herman Cohen, the US Assistant Undersecretary for African Affairs, about South Africa. The African National Congress held its first public rally in thirty years yesterday and celebrated the release of ANC political leaders. In the interview, Cohen says that the US is encouraging the South African government to negotiate with the black majority. Cohen discusses the recent change in political climate in South Africa. He talks about the possibility of negotiations between the black majority and the government. Cohen says that the South African government must lift restrictions on political organizations like the ANC. He says that the US may lift some sanctions if the South African government makes progress toward ending apartheid. Cohen talks about the effects of sanctions on the South African government.
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of Herman Cohen (Assistant Undersecretary of State for African Affairs) being interviewed by Carmen Fields. Cohen says that the US is encouraging the South African government to reach a negotiated settlement with the black majority. Cohen says that the South African government needs to realize the necessity of eliminating racial barriers in South Africa. Cohen notes that the US has told black South African that negotiations are a better strategy than conflict. Fields reports that the African National Congress (ANC) has been banned by the South African government; that the ANC held its first public rally in thirty years yesterday; that the ANC celebrated the release of its leaders from prison. Fields notes that the South African police did not interfere with the rally; that yesterday's events show a new maturity on the part of both sides. V: Shots of the ANC rally on October 29, 1989 in Johannesburg. Shots of black South Africans at the rally; of the released ANC leaders at the rally; of the large crowd at the stadium where the rally was held; of a sign for the ANC. Footage of Cohen being interviewed by Fields. Cohen says that the white South African government is releasing political prisoners; that the government has allowed political demonstrations; that the government is restoring some normalcy to political life in the country. Cohen says that black South Africans have been holding peaceful demonstrations. Cohen says that he hopes the new political climate will lead toward negotiations. Fields asks about the US position on negotiations. Cohen says that the US wants many of the same things that the ANC wants. Cohen says that the South African government must release political prisoners; that the government must lift restrictions on political organizations. Cohen says that negotiations can proceed once those conditions have been met. Fields asks if George Bush (US President) will ask F.W. de Klerk (President of South Africa) to visit the White House. Cohen says that he doubts that Bush will ask de Klerk to visit the White House. Cohen notes that US policy has focused on events in South Africa. Cohen says that US officials have agreed to maintain existing pressures on the South African government; that the US may lift some sanctions if de Klerk's new government makes progress toward ending apartheid. Cohen says that the US may increase pressure on South Africa if no changes are made. Fields notes that the Bush administration is more supportive of sanctions than the administration of former US President Ronald Reagan. V: Footage of Cohen being interviewed by Fields. Cohen notes that sanctions went into effect in October of 1986; that the Bush administration has seen the positive impact of sanctions. Cohen says that the white minority is beginning to realize that they must negotiate with the black majority. Cohen notes that sanctions threaten the lifestyle of the white minority. Cohen notes that sanctions have caused an increase in the unemployment rate in South Africa. Cohen says that the US is looking forward to lifting sanctions after political progress is made.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/30/1989

Gabu Tugwana interview, Part 1

Description: Christy George reports that F.W. de Klerk, the President of South Africa, announced that the ban on the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa will be lifted, and Nelson Mandela will be freed. George's report includes footage of de Klerk making the announcement and footage of Desmond Tutu reacting to the announcement. George's report also features footage of black and white South Africans reacting to the news and footage of black South Africans celebrating. George interviews Gabu Tugwana, the editor of The New Nation over the telephone. Tugwana discusses de Klerk's announcement and describes reaction to the announcement in South Africa. Tugwana says that apartheid laws are still in force. George's story includes footage of black South Africans and South African security forces; it also includes footage of Koos van der Merwe and Dr. Andries Treunicht, both of the Conservative Party, reacting to the news. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Aggrey Mbere talks about South Africa and his exile in the US
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of F.W. de Klerk (President of South Africa) speaking in government chambers. De Klerk announces the lifting of the ban on the African National Congress (ANC) and other black political parties. De Klerk announces that Nelson Mandela (jailed ANC leader) will be freed. Shot of Archbishop Desmond Tutu (black South African leader) clapping and cheering. Shots of black and white South Africans as they listen to and watch de Klerk's speech. Christy George reports that de Klerk's announcement signaled dramatic changes for South Africa. V: Shots of a white South African taking a newspaper from a vendor; of white officers in the South African Security Forces as they flip through a newspaper. Shots of black South Africans marching in a street. Footage of black South Africans singing and dancing as they celebrate the lifting of the ANC ban. Shots of black South African school boys running in a road; of black South Africans running and cheering in a street. Shot of black South Africans marching in the street. Shots of officers in the South African Security Forces; of officers with german shephard dogs on leashes. Shot of black men running away from officers in the Security Force. Shot of a black man unfurling a flag in front of a building. Shots of a group of black South Africans chanting and waving signs; of black South Africans running from officers in the Security Force. Audio of Gabu Tugwana (editor, The New Nation) saying that there was much excitement and emotional celebration in South Africa today. Tugwana says that black South Africans were excited to be able to raise their flag; that the flag had been illegal. George reports that she spoke to Tugwana by telephone today. George notes that Tugwana described scenes of jubilation in South Africa today. V: Shot of a sign for the New Nation newspaper, hanging in the window of the newspaper's offices. Shot of George taking notes as she speaks on the telephone. Shot of a sign with a photo of Mandela on it. Footage of Tutu addressing a crowd. Tutu says that "the walls of apartheid are falling." Audio of Tugwana speaking to George. Tugwana says that Africa will join democracy movements across the world. Tugwana says that governments will not change unless threatened. Shots of de Klerk entering governmental changes. Government officials stand as he enters. Shots of de Klerk addressing the government officials; of the seated government officials. Shots of white South Africans standing outside of a government building. George reports that conservative white South Africans say that they will fight against de Klerk's changes. V: Footage of Koos van der Merwe (Conservative Party) saying that white South Africans will fight to retain their right of self-determination. Van Der Merwe says that white South Africans will fight any domination of blacks over whites. Footage of Dr. Andries Treunicht (Conservative Party) speaking to the media. Treunicht says that de Klerk has taken a "revolutionary" position; that the revolution has overtaken the national party. Shot of George taking notes as she speaks on the telephone. Audio of Tugwana saying that de Klerk has taken a revolutionary position; that progressive critics see de Klerk's reforms as "half-hearted." Shots of two white South African women reading a newspaper; of black South Africans marching and dancing in the street. Footage of George on the telephone. George asks Tugwana how his life will change because of these reforms. Tugwana says that his life will not change a lot. Tugwana says that the Population Registration Act will still be enforced; that he will still be confined to the Soweto Township. Tugwana says that he will still be prosecuted if he tries to live outside of Soweto. Shots of black South Africans singing together at a march. Shot of a man holding a newspaper. The headline reads, "ANC Unbanned."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/02/1990