K-word video strongly condemned by Cape Forum

Cape Forum expresses its deep disappointment and dismay over the video currently circulating on social media showing a young (coloured) girl making a racist remark towards (black) fellow learners. “We strongly condemn this,” says Heindrich Wyngaard, Cape Forum’s Chairperson.

We have taken note that the incident occurred at Knysna High School in the Southern Cape. This is a community in which Cape Forum is active with regards to safety initiatives. Cape Forum appreciates the transparency with which the principal, Mark Mosdell, handled the matter among other things through the letter he addressed to parents and learners. In this letter, he rejects any form of racism.

“Our organisation believes in mutual respect and recognition of South Africa’s diverse cultural society. We cannot excuse or justify any act of disrespect or racism – regardless of who commits it – from one group against another,” continues Wyngaard. “When the alleged offence is as serious as the use of the k-word by a learner, it should be dealt with the same seriousness and severity.”

Wyngaard says Cape Forum’s main focus area is education. The organisation will therefore approach the school with an offer to host workshops for senior learners through which they can be taught cultural sensitivity. Cape Forum believes it is not enough simply to condemn the incident, but that something must be done about it.

“Our biggest fear is that the matter will be treated as an isolated incident, while racist sentiment may in fact be present among more learners,” says Wyngaard. “We are also concerned about the origin of the learner’s remark and call on the entire schooling community – learners, parents, teachers, staff, and local leaders – to assist with the educational task.”

The educational task, as far as Cape Forum is concerned, is to address racial prejudice and promote social cohesion at all levels of society. This carries particular importance in the context of the upcoming Heritage Month celebrations.