Kid gloves a must for human dignity issues

It is both sad and fascinating to follow the debate on something so simple, yet personal, like a school’s hair policy echoing around the world. Societies are faced with cross-cultural adaptation in a fast-changing world. I have observed it first-hand in my career in many countries.

Diversity and change management are complex – and not simply right or wrong, or black and white, but full of grey areas.

Rules must be sensitive, taking diversity into account, but more important are the manner and spirit in which they are implemented.

The right to basic human dignity is not negotiable, especially when dealing with children.

In the debate in the media, racial prejudice unfortunately surfaces from all sides – as could be expected. But one also observes a level of maturity among many participants from all sides, minimising the issue of race in the argument.

There are schools where this

issue did not surface or had been dealt with successfully. The key remains attitude: sensitivity and respect for diversity, especially given our history. These are essential because human dignity is non-negotiable.

I love the diversity of the “Rainbow Nation”, so vividly reflected in our Sevens Springbok team. It must be celebrated, not compromised. Dawie Jacobs, Pretoria