SHOUT's RESPONSE TO STEVE HOFMEYER'S COMMENTS

The Shout Foundation has taken note of some of the alleged racist comments made by singer Steve Hofmeyer as reported in the Sowetan today (see here).

Hofmeyer is one of over fifty Shout ambassadors. However, we wish to disassociate ourselves from his comments. There is no place for racial slurs or pointing of fingers based on race. Crime knows no colour and does not discriminate. We are all affected.

Comments that cause tension and/or hatred should be strongly discouraged. Shout aims to unite all South Africans in the fight against crime.

Hofmeyer's comments are completely out of step with what we at Shout stand for. While we encourage freedom of speech, we do not and will never encourage racist remarks or ones with racial undertones.

The foundation has asked Hofmeyer to explain himself. We are awaiting a response. Once we get it, we will decide on Hofmeyer's future as a Shout ambassador.

Statement issued by Gavin Koppel, chairman of the Shout Foundation, December 6 2010

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