Parliament adds its voice to the all-round condemnation of violence against foreign nationals, racism and forms of intolerance in our country.
We affirm our commitment not only to African solidarity but also to our common humanity. The dignity and respect we should give to all people was shown to us many times over by particularly the people of Africa during our own struggle for non-racialism, non-sexism, freedom and human rights.
By falling prey to displaying the evils of xenophobia, racism, sexism and other intolerant behaviour we damage our own dignity as human beings.
Our first democratic, non-racial election in 1994 and our democratic Parliament’s adoption of our Constitution in 1996 is testimony of our preference for coming together, sharing our problems and trying to solve them through discussion and negotiation.
Parliament will continue to be at the forefront of voicing the rights of all people to equality, dignity and respect and to contribute to turning the tide on violence and feelings of xenophobia.
As part of efforts countrywide and from a variety of organisations, Parliament will be implementing  a programme against xenophobia, emerging racism and other forms of discrimination - which builds on the debate on 16 April in the National Assembly (NA) on the violence.
Members will be using next week to engage with issues of xenophobia and intolerance in their constituencies. Committee work which cannot be postponed will, however, continue.
The programme will also involve a Joint Sitting of the NA and National Council of Provinces to debate and celebrate Freedom Day. Freedom Day marks our first democratic, non-racial election held on 27 April 1994.
It will culminate in a Joint Sitting to celebrate Africa Day which marks the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963.
