Steve Biko's Methods of Resistance

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Steve Biko's Methods of Resistance

Steve created the South African Student Organization (SASO) in 1968.

The goal of SASO was to help non-white students move from their low

position in society, to not only be seen in the organization, but by

joining together to truly participate in change. SASO believed in

better education for black youth and better job opportunities for

black workers. Although the authorities noticed the activities of the

organization, because it didn’t advocate violence, it wasn’t

immediately banned. The SASO movement gained momentum as it moved

through out South Africa’s schools and Universities.

In the early 1970’s Biko was one of the most popular leaders in

another black equality movement. The Black Consciousness movement was

focused toward socially bringing whites and blacks together in a

peaceful way. The goal of Black Consciousness was to make black people

aware of their worth as human beings.

Steve Biko - Significance to the Resistance Movement

There are several reasons why Steve Biko became a great civil rights

hero and was famous for his significance to the resistance movement in

South Africa. He was a confident public speaker attracting the young

people of South Africa who so desperately needed a leader. His

intelligence along with his natural leadership skills made him well

known and respected by both blacks and whites. Although only in his

twenties, Biko had met with U.S. senators and embassy officials. Steve

Biko was likable; yet bold to express his beliefs, which challenged

white supremacist leaders in his native land.

Biko's beliefs were more radical that ANC’s thinking. He believed that

blacks could not rely on help or assistance from whites, and should

therefore withdraw from any partnerships with white groups.

This resulted in antagonism between the two groups, with reports of

ANC supporters beating and torturing black consciousness activists.

Biko said that in the Black Consciousness movement it was crucial to

reverse the centuries of their hateful condition "that have given so

many blacks as well as so many whites a negative view of blackness.

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