Unite against racism, SA – urges network

A call for South Africans to unite against racism was the core message of the Anti-Racism Network of South Africa (Arnsa) ahead of the annual Anti-Racism Week from 14 to 21 March.

At a media briefing held at the Human Rights Room, Constitution Hill, Arnsa shared their plans for the week with various panellists pledging their support of the awareness week.

Arnsa’s coordinator, Busisiwe Nkosi explained that Anti-Racism Week was aimed at creating public awareness about the effects of racism in our society and how it could be tackled. “This week of awareness is held annually during Human Rights Month… It’s about ensuring that there is a countrywide focus on tackling racism and that it remains on the national agenda.”

Nkosi said they have specifically chosen to focus on sport and anti-racism. “This will also be an opportunity for the country to reiterate its support for athlete, Caster Semenya, who is currently challenging the IAAF’s regressive policies, which raises questions about its treatment of black athletes.”

Also present at the briefing was a member of the African Union’s Youth Advisory Council Dr Shakira Choonara who said it was important for the youth to have dialogues about racism. “We must be aware of what we say when we are in our home,” she warned. “Children are the ones who are most vulnerable and internalise what we say in front of them.

“There are so many lines we as people cross when we have a conversation about racial classification, some of which are discriminatory.

“This week should not just be a normal week, it should be declared of national importance and taken seriously. Maybe we need a truth and reconciliation for ordinary citizens. We need to have an empathic society that is also willing to learn, teach and educate about what racism is actually about.”

The racism awareness week is being hosted for the fourth time by Arnsa which was established by the Ahmed Kathrada and Nelson Mandela foundations in 2015.

The media launch was also to encourage all sectors of society to participate in the week and help push racial boundaries.