As much as I disagree with the racist comments 'that' model made on Twitter, and as much as I believe that ALL racism is a bad thing, I have to ask myself why there seems to be an overwhelming double standard when it comes to racism in South Africa.
Why is there such an almighty outcry about one white chick saying something offensive, when we live in a country where racism is a political bargaining chip? Why is there such a hullaballoo about her comments when she has no power in reality, but not nearly as much attention is paid to those who DO have power?
First up is the poster child for the anti minority brigade: Malema.
He's called white people criminals and worse, sung songs about murdering them, and insulted the entire Indian community by calling them koolies.
Then there's the 'voice' of the ANC - old Manyi, who managed to insult coloured people and many others, and of course, Floyd, the not too bright racist hatespeech texter.
It's not only in speech that there are double standards though.
When a black person can't find a job, it's because of racism... but what about AA and BEE - they ARE institutionalised, legislative racism. Slice it whichever way you like it, they are designed to discriminate based on race, and what is that BUT racism?
Television is skewed towards particular race groups, it's acceptable to have race specific organisations (but only for the 'right' race groups) and there are many, many other instances.
Not to mention the fact that because most white people can't speak an African language (or only speak one) it's easy to insult us without us even knowing about it.
The racist tweets from those models were wrong, yes. But they were BOTH wrong. Just like every other racist statement from every other racist person, whether black, wihte, Indian or Chinese is wrong.
The only time we're ever going to stop this idiocy is when we , learn to respect EVERYONE, and to apply the same standards and censure, when necessary, to everyone.
Of course, that can only happen if there is the political will, and unfortunately, having gone from one racist party to another, that's not likely to happen soon.
When will we all learn that we don't have to like each other? We just have to leave each other alone if necessary, and refrain from speaking our 'minds' in public. It really is that simple.
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