Racism must be fought
THE LEAD article “Parow shopper racially abused”, has reference (Cape Argus, April 5).
Although the constitution protects the rights of all South Africans – irrespective of race, religious beliefs, class and gender – there are factors like power and privilege that perpetuate social ills such as racism.
The alleged racial incident at the Family Pick n Pay endorses this narrative and also strengthens the perception that some whites have – that “whiteness” is a source of “power and privilege”. Discrimination, and other forms of bias and injustice, is a reality in South Africa even though apartheid has been dismantled.
While Sindiswa Xundu needs to be commended for handling the situation in a professional manner, more needs to be done to address the wider social problem of racism and its causes. Despite the fact that, in the new South Africa, we may no longer have separate facilities or services marked “Whites Only”, but unfortunately the scourge of racism is haunting every sector of society.
No South African has to put up with racial statements, hate speech or harassment. It is not part of life and should not be tolerated. People should not be afraid to take action against those who harass them in whatever way – be it racial abuse, sexual harassment, etc.
If we do not report these crimen injuria actions to the correct authorities, there is a danger that the incidents may intensify and perpetrators will not be brought to book. Racism needs to be resourcefully confronted with an increased commitment from all South Africans. MOHAMED SAEED Pietermaritzburg