Devan Moonsamy 

In light of the recent situation in the country around racism which saw the Protea’s Quinton de Kock not taking the knee to show solidarity around the issues of racism at the T20 match in Sri Lanka, it has become imperative to look at how to handle a situation like this in the work place. De Kock did issue an apology since the incident highlighting the lack of clarity around the pre-game requirement. 

South African’s were also left in fury when Gareth Cliff made headlines for brushing off racism. On October 22nd, Cliff insinuated on his show online in a discussion between the DA’s John Steenhuisen and activist Mudzuli Rakhivane that racism was not as a big as a deal as poor service delivery. The incident left long time sponsor of the show Nando’s, with a distaste resulting in them pulling out their sponsorship from the show. 

How we address racism speaks volumes about our business. The fact is if we showcase even an atom of racism and lack of diversity, we will jeopardise the integrity of our organisation. What the above incidents have highlighted that there is a lack of clarity around how racism is handled in organisations. 

We must understand that no one wishes to associate with people who are involved and support racism. But the reality is that racism is one of the biggest challenges faced by employees who are unsure on the office polices around this sensitive issue. 

Whether we have recently jumped on the Black Lives Matter belief or if we have always advocated for it, we should relook at what strategy is in place to address underlying issues of racism in the office. 

There is no guide on how to handle racism. But after South Africans have lived under apartheid it is no surprise that racist behaviour is still being . We must understand that this is no excuse for racist behaviour. We can’t say I was a victim of apartheid hence I behave this way but what it comes down to is understanding that this behaviour is not tolerated and we need to do something about it. 

Here’s how we can discuss or revive policies around racism:

  • You need to keep the conversation going. It shouldn’t be a discussion only when there is a hype around it. The first real step is to acknowledge the current injustice and express your commitment to eradicating this toxic behaviour from the workplace. There must be a policy in place that addresses racism and how this is not tolerated in this organisation. This means briefing staff regularly on the need to leave this unacceptable behaviour at the door and treat every person they interact with in the business with respect and dignity.  
  • When an employee joins your organisation be sure to include all relevant policies in the induction pack or contract to ensure that they are familiar with your stance on all aspects of life. By introducing these policies at the start of their journey allows them to align themselves with your belief system in your business. 
  • Racism still occurs in the workplace sometimes despite the policies and obvious knowledge of this. There are different cultural groups and diversity spheres that divide people. Instead of waiting for heritage month to explore and celebrate diversity, try to make it a regular thing. Normalise familiarity of culture and diversity in the office. 
  • Training is key. If workshops and training seminars are needed then it must be done. Having an outside person address the subject can help your staff open up more around their experiences. 

Devan Moonsamy is the CEO of ICHAF Training Institute, a South African TVET College. He is the author of Racism, Classism, Sexism, And The Other ISMs That Divide Us, AND My Leadership Legacy Journal available from the ICHAF Training Institute. 

The ICHAF Training Institute offers SETA-approved training in business skills, computer use, and soft skills. Devan specialises in conflict and diversity management, and regularly conducts seminars on these issues for corporates. To book a seminar with Devan or for other training courses, please use the contact details below.

Tel: 011 262 2461 | 083 303 9159 |

Email: admin@ichaftraining.co.za devan@ichaftraining.co.za | 

Website: www.ichaftraining.co.za |  www.devan-moonsamy.com