READER LETTER | We need decisive action on racism

Last month, the developments at Pretoria High School for Girls serve as a stark reminder of the ANC’s failure to implement a radical and decisive programme of action against racism in SA. Despite the 2016 protests and subsequent promises of reform, the resurfacing of similar issues seven years later exposes the ANC’s lack of urgency and intentionality in addressing racism.

The fact that black girls are still forced to protest against discriminatory policies and institutional culture – that is targeting their natural hair orientation and inclusion in the space – highlights the entrenched nature of racism in SA institutions.

The lack of oversight by the Gauteng local government of the ANC and the failure of then MEC of education Panyaza Lesufi to take decisive action are clear indications of the ANC’s inability to lead on this issue. The ANC stands for nothing but political networks of patronage and expediency.  

As Zille asserted, the ANC has lost its way, relying on patronage and personalities rather than standing for principles and ideas. The party’s failure to rally people behind a radical transformation agenda has left SA stuck in a cycle of racism and inequality. It is time for a new approach, one that prioritises the empowerment of the black majority.

Lesego Mahlangu, community activist at Not In My Name International