1948 – "Apartheid Legalized by South African Parliament"

On May 12, 1948, the National Party of South Africa formally enacted apartheid after winning the general election. This began the legal codification of racial segregation, with laws stripping Black South Africans of their rights, property, and freedom of movement. The system institutionalized white supremacy and lasted until 1994. May 12 stands as a reminder of the day South Africa took a dark step toward racial tyranny that would last for nearly half a century. Under apartheid, non-white citizens were forced into “homelands,” subjected to pass laws, and denied access to education and political power. The international anti-apartheid movement—powered by global protests, boycotts, and figures like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu—was born in response. This date marks a global call to remember the dangers of systemic racism and the necessity of international solidarity.