Letter: Consider what to publish

Rosalind MacDonald of Ballito writes:

Is there any kind of vetting done before publishing an opinion piece?

Surely you don’t publish every opinion that crosses your desk?

I’m appalled that there is an opinion in your publication (Everyone wants to be offended, Two Bits, October 18) regarding the TRESemmé shampoo advert essentially telling black women that they have no right to be offended by a racist advert aimed at them as a target market.

Would someone inform the writer that absolutely no-one on this planet has the right to decide if someone can be offended.

The product and the furore surrounding it was not targeted at him so his time would be better spent on activities that don’t require his privileged white male perspective.

The fact that this piece was published is troubling, it shows a leaning towards being sympathetic to racists.

This incident may seem trivial to most but most have not been in a position where their “crowning glory” is not celebrated but rather encouraged to look more European and the years of shame and ridicule surrounding this.

I sincerely hope you will put more consideration into what you publish in future.

I am delighted you feel strongly enough to express your opinion, as the writer did his – Editor.