Clive Cupido: Bellville Community Renames Local Park

The Bellville community’s initiative to rename a local park in honor of Clive Cupido serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of apartheid on families in South Africa. Clive’s tragic story, marked by his untimely death at the hands of security police when he was just a teenager, resonates deeply within a community that continues to grapple with the legacy of loss and trauma. The proposed Clive Cupido Memorial Park will not only commemorate his life but also act as a gathering point for healing and recollection for those who suffered during the oppressive regime. This effort underscores a critical need for communities to openly share their narratives, allowing the painful stories of the past to inspire dialogue and foster understanding among present and future generations.

Community members, including Clive’s sister, Michelle Hansby, view the park renaming as a vital step towards closure and remembrance. By immortalizing Clive’s name in a public space, they create an opportunity for education and awareness, particularly among the youth. Michelle’s vision for the young people of Bellville echoes a call to action—encouraging them to pursue their dreams with the vigor and determination that Clive exhibited. Her heartfelt reflections on her brother’s aspirations reveal the potential that was lost but also pave the way for a legacy that emphasizes resilience and purpose. The community’s collective involvement in this initiative speaks volumes about the healing power of stories and the importance of remembering those who were silenced during a tumultuous period in South African history.

The project not only seeks to honor Clive Cupido but also emphasizes the necessity of preserving history through community participation. Local historians and activists are working to ensure that the stories of individuals affected by apartheid are recognized and shared. Through exhibitions and petitions facilitated by the Bellville South Library, the initiative opens a dialogue about the importance of remembering the past while looking forward to a hopeful future. By engaging the community in this memorialization process, the park will serve as a sanctuary for reflection and learning, fostering a sense of belonging and shared history that champions the fight for justice and recognition in the face of adversity.

Summary

The Bellville community in Cape Town is working to rename a local park in honor of Clive Cupido, a young man killed by security police 40 years ago during apartheid, as part of a campaign to acknowledge and commemorate the suffering caused by the regime. Clive’s family, particularly his sister Michelle Hansby, believes this initiative will not only honor his memory but also serve as a reminder of the struggles faced by many families during that painful era. With support from the Bellville Historical Society and the Bellville South Library, the project includes an exhibition on Clive’s life and a petition to gather community support for the name change. This effort aims to ensure that Clive’s story and those of others like him are remembered, and to inspire younger generations to strive for a fulfilling life despite past traumas. The community is invited to participate by signing the petition, which will remain open until the end of next week at the library.