Aghast at school’s original stance on cornrows
I WAS deeply troubled by the news relating to a black pupil at King’s High School being asked to remove his cornrows to adhere to uniform policy.
The uniform policy point in question being: ‘‘Hair must be their natural colour with nonextreme cuts. If hair falls below the collar it must be tied back.’’
Society’s idea of what is ‘‘extreme’’ is rooted within a white norm.
Black hairstyles such as cornrows have extensive cultural histories and are not a ‘‘new trend’’. Cornrows are an important expression of race, ancestry and identity. In asking this pupil to remove his braids to conform with school policy, King’s devalued this student’s cultural identity.
Mr McIvor’s response ignored the issue of implicit bias against students of colour. This discrimination, inextricably intertwined with racism, sends the message that this pupil’s culture is not acceptable, and he must conform to white standards in order to receive an education at King’s High School.
I had hoped for better from a school that strives for excellence in all areas. Elena Piere
Waitati
[King’s has since confirmed it will allow cornrows to be worn for cultural reasons. — Ed.]
Clutha council
I MUST congratulate Russell Lund (Letters, 16.2.21) for refreshing our memories on the arrogance of the Clutha District Council in the matter of the swimming pool.
It brings us to the same attitude regarding other projects, namely the sewage debacle and the town hall replacement.
This puts absolute fear into one at the lack of information, cost analysis and transparency around the cost of a new build for the community hub.
My biggest fear, given the track record of projects under the present council’s rule, is a massive cost overrun being lumped on to our rates with no accountability at all for a project that does not have universal support by ratepayers.
Beth Linklater
Balclutha .....................................
BIBLE READING: Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive. — Matthew 21:22.