1961 – South Africa Expelled from the Commonwealth

On June 8, 1961, South Africa withdrew from the Commonwealth of Nations after being pressured over its apartheid policies. Member countries had refused to accept South Africa’s continuation under white minority rule following the 1960 Sharpeville massacre, where 69 Black South Africans were killed during a peaceful protest. South Africa’s expulsion (technically a withdrawal under pressure) was a pivotal moment in isolating the apartheid regime on the world stage. It symbolized the growing strength of international Black solidarity and the role of diplomatic pressure in confronting systemic racism. While South Africa would not return to the Commonwealth until 1994, this date highlights the intersection of global governance and racial justice advocacy. June 8 marks a turning point when Black nations and allies used collective action to challenge institutionalized white supremacy at the state level.