Amends can be made between award-winning artist Makhadzi and those who belong to the hearing-impaired community, as efforts have been made to assist the singer in gaining more knowledge about sign language.
Following a recent clip in which the singer was accused of mocking members of the deaf community, the Neema Foundation for the Deaf has offered her and her team an invite to participate in a deaf and SA sign language masterclass.
The organisation is said to advocate for the rights and dignity of the deaf community.
Last week, the singer apologised for her offensive actions stating that it was not her intention to cause harm but added that she takes full accountability for her actions.
“If people are affected by a certain act, I must understand and accept that I was wrong. As someone who has been bullied, I understand how painful it is and that others didn’t take what I did well,” she said.
Following her apology TshisaLive reports that the Neema Foundation for the Deaf chairperson, Itumeleng Motaung responded to the apology.
“While we note media reports about her apology, the incident couldn’t have come at a worse time as we are commemorating #DeafAwarenessMonth. Makhadzi’s actions, unfortunately, appeared to mock an integral part of deaf identity.”
For him, this now represents an opportunity for growth and learning by offering her a complimentary SASL masterclass, to promote positive representation and connect with the deaf.
“We hope by extending this offer, Makhadzi will see it as an opportunity to use her platform to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, setting an example for others to foster greater understanding and respect for the deaf community.”
Also see: Makhadzi apologises for video offending deaf community – ‘I take accountability’
