Durban - In a week of deaths and thousands of foreigners fleeing rampaging mobs, religious leaders urged people in KwaZulu-Natal to remember their shared humanity.
Father Peter Lafferty, Commissioner for Refugees of the Catholic Archdiocese of Durban, said the church condemned anyone who encour-aged hatred, conflict or violence in communities.
“The church is committed to supporting all in need. The church, its organisations and parishes provide food, shelter, assistance and comfort to those suffering and on the margins of society.
“Sadly, many in our country, South Africans and foreigners, feel vulnerable, powerless, de-fenceless and unheard.”
He said the church had an important role to play in building bridges and helping people to learn to engage and respect differences.
“Local parishes are often where people from different backgrounds get to know each other and see each other as neighbours. For example, for years we’ve run healing workshops in which South Africans and refugees come together to deal with traumatic memories.
“Often in hearing others’ stories we learn there is more that unites us than divides us. Over the years we’ve had situations in which South Africans have helped refugees and they have helped South Africans. This is the real spirit of ubuntu.”
Moulana Ahmed Yusuf Ma-homedy of the Jamiatul Ulama KZN (the council of Muslim theologians), said the current spate of xenophobia in parts of the province was not only tragic but ironic.
“We have come a long way from the dark days of apart-heid. Having a history of such a hard-fought liberation should propel us to never allow any discrimination again.
“We cannot forget people not only opened their countries to our liberation fighters, but also their hearts and homes in our hour of need.”
“The government needs to send out a strong message that this form of racism will not be tolerated and the message must be clearly understood at grass-roots level.
“On behalf of the Muslim community, we pray and seek the help of almighty God that He bless our nation with peace, tolerance and harmony.”
Mahomedy said the Jamiatul Ulama KZN fed victims of xenophobia in Isipingo on Saturday and would “continue to assist wherever possible”.
Ashwin Trikamjee of the Hindu Maha Saba said:
“We appear to have lost our humanity, tolerance, compassion and reason.
“It’s time for us all to speak out against this unacceptable behaviour and for leaders of faith to restore the voice of reason in our society.”
Saydoon Nisa Sayed of the Religions For Peace group said: ”We have the skill to transform a bad situation to one that works for the betterment of humanity. We can find a way to live in harmony.”
The Jewish community of KZN was not able to respond as its chief rabbi was following the strict observances that form part of the holy Passover celebration.
The Diakonia Council of Churches held an anti-xenophobic prayer vigil on Thursday at Durban City Hall.
Sunday Tribune