Let’s talk session hosted in Estcourt
The first Let's talk Estcourt session was held on November 6 with one of the main topics being the #BlackMonday farmers protests
A ’round table discussion ‘ stems from a form of academic discussion. Participants agree on a specific topic to discuss and debate. Each person is given equal right to participate. It provides a space to exchange opinions, share ideas and reach solutions.
It also provided an excellent opportunity for community members to meet and have an open dialogue. One such session was held in Estcourt recently, after the #BlackMonday farmers protests.
SEE THIS: WATCH: Aerial footage of the N3 #BlackMonday protest
David Allen, who facilitated the ‘Let’s talk Estcourt’ meeting and WhatsApp group says that comments from locals on social media spurred the decision to host a talk session.
“A friend in Durban had set up one of these sessions during the #FeesMustFall campaign and it was interesting to hear the perspectives of others from different races and educational backgrounds,” explained Mr Allen.
The first Let’s talk Estcourt session was held on November 6 with one of the main topics being the #BlackMonday farmers protests. 13 people attended and as Mr Allen explained, it was an interesting session where opinions were taken in, digested and the evening ended with handshakes and even some hugs.
ALSO READ:#BlackMonday: Farmers take a stand
“At the outset, I did not want confrontation because this is a racially charged subject. I wanted the spirit of ‘I want to understand’. We had people from completely opposite political and racial lines, as well as an eighth generation farmer, so we had interesting perspectives,” said Mr Allen.
Among some of the subjects that were dissected at the talk session, includes the perception that racism exists in farming, history of Estcourt and surrounding areas and the display of the old South African flag during the #BlackMonday marches.
After a show of keen enthusiasm for a second session, one was planned for November 27.
However, due to a poor turnout, the meeting was postponed. A suitable date in February 2018 is being looked at.
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