‘Blackface’ incident to be investigated
The Management of Stellenbosch University (US) was informed this morning of a “blackface” incident in a residence on campus. It has been established that two female students are involved.
The University is acting swiftly in the matter and a case has been registered with the Equality Unit, a recently established unit to deal with all forms of unfair discrimination and sexual harassment.
In the light of a similar incident in 2014 as well as national reports on acts of racism in our country , Management regards the incident in a very serious light. Further, Management condemns of all forms of racism and acknowledges the damaging effects on its students, staff and members of the public.
Meanwhile the Faculty of Law said in 'n short media release it has noted with concern the apparent involvement of a Stellenbosch Law student in an alleged 'Blackface' incident on campus during this week."The relevant University structures are currently in the process of investigating the matter. Upon the necessary information being received, a further statement will be released by the Faculty," reads the statement.
More information to follow.
See below for a statement by the SRC.
SRC stance on alleged racist incident
5 February 2016
The SRC strongly condemns the recent “Black-facing” incident that has taken place at one of our University’s womxn residences. It is our belief that any insensitive act of painting oneself should not be acceptable in 2016, especially after the vast attention the media and the University has given to this issue. This ignorant act goes against our values as it further perpetuates the exclusionary institutional culture within this University.
Blackfacing dates back to the despotic days of slavery, where Black people were fetishized and treated as animals on stages - known examples are Jim Crow, and Zip Coon performed by George Dixon is another popular example where the actor made a mockery of free blacks.
These shows were characterizations done by white people where the expectations was created that if you have a darker skin, no matter what your background, you would conform to various undermining stereotypes. There can be no justification for such acts as it is not in line with our Constitutional values and was highlighted in the now infamous 2014 Blackfacing at a Stellenbosch University Men’s residence.
The SRC has already reported this incident to the University’s Central Disciplinary Committee and we expect that this matter will be dealt with immediate effect. We implore the Centre for Student Structures and Communities to review the students’ accommodation in university residence while the process continues. We believe that harsh measures should be taken, especially since this campus has experienced “blackfacing” a mere year and a half ago.
We want to stress that we distance ourselves from any exclusionary practices taking place on this campus as we move towards a Stellenbosch University that is truly an African University. A campus that is truly inclusive, innovative and future focused.
Statement issued by James de Villiers, Head of Communication, 5 February 2016
ENDS
Statement issued by Stellenbosch University, 5 February 2016
