FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Cape Town, August 11, 2025 – The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) expresses deep concern and disappointment at the recent remarks made about Coloured people on the Open Chat Podcast. These comments were offensive, harmful, and perpetuate deeply rooted stereotypes that have no place in a democratic, inclusive, and respectful society.

The pain and divisiveness caused by these statements must not be understated. At a time when South Africa continues to heal from the scars of its past, we cannot allow careless or prejudiced language — particularly in public platforms — to deepen social divides and further marginalise communities.

Words carry influence and with that comes responsibility. In the hands of public figures and content creators, they carry even greater responsibility. We urge the creators of the Open Chat Podcast to issue a genuine and public apology, and to take meaningful steps toward understanding the rich and complex history of the Coloured community in South Africa. This includes engaging with communities, learning from lived experiences, and ensuring such mistakes are not repeated.

At the IJR, we remain steadfast in our mission to build inclusive societies founded on justice, dignity, and equality. We believe that every voice matters and that every person, regardless of race, culture, or heritage, deserves to be treated with respect.

We call on all content creators and public commentators to stand with us in rejecting all forms of racism, discrimination, and prejudice. Let us commit to nurturing a society in which our diversity is celebrated, not ridiculed — and where the power of words is used to uplift, not harm.

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Issued by:
The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation
www.ijr.org.za

Media contact:

Mnganjo@ijr.org.za