Robben Island

Visiting Robben Island was one of the most substantial days for me on my trip to Cape Town, South Africa for a variety of reasons. First, I learned that destructive behaviors have been repeated through out history and are continuing to be repeated today. This pattern of white men being in charge and treating people of color like they are less than human. Establishing a prison or a place of prosecution as a place where they can beat and torture others because they are in a position of power. I used to go on tours of places where really terrible things like this have happened and thought, “thank goodness this is over.” Thankfully one of the leaders from Educo Africa reminded me, “Hayley, this isn’t just something bad that once happened and is now over. This is still happening all over the world.” I honestly had never really thought about that and it struck me deep. This experience is a reminder that I have to be aware of what my race carries for many people of color that may seek my assistance in the future as a social worker. It makes sense that they may be closed off, careful, or untrusting. They have a huge history that justifies those feelings.

Another significant moment of the tour was our tour guide. He was a former prisoner at Robben Island and now worked there as a tour guide. This struck me as amazing and heartbreaking all at the same time. While it was beneficial to have him so we can hear an authentic past prisoners experience, it was as if he was still in prison having to work there because he explained that there aren’t a lot of jobs to come by in South Africa. He explained that it can be difficult to work there sometimes but, he is glad he can share his experience with those visiting. On my way out, I told him I was grateful and appreciated hearing from him and he said, “You need to tell others about your experience so they come and can understand this place.” I agree with him. Those visiting Cape Town need to go to Robben Island so they can broaden their horizon on South Africans historical trauma.