The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) recently released a documentary called “Justice Before Healing”. The documentary delves into the heart of the social injustices that are a legacy of colonialism and apartheid. The film explores and reveals the seldom spoken truth of the historic trauma that still haunts communities. The production of the film seeks to incite essential conversations that have been forgotten 30 years into South Africa’s democracy.

Felicity Harrison, the Head of the Sustained Dialogue Programme at the IJR, emphasised the importance of amplifying the voices of people in communities through this film and shedding light on the lived realities of what it’s like to live in South Africa.

“The documentary captures lived realities of a majority of South Africans and the trauma that they still carry. The voices of the people in the documentary remind us that our democracy cannot be fulfilled until we commit to the work of healing the wounds of our past,” said Harrison.

Inspired by these stories of individuals and communities grappling with social justice and the aftermath of apartheid, “Justice Before Healing” aims to bridge the gap between past injustices and present-day healing. Central to the film are themes of justice, institutional racism, reconciliation, and reparations. These themes are intricately woven into the narrative, showcasing the power of dialogue and the critical work needed for society and communities to heal from past injustices.

The film highlights the persistent class and racial divide left by apartheid, which remains very present and alive in communities across South Africa three decades since the attainment of democracy. The spatial and social restrictions imposed by the apartheid government still influence contemporary society, affecting where people live, work, and interact. Although the journey of reconciliation has been explored in various South African communities, the step of mentally decolonizing individuals and dismantling internalized oppression has yet to occur, as evidenced by the everyday interactions and lives of South Africans.

The production of “Justice Before Healing” was an intricate and collaborative endeavour, reflecting the essence of the Sustained Dialogues programmes’ mission to foster meaningful conversations and solutions around social justice issues. The process involved extensive research, community engagement, and a commitment to authentic storytelling. At the film’s screening at the IJR offices on June 26, it was well received, sparking vital conversations about using our voices for change and sharing our lived experiences. The screening highlighted that as more conversations emerge around an issue, more solutions will arise. Furthermore, emphasizes the need to involve communities in the work of reconciliation and healing in South Africa.

By sharing these powerful stories, the aim is to create a platform where marginalized voices can be heard and validated. The documentary is a catalyst for grassroots movements, empowering people to advocate for their rights and demand systemic change.

“Justice Before Healing” is more than a documentary; it is a call to action. Acknowledgment, accountability, and reparations are the next steps we need to take as a society to fully decolonize ourselves and the spaces we occupy. Through this film, the Sustained Dialogues programmes aim to create a platform for change, encouraging communities to confront and address the deep-seated issues left by apartheid.

By Nande Mbekela, Intern Communications