Post-apartheid racism among Afrikaans speaking urban adolescents : a narrative-pastoral reflection

Abstract

The impetus for this study was the seemingly increasing occurrences of racism among post-apartheid Afrikaans speaking urban adolescents in South Africa by taking a narrative practical theological perspective on the matter. This study, in particular, explored the dialogue(s), spiritual values and awareness levels of participants using transversal rationality. Two questions guided the investigation: (i) How deeply embedded are stereotypes of racism (traditions of interpretation) in the lives of the aforementioned adolescents?; and (ii) How can we instigate honest dialogue aiding us in being more aware of our biases in order to embrace diversity in our so-called rainbow nation and going forward as a unity in diversity? From an epistemological perspective, a postfoundational, social constructionist perspective including an auto-ethnographical approach was followed. This supports the research design which was based on narrative, practical theological principles. In the thesis, an attempt is made to come to a better holistic understanding of the history of racism in South Africa as to guide us to move beyond our own ‘socially-constructed’ ideas. The research indicated that Afrikaner adolescents could live life unquestioned from a position of power that was culturally inherited, bringing to the fore the crucial aspect of awareness. It was found that by objectifying relationships (I-It) diverse engagement becomes almost impossible. Consequently this thesis advocates for a subjective (I-Thou) approach towards building relationships in a context where people feel vulnerable and shameful, have fears, but also gain trust to contribute to meaningful dialogue with ‘others’. The study also disclosed how material options in life disintegrate when spirituality is viewed as a ‘lived experience’. This view is not forced, controlled, or managed; it is simply the IThou walking into our lives. Typical within a postfoundational practical theological study like this, interdisciplinary participants were invited to give some perspectives from their fields of expertise consisting of a psychologist, social worker and an economist. These participants highlighted fears that came to the fore when questions on identity were raised, as well as fears for the lived world. The manner in which social constructs affected our logic and the numbness that powerlessness has left were also raised as issues that need our attention. They strongly advocated for a greater understanding and knowledge (awareness) of each other as a means to overcome their fears and issues. Although this practical theological research acknowledges some limitations, it stands proud in contributing towards practical theology, post-apartheid research and narrative pastoral reflections that enables and inspires new research possibilities. The study concludes by suggesting a framework of acceptance (of one self), being vulnerable (creating trust through weakness and being aware), having significance (from ‘others’ or God’s perspective) and consistently contributing towards a racist free environment (as a result of the other three stages). Rather than the other way around starting with contribution (doing things only to be seen), working towards significance (of myself), avoiding vulnerability (I am not weak), ending with acceptance (from others for the time being).