Meaning: Bram Fischer was a South African lawyer and anti-apartheid activist who made this statement during his trial in 1966. The quote reflects his decision to boycott the trial as a form of protest against the unjust apartheid system in South Africa. The significance of this statement lies in the courage and principles demonstrated by Fischer, as well as its broader implications for the struggle against apartheid.

Fischer's decision to deliberately absent himself from the court proceedings was a bold and defiant act. It was a clear refusal to participate in a legal system that was inherently unjust and discriminatory. By choosing not to engage with the court on its terms, Fischer sought to challenge the legitimacy of the apartheid regime and its legal machinery. His absence was a powerful statement of protest, aimed at exposing the fundamental flaws and injustices of the system.

In his statement, Fischer makes it clear that his absence is not a sign of disrespect towards the court. Instead, it is a principled stance against the oppressive regime that the court represents. He emphasizes that his decision is not driven by fear of the punishment that might be inflicted upon him. This assertion underscores Fischer's unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his willingness to endure the consequences of his actions in pursuit of justice and equality.

Fischer's role as a lawyer is also significant in understanding the context of his statement. As a legal professional, he was acutely aware of the contradictions and injustices within the legal system under apartheid. His decision to boycott the trial can be seen as a rejection of the complicity of the legal profession in upholding and enforcing apartheid laws. It was a powerful example of a legal practitioner using his position to challenge the system from within, and to advocate for a more just and equitable society.

The impact of Fischer's statement reverberated far beyond the confines of the courtroom. His act of defiance inspired others in the anti-apartheid movement and garnered international attention. It became a symbol of resistance and a rallying cry for those fighting against racial oppression and discrimination. Fischer's courage in standing up to the apartheid regime, even in the face of personal risk and sacrifice, earned him the respect and admiration of many who shared his commitment to justice and freedom.

In conclusion, Bram Fischer's statement reflects his unwavering commitment to the struggle against apartheid and his refusal to legitimize an unjust legal system. His deliberate absence from the trial was a bold act of protest that resonated both within South Africa and internationally. Fischer's courage and principles continue to inspire those who seek to challenge injustice and inequality, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the power of individual actions in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.