The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) on Tuesday, 3 September condemned the violence, destruction of property and hatred directed against innocent people in the streets of Johannesburg.
“We call for an end to this latest wave of xenophobia and for all leaders across the political, religious and social spectrum to speak out strongly against the targeting of foreign nationals,'” said the board’s representative on the Hate Crimes Working Group, Alana Baranov.
Baranov said words have immense power and they reiterate the importance for political and community leaders to use responsible language that does not inflame the current tensions and further divide communities at a time when all who live in South Africa should be working together to improve the lives of all.
“These terrible events, coming just a few weeks after the lapsing of the Hate Crimes Bill, once again highlight the urgent need for comprehensive legislation to prevent and combat xenophobia as well as all other forms of prejudice and bigotry,” she said.
The board urged the government to take a stand against the scourge of hate crimes and for the terrible events of today to spur effective action for the future.
Details: Alana Baranov 0832752184 or alanabaranov@gmail.com
Related article:
https://northeasterntribune.co.za/241344/south-africas-shocking-gender-based-violence-statistics/
