STATEMENT ON "AFRIKAANS IS GROOT" AND THE EVENT'S ASSOCIATION WITH STEVE HOFMEYR
The African National Congress Youth League of Ward 91 (Greater Tshwane Region) notes with dismay the public confrontation between Afrikaans singer and "social-activist" Steve Hofmeyr and satirist Conrad Koch (Chester Missing). Furthermore, we take note of Koch's call on consumers to boycott institutions commercially supporting Hofmeyr and specifically his call for a boycott of "Afrikaans is Groot" (AIG), a cultural event that will take place at Moreleta Church in our ward between the 14th and 22nd November.
Whilst we fully respect the right of all national groups to practice their cultures in peace we wholeheartedly condemn the statement allegedly made by Hofmeyr in which he said, "In my books blacks were the architects of apartheid". Furthermore, we note that this was not the first time that racially offensive statements have been attributed to Mr Hofmeyr. In light of the much publicised call by Koch for some form of sanction against Hofmeyr, and bearing in mind that AIG is set to take place in our ward, we feel it is our necessary duty to support the condemnation of Hofmeyer whom appears to be unapologetic in his highly controversial statements regarding race.
We call on progressive Afrikaners to reject and isolate those whom insist on spreading racial venom. Ideologically the African National Congress Youth League and her members subscribe to the notion of an inclusive African nationalism that respects the rights and dignity of all. In line with this ideological position we cannot allow racism to occur without consequence and it is thus critical that we make this call for the isolation and confrontation of racist elements.
South Africa belongs to all who live in it! So our Freedom Charter declares. Those who do not wish to allow peaceful coexistence, those who are caught in the past - can feel free to leave if they so wish.
Statement issued by Cde Tshepo Masanabo, African National Congress Youth League Ward 91, Greater Tshwane Region Chairman, November 11 2014
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