Curro Holdings issued an apology following backlash over an ill-timed and racially insensitive social media post.
Curro courts backlash over racially insensitive social media post
PLEASE NOTE: The third-party content below is shared on our platform for journalistic purposes. Swisher Post, its parent company, partners and affiliates shall not be held liable for any consequence that arises from the journalistic duties performed in sharing this content.
The private school found itself at the centre of controversy after a social media post, intended to portray children in various workplace contexts, sparked outrage due to its use of racial stereotypes.
The post in question featured a depiction of a black child as a cashier and a white child as a veterinarian.
This particular representation sparked immediate criticism from the public, who condemned the stereotypical portrayal of race in professional contexts.
Parents raised serious concerns about Curro reinforcing outdated and racially insensitive stereotypes, especially in educational settings where inclusivity and diversity should be paramount.
The company swiftly removed the post and apologised, recognising that the depiction was inappropriate.
“Curro reiterates its commitment to diversity and non-racialism in our schools,” the institution wrote.
Legal loomings: The ‘Currious’ case of Nonkululeko Gwatyu
Adding to Curro’s challenges is the legal case involving Nonkululeko Gwatyu, a former teacher at Curro Academy, who alleges racial discrimination and unfair dismissal by the institution.
Gwatyu’s dismissal followed an incident where she was reportedly subjected to racial slurs by a superior.
Gwatyu’s ordeal began when she was reportedly subjected to racial slurs by her superior, Shanette Tiquin, who allegedly referred to Gwatyu as a “monkey.”
This derogatory comment, emblematic of the racial tensions still present in certain segments of South African society, set the stage for the ensuing legal confrontation.
Following the incident, Gwatyu took a stand against the discrimination she faced, an action that she believes led to her unfair dismissal. The school cited lateness as the official reason for her dismissal, a charge Gwatyu contends was a pretext to remove her for challenging a racist remark made by a member of the school’s executive team.
In pursuit of justice, Gwatyu approached the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA), seeking redress for both unfair dismissal and discrimination.
The legal proceedings took a turn on 4 March 2024, when Gwatyu and representatives from Curro met at the CCMA. The matter was presided over by Commissioner Thandiwe Tsheyana, who, upon reviewing the case, suggested a potential settlement.
Curro, however, declined, asserting their belief in the strength of their case against Gwatyu. As the CCMA lacks jurisdiction over cases of discrimination, Tsheyana referred the matter to the Labour Court, where the matter still unfolds.
