Harry Schwarz: A Beacon of Justice in South Africa's Dawn
Exploring the profound impact of a German-Jewish refugee who became a pivotal anti-apartheid leader and diplomat, shaping a new democratic South Africa.
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A Life of Principle
Architect of a New Nation
Harry Heinz Schwarz (1924โ2010) was a distinguished South African lawyer, statesman, and a relentless opposition leader against apartheid. His journey culminated in serving as the South African Ambassador to the United States during the nation's critical transition to majority rule. He is widely recognized as one of the "conceptual and moral fathers of the new South Africa," whose ideas and initiatives were instrumental in developing the framework for a negotiated democracy founded on freedom and justice.
Champion of the Oppressed
Rising from the profound challenges of childhood poverty as a German-Jewish refugee, Schwarz dedicated his life to advocating for social justice and the rule of law. He co-founded the Torch Commando, an ex-soldiers' movement protesting the disenfranchisement of coloured people. Nelson Mandela, a personal friend whom Schwarz visited in prison, affectionately described him as a "champion of the poor." Throughout his 43-year political career, marked by sharp parliamentary clashes with the apartheid government, Schwarz never lost an election, earning respect across the political spectrum.
Diplomat of Transition
Schwarz's appointment as South African Ambassador to the United States in 1990 was a powerful symbol of the government's commitment to ending apartheid. His diplomatic efforts were crucial in reshaping South Africa's international image as a burgeoning democratic nation. He played a significant role in renewing relations between the two countries, negotiating the lifting of US sanctions, securing substantial aid, and hosting President Mandela's historic state visit to the US.
Formative Years
Refugee Experience
Born Heinz Schwarz in Cologne, Germany, in 1924, Harry Schwarz arrived in South Africa in 1934 as a Jewish refugee with his mother and younger brother, fleeing Nazi persecution. His father, a Social Democratic Party activist, had already left for South Africa. The family faced significant financial hardship and discrimination, with Schwarz recalling, "I know what the word discrimination means, not because I've read it in a book, but because I've been the subject of it. And I know what it means to be hungry." These early experiences profoundly shaped his unwavering commitment to social justice.
Wartime Service
After graduating from school in 1943, Schwarz chose to join the South African Air Force during World War II, driven by a desire to combat Nazism. He served as a navigator in North Africa, Crete, and Italy, adopting the name "Harry" for practical reasons during his service. His dedication led to him being made an Honorary Colonel of the 15th Squadron in 1984, a testament to his distinguished military record.
Academic and Legal Foundations
Following the war, Schwarz attended the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) in Johannesburg, where he forged friendships with future anti-apartheid icons Nelson Mandela and Joe Slovo. He earned a Bachelor of Arts with distinctions in history and economic history, followed by an LLB. He was admitted as a solicitor in 1949, a barrister in London, and an advocate at the South African Bar in 1953, laying the groundwork for a formidable legal and political career.
The Rivonia Trial
Defense Counsel
In 1963, when Nelson Mandela and other political opponents faced charges in the landmark Rivonia Trial, Harry Schwarz served as one of the defense barristers. He specifically defended his close friend, Jimmy Kantor, who was Accused No. 8. Kantor, initially Mandela's lawyer, was himself arrested and charged. Schwarz's vigorous defense, which included challenging the prosecutor's "McCarthyism" tactics, ultimately led to Kantor's acquittal, alongside Rusty Bernstein. Notably, Schwarz refused payment for his services.
Friendship Beyond Bars
Despite being initially barred from visiting Nelson Mandela on Robben Island after the trial, Schwarz was granted access after Mandela's transfer to Victor Verster Prison in 1988. Following a visit in November 1989, Schwarz publicly called for Mandela's "immediate and unconditional" release, emphasizing that it was "in the interest of all South Africans - black and white - that this should happen as soon as possible." This act underscored his enduring commitment to justice and his personal bond with Mandela.
Political Ascent
Local Government Impact
Schwarz's political career began in 1951 with his election to the Johannesburg City Council for Booysens, a seat considered unwinnable against the National Party. Despite being the youngest council member, he quickly became chairman of the influential management committee. His focus was on challenging forced evictions of black and coloured people and advocating for improved housing and education, demonstrating his early commitment to social equity.
