The Western Cape is under the spotlight again for issues related to racism in institutions of learning. This time, teachers from a primary school in Hout Bay have called attention to the unfair treatment of staff members based on the colour of their skin.
Hout Bay school staff cry foul over racism row
As reported by Cape Times, a small group of protesters picketed outside the school premises on Monday. Disa Primary School management has refused to make comment and explain the situation from their perspective.
However, we understand that teachers are protesting against the unfair treatment of black staff members. One of the protest leaders Roscoe Jacobs, a community activist, told the cited publication that teachers at the school have endured oppressive policies for nine years.
’’White staff members are granted leave without hesitation but it is a different case for black staff. We want more workers to come out in their numbers so that they can address these issues,” Jacobs said.
Is WCED losing the fight against racism in schools?
Monday’s protest action didn’t disrupt school proceedings and according to Jacobs, Disa’s management has agreed to discuss the protesters’ grievances in a meeting scheduled for next week.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) was probed on the growing number of racism cases in schools.
The riots of Brackenfell were already a stark reminder of the deep-rooted supremism that is embedded in the hierarchy of the Western Cape’s school system.
Now, faced with yet another racism row at a school, the WCED realises that a lot of work needs to be done to see the changes in their strategies.
“While many issues have been resolved through courageous and ongoing conversations, and the implementation of various strategies, as for policies and protocols that promote inclusivity and diversity, much still needs to be done,” WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said in a statement.