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Graphic: John McCann/M&G

A ‘self-hating’ black person speaks truth to power

Let us focus on internal struggles because black identity is harmed by those who stifle criticism and accountability

Take note: In Tutu Puoane’s music, time and pace is everything. Photo: Delwyn Verasamy

Tutu Puoane back on the South African stage after two years away

She may have left South Africa more than 20 years ago, but this jazz singer is still firmly rooted in her heritage

Zandile Tshabalala’s next exhibition, titled ‘In Search of My Mother’s Garden’, is at the Kunstmuseum Magdeburg in Germany. Photo: Delwyn Verasamy

Zandile Tshabalala exhibits for the first time in SA with BKhz Gallery

Pandering to the art world is no longer a prerequisite for success. Zandile Tshabalala has proved this in the last two years by exhibiting abroad before coming home

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Redefining ‘Madam’

Growing up, no black woman worth her salt would take kindly to being referred to as a “Madam”. The term Madam was reserved for white women who had a black domestic worker. Being…

A prolific vocalist, Moonga K’s discography takes in R&B, rock and pop. (Rod Taylor/www.rodtaylor.co.za)

Wild seed, wild solace: Moonga K finds his footing

Born in Zambia and raised in Botswana, the songwriter’s career is coming into full bloom in South Africa

If we believe that race and identity are socially constructed, then we need to be open to the idea that these constructs can change. Speaking to young people would be a good place to start. (John McCann/M&G)

Cape Town learners identify as coloured; the curriculum and teachers say they’re Biko black

The teenagers, who clearly understood that race is fluid – some even changed their identity – felt shunned. If race is socially constructed, they should not be ignored.

Helping hand: Nelisiwe Xaba’s performance lecture ‘Bang Bang Wo’ examines the baggage that comes with help. (	Stella Olivier/ The Centre For The Less Good Idea)

The cyclical politics of help

Black women and trans artists are worthy of support but it should not come with terms and restrictions

We will never survive as a nation or as humans if we put up racial barriers to isolate ourselves from one another, economically, socially and politically.

White noise: Black people will always struggle to breathe and be heard

As long as white people refuse to confront their racism they remain robbed of the opportunity to fully understand it and its many manifestations