Provincial Leadership
In 1958, Schwarz was elected to the Transvaal Provincial Council for the Hospital constituency, later renamed Hillbrow. By 1963, he had risen to become the Leader of the Opposition in the Transvaal Provincial Council, a position he held until 1974. During this period, he continued his legal practice and also served as Chief Executive of Merchant Bank from 1969 to 1974, showcasing his diverse capabilities.
The Act of Dedication
In 1973, Schwarz articulated his vision for a post-apartheid South Africa through the "Act of Dedication." This document, which he presented to the provincial council, called for the Transvaal and the entire nation to embrace the principles of a non-discriminatory society. Although the United Party Transvaal caucus unanimously adopted it, the National Party blocked its debate in the council and parliament. Nevertheless, Schwarz successfully pushed for its adoption at the 1973 National United Party Congress, marking a significant ideological victory.
The Mahlabatini Declaration
A Blueprint for Peace
On January 4, 1974, Harry Schwarz engaged in crucial discussions with Mangosuthu Buthelezi, then Chief Executive Councillor of the KwaZulu homeland. These discussions culminated in the "Mahlabatini Declaration of Faith," a five-point plan designed to establish racial peace in South Africa. The declaration advocated for comprehensive negotiations involving all population groups, the formulation of constitutional proposals emphasizing equal opportunity, and the inclusion of a Bill of Rights to safeguard these fundamental rights. It also underscored the necessity of achieving political change through non-violent means and proposed a federal framework for these transformations.
Historic Significance
The Mahlabatini Declaration was groundbreaking as the first such agreement between acknowledged black and white leaders in South Africa to affirm these principles. It emerged at a time when neither the National Party nor the African National Congress were actively pursuing peaceful dialogue. The declaration garnered widespread media attention, both domestically and internationally, and was lauded by the English-speaking press as a significant advancement in South African race relations. It also received endorsements from several chief ministers of black homelands, including Cedric Phatudi (Lebowa), Lucas Mangope (Bophuthatswana), and Hudson Nisanwisi (Gazankulu), as well as praise from liberal figures like Alan Paton.
Internal Party Strife
Despite its external acclaim, the declaration provoked a strong negative reaction from the United Party's "Old Guard," including its leader, Sir De Villiers Graaff. This internal opposition ultimately led to Schwarz and other liberal members being expelled from the United Party the following year. This event highlighted the deep ideological divisions within the white opposition and paved the way for a significant realignment of political forces in South Africa.
Parliamentary Influence
Realigning Opposition
After his expulsion from the United Party in 1975, following his defiant "I am my brother's keeper" speech in Parliament, Harry Schwarz swiftly founded the Reform Party. Its charter mirrored the principles of the Mahlabatini Declaration, advocating for universal franchise and equality. Later that year, the Reform Party merged with the Progressive Party to form the Progressive Reform Party, which eventually became the Progressive Federal Party (PFP) in 1977. The PFP then emerged as the official opposition, fundamentally reshaping South African opposition politics.
Shadow Minister & Maverick
As a co-founder of the PFP, Schwarz became its finance spokesman (1975โ1991), defense spokesman (1975โ1984), and Chairman of the Federal Executive (1975โ1979). He was renowned as the PFP's "star performer" in parliament, known for his incisive critiques of the National Party's racial and economic policies. His effectiveness as Shadow Finance Minister was such that National Party Finance Ministers reportedly "lived in terror of him." Schwarz also played a pivotal role in exposing the Muldergate Scandal of 1979, which led to the resignation of Prime Minister B. J. Vorster. Despite multiple behind-the-scenes offers for a Cabinet position from the National Party, he consistently refused due to his unwavering opposition to apartheid.
Defending Press Freedom
Schwarz was a staunch advocate for press freedom, particularly in the face of the National Party's restrictive legislation. In 1979, he urged the Prime Minister to reconsider a bill that threatened press liberties. When the National Key Points Act of 1980 criminalized unauthorized reporting on strategic targets, Schwarz condemned it, asserting that "press freedom was a 'precious treasure' and a free and courageous press was a major weapon in South Africa's defence against external threats." He argued that restricting the press marked a "turning point" in South African politics.
