Very often people will unnecessarily make an issue of a small thing just to "prove a point" or to get back at another race group, language group, religious group or whatever. What we have to bear in mind is that it's not really words that hurt, but attitudes. That is why black Americans can call each other "niggers" at times, but when a police officer uses that term, it is offensive. It is because it implicates that the officer is superior to the black guy.Originally Posted by Dave A
Our history is one of turmoil and war, of victor and conquered, of slaves and masters. Even today you get white Afrikaners who resent the British because of the atrocities (read war crimes) of the Boer war. The black tribes conquered by the Brits and the Boers may feel the same resentment. Descendants of the slaves in the Cape Colony do not want to be reminded of their forefathers' suffering. Therefore any derogatory word that may suggest that a person is of a lower class or lesser breed will be seen as offensive.
It is therefore essential that we learn more about our different cultures and start respecting each other as people. Treating people with respect breeds mutual trust on which a future can be built. We need to plant the seeds now for our future generations to live prosperous and peaceful lives in this beautiful country.
Not all South Africans have had the same opportunities with regard to education or training, however our resilience has seen many South African sons and daughters rise above poverty and prejudice to become respected entrepreneurs and leaders not only in their communities, but also on the world stage. Let's aspire to rise with them and refrain from pulling each other down instead.
Reply With Quote
Did you like this article? Share it with your favourite social network.