Miss SA Finalist Chidimma Adetshina Faces Xenophobic Attacks
Chidimma Adetshina, a finalist in the Miss South Africa 2023 pageant, has faced xenophobic attacks due to her Nigerian heritage. Born and raised in South Africa, Adetshina has been targeted on social media, with some users calling for her removal from the competition. Over 14,000 people signed an online petition supporting this stance.
Adetshina described the attacks as 'black-on-black hate', feeling singled out among the finalists. Melissa Nayimuli, a contestant in last year's pageant with Ugandan heritage, shared similar experiences. Opposition leader Julius Malema defended Adetshina, highlighting her South African birth and upbringing.
Social media users have expressed hostile sentiments, with one user stating, 'She better start packing and go home.' An online petition calling for her removal gained significant traction, with over 14,000 signatures. Sociologist Dr. Nombulelo Shange links this hostility to South Africa's history of racism and the apartheid system. Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has also expressed skepticism about Adetshina's participation in the competition.
Xenophobic sentiments in South Africa have led to occasional outbreaks of violence. The worst incident occurred in 2008, highlighting the deep-seated issues surrounding immigration and national identity.
Despite the backlash, Adetshina remains in the competition. Her case has sparked a conversation about xenophobia and racism in South Africa. As the pageant progresses, the country grapples with its historical and contemporary issues surrounding immigration and national identity.
