Early Life and Education
Steve Biko was born on December 18, 1946, in King William’s Town, South Africa. Growing up in a time of pervasive racial segregation and discrimination, Biko’s early experiences shaped his views and his future activism. Despite the harsh realities of apartheid, Biko was determined to pursue his education and make a difference.
Political Activism and Expulsion from High School
Biko’s journey into political activism began in high school, where he actively voiced his opposition to apartheid policies. His outspoken nature and involvement in political activities led to his expulsion from high school. However, this setback did not deter him. He enrolled at St. Francis College, a liberal boarding school in Natal, from which he graduated in 1966.
University of Natal Medical School and Early Activism
After completing his education at St. Francis College, Biko entered the University of Natal Medical School. It was here that he became involved with the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS), a multiracial organization that advocated for the rights of Black South Africans. Despite NUSAS’s efforts, Biko felt that the organization did not adequately address the fundamental issues faced by Black South Africans. He believed that the society needed to be restructured to reflect the culture and values of the Black majority.
Founding of the South African Students’ Organization (SASO)
In 1968, Biko co-founded the South African Students’ Organization (SASO), an all-Black student organization. The following year, he became its first president. SASO was based on the philosophy of Black consciousness, which encouraged Black South Africans to recognize their inherent dignity and self-worth. This movement aimed to empower Black individuals by fostering a sense of pride and identity.
Spread of the Black Consciousness Movement
Throughout the 1970s, the Black Consciousness Movement, which originated on university campuses, spread to urban Black communities across South Africa. Biko’s message resonated with many who were oppressed under the apartheid regime. In 1972, Biko helped found the Black People’s Convention, an umbrella organization for various Black consciousness groups, further solidifying his role as a leader in the movement.
Official Censure and Covert Operations
In 1973, Biko and other members of SASO faced official censure. They were banned, which restricted their associations, movements, and public statements. Despite these limitations, Biko continued his activism covertly. In 1975, he established the Zimele Trust Fund to support political prisoners and their families, demonstrating his commitment to the cause even under repressive conditions.
Arrests and Death
Biko was arrested four times between 1975 and 1977 and was held without trial for extended periods. His final arrest occurred on August 18, 1977, when he and a fellow activist were seized at a roadblock and jailed in Port Elizabeth. On September 11, 1977, Biko was found naked and shackled outside a hospital in Pretoria, approximately 740 miles away. He died the following day from a massive brain hemorrhage, a result of severe beatings while in police custody.
Aftermath and Legacy
Initially, police denied any maltreatment of Biko. However, it was later determined that he had been severely beaten while in custody. Despite this, the officers involved were cleared of wrongdoing at the time. In 1997, five former police officers confessed to killing Biko and applied for amnesty from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a body established to review atrocities committed during the apartheid years. Their application for amnesty was denied in 1999.
Biko’s death made him an international martyr for South African Black nationalism. His legacy lives on through the continued fight for justice and equality in South Africa and beyond. The story of his friendship with South African journalist Donald Woods is depicted in Woods’s book “Biko” (1977; 3rd rev. ed., 1991) and the film “Cry Freedom” (1987), which helped to bring international attention to Biko’s life and the struggle against apartheid.
Personal Life
Steve Biko was married to Ntsiki Mashalaba, with whom he had children. Despite his intense involvement in political activism, Biko was known to be a dedicated family man. His personal sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the fight against apartheid remain a powerful testament to his character and his enduring impact on South Africa’s history.
Steve Biko’s life was tragically cut short, but his influence endures. He is remembered as a fearless leader who fought for the rights and dignity of Black South Africans. His philosophy of Black consciousness continues to inspire movements for social justice and equality around the world.
