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Childhood in apartheidera South Africa from "summary" of Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
During my childhood in apartheidera South Africa, being born to a black mother and a white father made me a living testament to the immorality of the apartheid laws. My existence was a crime, which is how I got the nickname "crime" from my family. Apartheid was a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that sought to divide and conquer the people of South Africa based on the color of their skin. Growing up under apartheid meant that I had to navigate a world where my very existence was considered illegal. I wasn't allowed to walk down the street with my father or be seen in public with him, as it would attract unwanted attention and could potentially land him in jail. My mother, on the other hand, had to pretend to be my nanny in order to protect me from the harsh realities of the apartheid regime. The laws of apartheid dictated every aspect of our lives, from where we could live to which schools we could attend. The government actively enforced these laws, using violence and intimidation to maintain control over the black population. Despite the injustices we faced, my mother instilled in me a sense of resilience and hope that helped me navigate the challenges of growing up in such a hostile environment. One of the most poignant moments of my childhood was when my mother was arrested for being in a white area without a permit. I was left alone and scared, not knowing when or if she would return. It was during this time that I learned the true power of love and sacrifice, as my mother risked everything to provide a better future for me. Despite the hardships and struggles of my childhood, there were moments of joy and laughter that helped me survive. My mother's unwavering love and support, coupled with my own determination and wit, allowed me to defy the odds and rise above the constraints of apartheid. Reflecting on my childhood in apartheidera South Africa, I am reminded of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Despite the oppressive laws and systemic racism that sought to divide us, I was able to find moments of joy and connection that transcended the barriers of apartheid. My experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am grateful for the lessons I learned during those formative years.
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