Black people have often fallen victim to racial abuse from people of other colours. However, in an unfortunate instance reported in Zimbabwe, it seems the tables have turned.
In a rare incident in Borrowdale suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe, a white person, Kyle Dakers, reported that they were racially attacked by a black man out of nowhere.
The victim shared the following:
Good evening my good peopleI’ve just been slapped in borrowdale by some guy for no reason ! ….. He slapped me through the car this is at Pomona valley just a few minutes ago. Can I get some help !
People we’re coming at my family saying that we should go back to London honestly what is it with racism half my friends a Zimbabwean actually I am a Zimbabwean!!!!
What is surprising or different about this attack is that its not often that white people experience racial prejudices. Most movements that are aimed at addressing issues of segregation are often pioneered by black people. Think of the Black Lives Matter movement which the New York Times stated that it may just be the largest movement in US History. Black people, even in Africa, resonated with some of the sentiments shared by black people in America even several years into the precolonial era.
When The Tables Turn
Although black people have experienced the effects of racism the most even after the precolonial era, their response towards this matter refreshing. Some black people rallied behind the victim whilst sharing the following sentiments:
“Very sad to hear that! This is unacceptable no matter what race. We should treat each other like human beings. We have experienced racism as a family for years and it’s not a good feeling. Let love and kindness lead. No human being has to be made to feel that way”
“This is quite appalling and upsetting behavior. This day and age such stlll exists!! It’s a pity some of our minds need to reform.
So sorry for your experience.”
While some people ruled off that this might have been a thief, this behaviour might not be surprising if it is coming from someone who might have experienced the effects racial segregation themselves.
This shows that there is a need for reconciliation and healing measures to be afforded those with such experiences. This is the approach that the government is taking towards those that suffered as a result of the Gukurahundi Massacres.
Kyle Dakers resorted to take some of the advice he received and proceeded to report the matter. He shared his appreciation for those who helped in the following post:
We hope the issue is resolved soon for the greater good.