25 June 2018
Post Newspaper
Subtle Racism

As a South African Indian Youth, being a born – free young woman, my eyes don’t see skin colour as problematic. However, Malema’s ranting that the majority of Indian people are racist has had a strong reaction from all quarters because it’s his new formula for divisive politics pre the 2019 elections.

As a political party leader, Malema must remember that even strength in communication must be contextually, politically correct in the large programme of work that leaders do and if they are serious about social cohesion and nation building.

Subtle racism, such as, is as old as the hills, within every race group. This is not a majority Indian behavior but politics sees regime changes and social dominance. Unfortunately, the Indian community repeatedly becomes sandwiched by both Black African and White power struggles. We are insulted if we do not support the majority, whilst we are fed the politics of fear if we do not support the other group. To the politically elite, actions speak louder than words, and a vote is perceived as non – verbal communication of the racial attitudes of the our people, worsened by low voter turnout and general political complacency of the Indian community which Malema
judges.

I encourage Indian youth to become politically active in a constructive way,
by voting with their head and not their heart. This means knowing their true
political leaders, who not only guide them but make responsible statements
and decisions. Sadly, some party ideologies breeds subtle racism. To correct
this, the Electoral Commission, political parties, media and civil society
groups must embark on anti – racism training programmes which can
creatively take the form of dialogues, story – telling and the arts, such as,
rapping, dancing and drama.

Priyanka Nunkumar
Minority Front NEC Member
Youth Leader