The DA encourages all South Africans to support anti-racism week which commences today

14 March 2016

We hope that this worthwhile initiative by the Anti-Racism Network of South Africa, spear-headed by organisations such as the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which acts as a catalyst that encourages constructive dialogue and engagement, and once again emphasizes the value of reconciliation in our diverse country. 

This is indeed an opportunity to show bold leadership in addressing a problem which continues to pervade our society, and inflicts hurt and pain on so many of our country men and women.

Our leaders should take the lead in doing just this. Cheap political point scoring using race only undermines the very legitimate concerns so many South Africans continue to raise and experience day-to-day. 

On our part, the Democratic Alliance is committed to the fight against racism. Racism has no place in our constitutional democracy, founded on the principles of Freedom, Equality and Dignity, and no place – whatsoever - in our party. 

That is why just last week, DA leader, Mmusi Maimane MP, launched the DA’s #FairSAcampaign.  For many South Africans, the freedom that our country won in 1994 seems limited to the benefit of the few, and not the majority. Structural inequality in our economy continues to protect the insiders, and keep the outsiders away from opportunities. 

As a party we are absolutely 100% committed to overcoming the structural inequality and systemic racism which continues 22 years into our democracy. We are also committed to ensuring that every single person, from their birth, have more equal access to the rights and opportunities promised by our Constitution. 

By doing so, we can build one nation, with one future. South Africans must together say no to racism and structural inequality and help build a country based on the principles of Freedom, Fairness and Opportunity for all.

Issued by Phumzile Van Damme, DA National Spokesperson, 14 March 2016