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"SA Still Has a Race Problem" - Diversity Expert Calls for McKenzie's Resignation Over Racist Remarks

Aug 11, 2025 · 3 min read

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By Globalza

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Diversi-T founder Terry Oakley-Smith demands Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie's resignation following resurfaced racist remarks, calling it "grotesque hypocrisy" that undermines national unity.

"Grotesque Hypocrisy" in Leadership

Diversity advocate Terry Oakley-Smith has launched a scathing critique of Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie following the resurfacing of historical racist remarks:

"Having reviewed his tweets - not just the k-word incident but other vile statements - it's obscene he leads Sport and Culture," said Oakley-Smith. "These portfolios should unite us, yet his history reveals abhorrent racism."

Key concerns raised:

  • Appointment Vetting Failure: No apparent scrutiny of social media history
  • Damaged National Trust: Erodes public confidence in leadership
  • Sporting Division: Contradicts athletics' role in reconciliation

Systemic Racism Laid Bare

The interview highlighted alarming patterns:

  1. Youth Radicalization
    Recent "Open Chat" podcast scandal revealed young South Africans casually using racial slurs, suggesting intergenerational tolerance of racism.
  2. Violent Incidents
    Reference to a white woman driving into Zulu celebrants, killing one, as evidence of persistent racial violence.
  3. Government Inaction
    Criticism of the Government of National Unity for lacking diversity training before coalition formation.

"We pretend to be a rainbow nation, but we're miles away," Oakley-Smith stated.

The Resignation Demand

Oakley-Smith rejected McKenzie's AI-defense and denials:

"If he genuinely wants change, he should resign - not step aside with pay. Then demonstrate real transformation."

Proposed accountability measures:
Strict vetting of officials' digital histories
Enforcement of Hate Crimes Act provisions
Public apologies for historical racism

Cancel Culture as Civic Tool

The diversity expert endorsed strategic boycotts:

  • Avoid racist media/podcasts
  • Pressure networks to drop offensive figures
  • Demand ministerial standards

"When leaders won't act, citizens must through cancel culture," she argued, while distinguishing between accountability and censorship.

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