White persecution myth: What the data on jobs and land really says
There's no genocide and no persecution. There is, however, discrimination based on race in many sectors of our society.
The first group of Afrikaners from South Africa to arrive for resettlement in the US. Picture: Saul Loeb / AFP
There has been plenty of emotional comment from both sides on Donald Trump's crusade to save Afrikaners and other minorities in South Africa from genocide and land expropriation without compensation.
That's why it is interesting to consider a few facts – as opposed to opinions. Two which emerged this week should give pause for thought.
In the unemployment figures released yesterday for the first quarter of 2025, there were stark differences in the rate of joblessness across the various race groups.
Most noteworthy, though – especially given the current narrative that whites are being discriminated against in the work sector – is that white unemployment stands at 7.3%, while the rate for black Africans is 37%.
Those are facts, not opinions. Another fact, which we report today, is that not only have forced land expropriations not yet started – the hysterical claims of right-wingers notwithstanding – but the government has spent R217 million in 2024-25 in settling land claims mainly from black people.
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Land has been acquired for money and not by force and people deprived of their land during the years of colonialism and apartheid have been compensated.
Taken together, whether you like it or not, those two facts give the lie to the assertion that white people are being persecuted.
And therein lies the rub. No genocide, no persecution. But there is discrimination based on race in many sectors of our society.
That, along with fear of crime – which is at insane levels – is why many, and not just ethnic minorities – have left this country.
Those 49 people who arrived in Washington this week were looking for a better life for their kids. That's a powerful motivator.
Many see little hope for our broken country – and that's why we must fix it.
NOW READ: Afrikaners pawns on Trump's board
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