What Does Mandela Mean by ‘the Oppressor Must Be Liberated Just as Surely as the Oppressed’?
Long Walk to Freedom is a notable literary work by Nelson Mandela. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Long Walk to Freedom.
Answer
What does Mandela mean by ‘the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed’?
When Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) says, “The oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed,” he means that freedom is not just about ending the suffering of the oppressed but also about freeing the oppressor from the hatred and injustice they create.
Oppressor and Oppressed: In an unjust system like apartheid, the oppressed suffer physically and mentally from discrimination, poverty, and violence. However, the oppressors also suffer in a different way. Their actions, driven by fear and prejudice, trap them in a cycle of cruelty, hatred, and division. This prevents them from living with peace, dignity, and equality.
Liberation for Both: Mandela believed that both groups needed liberation. For the oppressed, it meant gaining their rights and freedom. For the oppressors, it meant freeing their minds from hatred and learning to live in harmony with others. Mandela’s vision was based on forgiveness and unity. He believed in the fundamental goodness of humanity, stating,
People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love.
He understood that real freedom could only come when all people—both Black and White—worked together to build a fair and equal society.
Mandela’s Wisdom and Compassion: Mandela’s words also reflect his wisdom and compassion. Instead of seeking revenge, he encouraged reconciliation and understanding.
In essence, by freeing both the oppressor and the oppressed, Mandela aimed to create a society where everyone could live peacefully, without fear or hatred. Everyone could share equal opportunities for a better future.