New #blackface row at Stellenbosch

Published Feb 5, 2016

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Cape Town - Stellenbosch University authorities are reportedly investigating an incident in which two white students wore black paint to a residence party.

According to News24, the Heemstede Koshuis party was supposed to have a space theme.

In an apology reportedly posted on Facebook, one of the students apologised for the incident , saying they painted themselves dark purple and covered their bodies in glitter.

News24 reports that Stellenbosch University spokesperson Martin Viljoen said the university’s equality unit was investigating.

Read:  Blackface scandal hits Stellenbosch

“In the light of a similar incident in 2014, as well as national reports on acts of racism in our country, management regards the incident in a very serious light. Further, management condemns of all forms of racism and acknowledges the damaging effects on its students, staff, and members of the public.”

The equality unit was recently established to deal with discrimination and sexual harassment at the institution.

Read:  Stellies ‘blackface’ duo say sorry

Stellenbosch University student representatives council chairperson James de Villiers has reportedly denounced the incident as “insensitive” and “unacceptable”, calling on harsh punishment for the students.

In a previous incident two students posted pictures of themselves on social media dressed up as US tennis playing siblings Serena and Venus Williams in 2014, sparking a huge public outcry.

Social media commentors have been quick to voice their opinion on the latest #blackface scandal.

some people just don't have morals,its like they're missing a brain cell or something. So disgusted #blackface

— Kuda (@justkuda) February 5, 2016

#blackface is the kind of culture @StellenboschUni accepts! Finish and Klaar, I mean investigation for who?

— Sixolile Pani (@Sir_Sixo_Pani) February 5, 2016

It doesn't matter whether or not you understand why #blackface is offensive. It is. Just stop. #stellenbosch

— Nicole Lombard (@NicoleBombard) February 5, 2016

IOL

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