LETTER: K-word has the force to pierce and wound like no other

SAHRC Western Cape provincial manager Zena Nair yesterday confirmed they were aware of the incidents. Picture: Facebook

SAHRC Western Cape provincial manager Zena Nair yesterday confirmed they were aware of the incidents. Picture: Facebook

Published Jul 31, 2024

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The K-word uttered at Table View High School by a substitute teacher is absolutely disgusting. This word,” K” is now probably the most offensive word in English, in the history of our nation.

Its degree of offensiveness has increased remarkably in recent years, although it has been used in a derogatory manner for at least 50 years.

The K-word is arguably the most consequential social insult in our history. The word conjures up within us hate, hostility and oppression, and a very shameful and unfortunate part of our turbulent racial legacy.

The word symbolises the everlasting chains of a people plagued with hate and bondage simply because of skin colour and culture. The word has the force to pierce, to wound, to penetrate, as no other has, it stands alone with its power to tear at one’s insides. The word must be expunged completely from our vocabulary.

* Farouk Araie, Johannesburg.

** The views expressed here are not necessarily those of Independent Media.

Cape Argus

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