There is a need to find a middle ground when it comes to the statue debate, argues Motsaathebe Serekoane and Francis Petersen. Emancipatory claim-making in the quest for spatial parityThe statue debates continue to be characterised by a polarised disposition. To shut down the right to speak or ask questions in the context of a public debate is unacceptable in a democratic society. Through these engagements, four options were put forward in relation to the MT Steyn statue:• The statue remains as it is,• The statue remains as it is, and the space around the statue is reconceptualised,• The statue is relocated to another position on campus, and• The statue is relocated off campusPart of the engagement was a heritage impact assessment (HIA) with a public participation process. Reimaging an inclusive public space faces many obstacles and challenges in engaging with existing spatial markers, differences, diversity, and cultural heterogeneity in creative and productive ways.

Source: News 24 July 07, 2020 21:00 UTC