On confronting Xenophobia: Upholding our shared rights

Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu (A person is a person through other people) — Zulu Proverb

In a recent national television appearance in South Africa, Thebe Ikalefeng, a renowned Brand Africa expert and one of the few individuals to have travelled the entire African continent, shared a powerful and thought-provoking message. Ikalefeng emphasised the rightful claim of individuals born in or naturalized in South Africa to participate fully in the nation’s opportunities, including the prestigious Miss South Africa pageant. He condemned the rising tide of xenophobia and reminded viewers of the constitutional rights accorded to every South African citizen, regardless of their origins.

Reflection 1

Thebe Ikalefeng’s plea for unity and rights

Ikalefeng’s plea was straightforward and impassioned: “She has every right to enter and represent us in the Miss South Africa pageant; and to take advantage of every opportunity in this country. She has every right to claim her South African citizenship as enshrined in the constitution for those naturalized or born in South Africa by one of the parents who hold South African citizenship.” His words highlighted the irony and injustice of xenophobia in a nation where many citizens were once refugees themselves. He called out the hypocrisy of discriminating against African migrants while ignoring the historical migration and settlement of others since 1652.

Reflection 2

Rams Mabote’s historical context

Rams Mabote, a respected PR professional, provided a historical context that underscores the absurdity of current xenophobic attitudes. He recounted the story of his ancestors, a group of black men from Mozambique who were taken by Portuguese colonialists on a mission and ended up scattered across Southern Africa. These men, including Mabote’s great-great-grandfather, integrated into local communities, becoming Basotho, Batswana, and Bapedi, depending on where they settled.

Mabote’s narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the fluidity of African identities and the shared histories that bind the continent’s people. He expressed frustration that, despite his deep South African roots, he is still perceived as an outsider: “Yet, yet, I suspect, if the current debate is anything to go by, I am a foreigner, even a kwerekwere. I should not own property here, earn my living here and call South Africa my home, even though I am a fourth-generation South African.”

Reflection 3

Shirley Mlombo’s legal perspective

Human rights lawyer Shirley Mlombo weighed in on the legal aspects of the controversy. She criticized the media for exacerbating the issue with conflicting reports about the parentage of the Miss South Africa candidate. Mlombo clarified the simplicity of the matter: “If one of her parents is South African, she is South African.” Her input underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional law and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their heritage, are treated with respect and equality.

Reflection 4

The role of the media

Mlombo’s critique of the media highlights a significant factor in the perpetuation of xenophobia. The media’s role in shaping public opinion cannot be understated, and in this case, it has often fueled the fire of xenophobic sentiment. Responsible journalism should aim to inform and educate, promoting understanding and unity rather than division. Recent reports and studies have highlighted the significant impact of social media vitriol on mental health. For instance, the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) World Mental Health Report emphasises the need to transform environments that influence mental health, including social media spaces.

    Constant exposure to negative and discriminatory rhetoric can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and a sense of alienation among targeted communities. From a mental health architectural perspective, it is crucial to build a media environment that fosters inclusivity, empathy, and support for all individuals.

Conclusion: A call to action

The reflections shared by Ikalefeng, Mabote, and Mlombo serve as a powerful call to action for all South Africans. It is time to reject xenophobia and embrace the diversity that has always been a part of the nation’s fabric. The constitutional rights enshrined in South African law must be upheld for all, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their heritage, can participate fully in the nation’s opportunities.

As Ikalefeng aptly put it, “We need to separate criminals from countries; and deal with them appropriately through the right channels. Not everyone who has non-South African heritage and is legally here is a criminal.” It is a call to remember the shared histories, the struggles, and the triumphs that have shaped the continent and to build a future rooted in unity and respect for all.

Moreover, addressing the negative mental health impacts of media vitriol is essential. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive media environment, we can mitigate the adverse effects on mental health and promote a healthier, more unified society. This approach not only respects the dignity of all individuals but also strengthens the social fabric of South Africa, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future.