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Media Statement: SAHRC Condemns the Utterances of Radio Personality and Deejay, Calls on Efforts toward Social Cohesion
Attention Editors and Reporters
3rd October 2018
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC or Commission) condemns the use of the term “monkey” by former radio deejay and radio personality, Sasha Martinengo, in reference to Member of the National Legislature, Honourable, Julius Malema. The Commission is particularly concerned as Martinengo, at the time of the utterance, did so during a radio breakfast show, where he is expected to use his massive platform in the promotion of the respect of equality and dignity.
3rd October 2018
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC or Commission) condemns the use of the term “monkey” by former radio deejay and radio personality, Sasha Martinengo, in reference to Member of the National Legislature, Honourable, Julius Malema. The Commission is particularly concerned as Martinengo, at the time of the utterance, did so during a radio breakfast show, where he is expected to use his massive platform in the promotion of the respect of equality and dignity.
The Commission commends the radio station concerned, Hot 91.9 FM, for taking immediate action and dismissing Martinengo. The Commission has also taken note of the Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF’s) expressed intention to lay criminal charges against Mr Martinengo for his utterances and would encourage such action.
The Commission reminds all within South Africa that the use of words such as monkey and baboon – particularly in reference to black people - have a lengthy, dehumanising, racist history and due to previous public statements of a similar nature, the Commission, the media and other sectors within society have explained the offensive and discriminatory connotations to such terms. The Commission thus cannot excuse assumed or express ignorance around the hurtful and/or harmful nature of the use of such terms.
The Commission thus calls on all within South Africa to endeavour to promote respect for human rights, social cohesion, equality, dignity and freedom within our constitutional democracy, by amongst others, condemning utterances of this nature.
Ends
Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission
Gushwell Brooks – Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 082 645 8573 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.
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