SAJBD slams govt as Miss Universe row continues

The global pageant is set to be held in Israel in December.

The department announced on Sunday evening that it is withdrawing its support.

It comes amid calls from some quarters urging Miss SA Lalela Mswane to boycott the pageant in protest against Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians.

But the Jewish Board of Deputies believes boycotting the pageant is a missed opportunity for peacebuilding.

“Our Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture has been noticeably absent these past 18 months.  He has been largely silent about artists who appealed to him for help during the Covid lockdown,” says the organisation’s Karen Milner.

“His response to the closing down of national heritage treasures like the Apartheid Museum and Lilliesleaf Farm was appalling.  His disinterest in upholding the real issues facing our arts and cultural imperatives have been palpable.

“Yet when it comes to placating the radical anti-Israel lobby who demand that Miss South Africa, Lalela Mswane withdraw from the Miss Universe Pageant in Eilat, suddenly Minister Mthethwa finds his voice.”

Milner doesn’t believe Mthethwa's view represents the majority of South Africans.

“South Africa has diplomatic ties and extensive commercial trade relations with Israel.  It engages in events such as this one, such as hosting the Israeli Davis Cup team in 2018. The way we influence situations is to engage, not to withdraw.  

“The SAJBD believes that closing doors merely isolates us from contributing and any contribution we can make to finding peace in this country. What better opportunity for a South African to be part of an event where she can connect with 70 countries around the world, including many Arab countries, in sharing our story of dialogue and peace-building?”

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