Robust debate in residences after incident and suspension of students
7 February 2016
Stellenbosch University residences were buzzing with robust debate this weekend after a 'blackface' incident at a housewarming event in the Heemstede residence earlier in the week. Two female students of this residence have since been suspended from the residence pending the outcome of an investigation. One of the students has also been relieved from her duties as student mentor.
The University acted swiftly in the matter after Management was informed of the incident on Friday (5 February 2016). A case has been registered with the Equality Unit, a recently established entity to deal with all forms of unfair discrimination, and the matter was reported to the Central Disciplinary Committee. On Saturday, Management confirmed in a letter to the student community that all the investigators involved in the disciplinary process will be representative in terms of race and gender.
Over the weekend workshops, facilitated conversations and discussion circles took place in residences to use the incident as a vehicle to create awareness and understanding. Management on Sunday expressed its gratitude and appreciation for the fast and appropriate responses by the staff of the Student Affairs division, residence heads, student leaders, facilitators and students.
It also welcomed the robust and healthy engagement with transformation issues that was triggered by the incident, and the way that students are embracing the process. Stellenbosch University condemns all forms of racism and discrimination and acknowledges the severe negative impact of the pain and trauma experienced by students, staff and members of the public.
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.
On Friday evening students voiced their anger, discontent and hurt about the incident at a meeting held in Heemstede. It was attended by a large group of students, the Students' Representative Council, the residence house committee, Heemstede residents and University staff members, including Prof Nico Koopman, Acting Vice-Rector: Social Impact, Transformation and Personnel, and Prof Arnold Schoonwinkel, Vice-Rector: Learning and Teaching. Some discussions continued well into the night.
In a short statement issued on Friday the Faculty of Law said that it had noted with concern the apparent involvement of a Stellenbosch Law student in a 'blackface' incident on campus. "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."
All students who have been affected by the incident and require support, are requested to contact the confidential crisis service at 082 557 0880.
Statement issued by Stellenbosch University, 7 February 2016
