Steve Biko, legendary anti-apartheid activist and leader of the Black Consciousness movement, died in detention at just 30 years old on 12 September 1977, 40 years ago.

Pan Macmillan South Africa is publishing three books this year to honour his life and work.

The following quotations are taken from No Fears Expressed, by Millard Arnold.

No Fears Expressed is a compilation of quotes from Steve Biko, drawn from his written and spoken words and covering a wide range of topics reflecting the philosophy of Black Consciousness as well as the ever-present challenges that confront South Africans.

It is Biko’s legacy that in South Africa the phrase ‘Black Consciousness’ will always and inextricably be linked to him because it was his genius that constructed such a compellingly simple message. ‘Black Consciousness,’ he wrote, ‘takes cognisance of the deliberateness of God’s plan in creating black people black. It seeks to infuse the black community with a newfound pride in themselves, their efforts, their value system, their culture, their religion and their outlook on life.’

We are left now with nothing but Biko’s words; some spoken, some recorded but mostly those that are transcribed. Words that after years of maturation remain as emotive and insightful as the day they were first written. It is these words, these thoughts, these ideas, this consciousness that he bequeathed us, that will never be forgotten. Biko’s words are his most profound and lasting endowment; they touch you where your soul and truth begin.

For more about the book, click on the link above!

• See also: ‘Black is Beautiful challenges the belief which makes someone negate himself’ – Read an excerpt from The Testimony of Steve Biko

Categories Non-fiction South Africa

Tags Black Consciousness Millard Arnold New books New releases No Fears Expressed Pan Macmillan SA Steve Biko