CAPE TOWN - Cosatu takes offence at the words Black Friday, claiming that it originates from the time when slaves were sold on a Friday.
Cosatu states that the predominantly white retail sector is insensitive to the fact that black South Africans were subjected to slavery and slave-like abuse under colonialism and apartheid.
"Cosatu demands an apology for the use of this insensitive name for the sale promotion and the developing of an alternative word for advertising that does not offend," Cosatu statement read.
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The workers' federation notes the right and freedom the South African retailers have - to promote sales and offer discounts to their consumers.
"But they do not have the right to infringe on the dignity of Black South Africans in such a callous manner," Cosatu added.
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"Workers in South Africa continue to be treated in slave-like conditions by many sectors of the economy" the statement concluded.
South Africans today are out and about and some riding online shopping platforms, filling their shopping baskets with discounted items offered by the majority of retailers.