We must never tolerate prejudice

TWENTY years and two days ago the Constitutional Court reminded us in Hoffman v South African Airways( 2000) SACC 17 ( 28.9.2000) that: “[ 29] prejudice can never justify unfair discrimination.

“This country has recently emerged from institutionalised prejudice. Our law reports are replete with cases in which prejudice was taken into consideration in denying the rights we now take for granted.

“[ 30] Our constitutional democracy has ushered in a new era of respect for human dignity for all human beings. In this era, prejudice and stereotyping have no place.

“If we are to achieve the goal of equality that we have fashioned in our Constitution, we must never tolerate prejudice, directly or indirectly. SAA, as a state organ with a constitutional duty to uphold the Constitution, may not avoid its constitutional duty by bowing to prejudice and stereotyping.”

How far has South Africa come since September 28, 2000?

SABER AHMED JAZBHAY | Durban