Pioneering a Bill of Rights
In August 1983, during the Constitutional Reform Debate, Harry Schwarz made history by submitting the first motion ever brought before Parliament calling for a "Bill of Rights" to be incorporated into South Africa's new constitution. This proposed Bill aimed to guarantee freedom from discrimination based on race, color, sex, or creed, as well as freedoms of conscience, religion, thought, expression (including press freedom), association, assembly, movement, and the right to livelihood. It also sought to ensure equality before the law and protection of life, liberty, security, and property. Although rejected by other parties at the time, these principles were ultimately enshrined in the 1996 constitution of the new South Africa, validating Schwarz's foresight.
Diplomatic Service
Envoy to the United States
In 1991, Harry Schwarz made history as the first serving politician from the parliamentary opposition and the first Jewish ambassador to be appointed to a senior ambassadorial post in South African history. He became the South African Ambassador to the United States, accepting the role due to the government's commitment to the fundamental reforms he had long championed. He famously stated, "I've made it clear that I want to be ambassador for 37 million people," signaling his dedication to representing all South Africans, not just the white minority.
Caribbean Accreditation
Beyond his role in Washington, Schwarz was also accredited as the first South African Ambassador to Barbados in 1993, when diplomatic relations were established. Following South Africa's rejoining of the Commonwealth, he became the first South African High Commissioner to Barbados from June 1, 1994, further expanding his diplomatic reach and symbolizing South Africa's re-engagement with the global community.
Renewing International Ties
Schwarz is widely credited with playing a leading role in the renewal of relations between South Africa and the United States. During his tenure, he successfully negotiated the lifting of US sanctions against South Africa, secured a significant $600 million aid package from President Bill Clinton, and oversaw South Africa's signing of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1991. A highlight of his ambassadorship was hosting President Nelson Mandela's state visit to the US in October 1994, a powerful moment symbolizing the new South Africa's emergence on the world stage.
Jewish Community Leadership
Combating Antisemitism
From the mid-1970s, Harry Schwarz emerged as a prominent leader within the South African Jewish community. He consistently led opposition against antisemitic remarks and movements by public figures, often engaging in heated parliamentary clashes. He famously declared, "the days of the Jews walking into the gas chambers are over," while also urging the community to avoid impulsive reactions. He utilized his access to government ministers, police, and military establishments to investigate incidents of antisemitism, demonstrating proactive leadership.
Bridge Builder
Schwarz firmly believed that Judaism was fundamentally opposed to segregation, stating, "If we rationalise or condone discrimination against one group, we have compromised our principles and we are then not true to our beliefs or our history." He emphasized the Jewish community's need for a democratic society that also protected their right to practice their religion and express their love for Israel. His lifelong friendship with Nelson Mandela was instrumental in ensuring that Jews in South Africa felt secure and integrated following the unbanning of the African National Congress and Mandela's election as president.
Enduring Commitment
Schwarz played an increasingly vital role on the Jewish Board of Deputies from the 1970s, serving as chairman of its committee on international relations and often acting as a spokesman for the board to Jewish agencies abroad. In 2005, he was honored as an honorary vice-president of the board, remaining actively involved until his passing. He also served as president of the South Africa-Israel Chamber of Commerce from 1999 to 2010, further cementing his legacy as a dedicated community leader.
Awards & Legacy
Distinguished Honors
Harry Schwarz received numerous accolades throughout his life, recognizing his profound contributions to law, politics, and human rights. These include the Society of Advocates prize (1948), the Transvaal Law Society Prize (1949), and being named 'Newsmaker of the Year' by the Southern African Society of Journalists (1974). He was awarded the Order for Meritorious Service (Gold) in 1988 and received a Human Rights Award in 1991 for his opposition to apartheid and fight for social justice. In 1994, the Anti-Defamation League honored him as 'Moral Statesman of the Year'.
Academic Recognition
His intellectual and moral leadership was also recognized by academic institutions. He received honorary doctorates from the University of Judaism (now the American Jewish University) in 1995 and the University of Stellenbosch in 2005. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem also made him an honorary fellow in 2005, acknowledging his significant impact and scholarly contributions to society.
Lasting Tributes
Schwarz's legacy is commemorated in various ways. The hall at Sir John Adamson Secondary School, where he served as the first chairperson of the governing body, was named in his honor. Upon his passing in 2010, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, including from Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille and President Jacob Zuma, who acknowledged his "signal contribution to the development of our democracy" and his "principled and steadfast resistance to racial nationalism." His final public speech in 2009 reiterated his core belief: "freedom is incomplete if it is exercised in poverty."
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