Colonialism demolition is not a smart idea

IT IS SURPRISING that Selvan Naidoo (the POST, March 11 — 15), who enjoys researching the colonial archives for information about the experiences of his indentured forebears, now advocates decolonisation of statues, names, symbols and memorials from Durban.

- DR DUNCAN DU BOIS Wentworth

Statues and monuments provide not only reference to times past. More importantly, they provide context to history and to the march of change. The measure of change depends on precedents. If those are erased or removed, then by what means can one point to progress and change? From what can the liberated claim to be liberated? A school report card like an accountant's review of income, profit and loss has no relevance unless it makes reference to previous results and performance.

However, if the removal of relics, names, monuments, etc, of the past is motivated by Colonialism Derangement Syndrome (CDS), the task at hand is monumental. Maybe start with demolishing the city hall. When every building of colonial note has been reduced to rubble, which should ease the unemployment situation, then move on to books and library trashing. Once the past has been vanquished and deodorised, those afflicted by CDS will be able to establish the new, untarnished history of whatever new name Durban is given.