Finding an ‘Arnsa’ to racism

The Anti-Racism Network South Africa (Arnsa) calls on all sectors of society to support Anti-Racism Week this year.

Arnsa, in conjunction with various partners, will host an Anti-Racism Week from 14 to 21 March, culminating on Human Rights Day and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The organisation was launched in 2015 by the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

Arnsa’s national convenor, Sean Moodley, urged South Africans to factor the week in their plans. “We are calling on businesses, schools, government departments, sports teams, civil society organisations, universities, the media, trade unions, faith-based institutions and others to plan ahead for Anti-Racism Week,” he said. “We want South Africans to think creatively around campaigns and programmes to tackle racism in their various sectors.”

This year will mark the second annual Anti-Racism Week and Zaakirah Vadi, the communications officer at the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, explained how they intended to spread their reach further.

“What has punted the start of Anti-Racism Week is the overt racism we’ve seen,” said Vadi. “In 1994, people thought racism would disappear, but recently we’ve seen a resurgence of overtly racist incidents.

“This year we’re going to expand to include more stakeholders and contributors to the awareness week and intensify our efforts. During the week we will encourage activities which relate to practical and awareness levels. We’re encouraging every South African to get involved.

“They will be able to log on to the website and see where the events are taking place in their communities and how they can get involved.”

Last year, schoolchildren were educated on racism and encouraged to take their knowledge into their homes to create awareness. Businesses held talks and seminars, places of worship hosted anti-racism days and some sports teams dedicated their international games to raising awareness of anti-racism.

“We are once again urging South Africans to #TakeOnRacism,” Moodley said.

The theme for this year’s campaign will focus on the idea of becoming a champion against racism by reflecting on each of one’s personal feelings towards the matter or challenging others’ feelings. The daily themes for the week include: Be Aware, Be Frank, Be Challenged, Be Conscious, Be Brave, Be Just, Be Free and Become.

As the week approaches, the organisation will confirm the various events and campaigns that will take place as part of Anti-Racism Week, so make sure to get involved this year.

Details: www.arnsa.org.za/home

Read: To deal with racism, address the root cause – Motlanthe

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