Born to Struggle: A Biography of Fatima MeerSouth African, Indian Muslim, Anti-Apartheid, Human Rights Activist

Auteur
Born in 1948, Arjumand Wajid graduated in Philosophy and Geography from the University of the Punjab, Pakistan, in 1967. In 1968, she arrived in Britain as a young bride. Later, she completed her BA (Hons.) from the University of East London in 1983, followed by a diploma in Journalism in 1984 from the University of Westminster. Arjumand joined the Essex Chronicle as a reporter in 1984 and left as a specialist writer in 1989. During this period, she spent a year on strike against anti-union laws and the de-recognition of the Journalists' Union by the company. In 1990, she joined the Urdu Service of the BBC World Service as a radio production assistant. Over the years, she progressed to become a producer/presenter and retired after twenty years as a radio broadcaster. Notably, she has also contributed to journalism by training professionals in more than twenty-five countries as a freelance trainer between 2000 and 2016.

Texte du rabat

Fatima Meer (1928-2010), a key figure in South Africa's Liberation Movement, remains less recognized globally despite her impactful role. A distinguished academic, prolific writer, and political activist, she tirelessly advocated for social justice and human rights. Close friend to Nelson Mandela, she authored his biography. Despite adversity, including apartheid bans and imprisonment, her independent spirit left a profound mark on South Africa's history. Her story is vital for future generations.

Résumé
Fatima Meer (19282010) was not widely recognized outside her country; however, she needed no introduction in South Africa. She stood as one of the most prominent leaders in the Liberation Movement of Indian origin. A distinguished academic, a prolific writer, and a passionate political activist, she was, above all, a tireless advocate for social justice and human rights. Additionally, she was a close friend and confidante of Nelson Mandela and authored his biography, Higher Than Hope: The Authorized Biography of Nelson Mandela (Hamish Hamilton, 1990). Recipient of several international awards, Fatima was nominated in 2004 as one of the fifty greatest South Africans. In 1999, she was listed among the top '100 Women Who Shook South Africa.' Despite being banned three times by the apartheid government, shot at, and imprisoned, she remained a fearless anti-apartheid fighter until freedom was won. Fiercely independent, she was a compelling character of Muslim and Indian heritage who left a profound impact on the history of South Africa's Liberation Movement. Her life story and contributions should be preserved for future generations.

Contenu

• List of Appendices

• Acknowledgements

• Preface

• Introduction

• 1: The Meers Arrive in South Africa

• 2: The Picture on the Wall

• 3: A Princess is Born

• 4: Early Childhood

• 5: Coloured School for a Coloured Child

• 6: Political Awakening

• 7: University Life and Falling in Love

• 8: Sherbet for Engagement

• 9: Shadi Khana Abadi

• 10: Thats When it All Began

• 11: A Glorious Banning Order

• 12: Goodbye, Black Pimpernel

• 13: A New Lover: The Black Consciousness Movement

• 14: 113 Days of Incarceration

• 15: The Great Escapes

• 16: A Dream Turned Nightmare

• 17: Higher Than Hope

• 18: Anatomy of a Friendship: Winnie Mandela

• 19: A Mediator for the Mandelas: Mission Unaccomplished

• 20: Annus Horribilis

• 21: The Unbearable Pain of Losing a Son

• 22: He Loved Me, He Loved Me Not-Life Without Ismail

• 23: Freedom is Won: The Struggle Goes On

• 24: Mandela Doesnt Ring Anymore

• 25: Painting Lilies: A Glimpse of Fatimas Twilight Years

• Appendices

• Index