Protests: Speak for yourself

Protest has served a historical role on our campus and shaped how people have seen our universities.

It is up to individuals and student groups alike to make clear their stance on violence and the destruction of property. Representatives of student bodies, political groups, sports teams and other student groups should show what a democracy looks like and speak out.

Regardless of whether you participated in a peaceful protest or stayed home, the title of violent protester has been thrust upon you by the actions of a few. It is up to you to loudly reject it or silently accept it.

And for those students who do believe there is legitimacy in violence and the destruction of property, you should also make your voices clear and show what portion of the student body you truly represent.

We should all denounce the destruction of both public and private property and the harm against people with whom you disagree. Students should rise above violence and looting at protests. — Naveen Sukdeo, Durban