MyPE

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Are You Also Tired of This Word?

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However well meaning we are, we still slip into divisive forms of communication/wording from time to time.

One of those words that is negative is ‘township’ as it carries a negative connotation harking back to the days of apartheid.

We need to make a decision here and choose ONE word to describe our Neighbourhood Units.

The fair thing to do would be to DROP the word ‘suburb’ from our vocabulary and refer to each area as a TOWNSHIP – e.g. The Township of Summerstrand, The Township of Parsons Hill, The Township of Kensington etc.

AND, before you have a mild fit at taking away the word ‘suburb’ from our South African vocabulary examine why you do NOT want to call your area a ‘township’. If it is because you think the word demeaning then spare a thought for those citizens who live in “The Townships”!

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Ward 7 Independent Councillor

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.