If you have it, flaunt it - DAC
2010-05-09 18:37
Johannesburg - The department of arts and culture (DAC) on Sunday urged South Africans to flaunt their national pride during the World Cup by flying the country's flag high in their homes, offices and cars.
"National symbols are often the means by which international visitors first and foremost identify with a country, be it the national flag or national anthem, perhaps even the national animal," the department said in a statement.
"And that is why the department of arts and culture is encouraging all South Africans to proudly display the national flag at their offices, homes on their cars, anywhere that is suitable for the symbol to be placed."
The "Fly the Flag for Football" campaign has been adopted by the department to educate international visitors about South African symbols and the create an atmosphere of national pride amongst South Africans during the sporting event.
"All of our symbols have a special meaning to the people of the South Africa and are a visible representation of our African heritage, and the diverse nature of our communities," said Paul Mashatile, deputy minister of the department and newly re-appointed Gauteng ANC chairperson.
"It is crucial for the future of a united South Africa, that every citizen respects these symbols and learn the protocol around them as this will give us a common identity," he said.
The campaign would not only be stirring up feelings of patriotism amongst South Africans, but also educate citizens on correct protocol when flying the flag or singing the national anthem, the department said.
It said a person following correct flag etiquette should never allow the flag to touch the ground or use it as a table cloth.
"When the national anthem is played, people should always stand and remove their hats or caps as a sign of respect."
"The aim of a united, multiracial South Africa can only be realised if the entire nation identify with the symbols of the land and believe in what they stand for," said the department.
"Only through education can we make this happen."
- SAPA
