22 July 2009

EMM Strategy Meeting @ Cane-Growers Hall at ML Sultan – Tuesday 28 July 2008 at 6pm

The sustained public outcry and opposition to the destruction of the iconic early morning market and the forced relocation of traders has been unprecedented in Durban in the democratic era.

Traders, street vendors, unions, civics, NGOS, architects, planners, academics and researchers have been united in condemning the destruction and displacement as this would adversely affect the livelihoods (about 8000 traders and street vendors, each having between 6 and 25 dependents), and the heritage and history of black communities in the city.

The 1860 Legacy Foundation is holding a public report-back meeting to address this issue on 28 July 2008 at 6pm at the Cane Growers Hall at the Durban University of Technology. The public and all interested parties are invited to attend. The meeting will assess progress relating to the task team appointed by KZN Premier Zweli Mkhezi (comprising MECs Mike Mabuyakhulu, W Mchunu and Bheki Cele) to address the impasse between vendors, traders and the Ethekwini Management; consider various legal alternatives to stop displacement and destruction; and discuss options to respond to the bold and public anti-Indian sentiments articulated by senior Ethekwini officials.

A positive outcome in opposing relocation has been the emergence of non-racial solidarity, a bane to those who demonstrate a callous disregard for the needs of the poor, and who are used to defending mediocrity and dividing with racial barbs. This meeting is supported by a coalition which includes the 1860 Legacy Foundation, the Early Morning Market Support Group, the Early Morning Market Traders Association, the Social Movements Indaba, COSATU and the SACP.

For further queries contact Rajish Lutchman 083 7779524
Professor Brij Maharaj Phone: 27 33 260 5273 (office), Cell: 083 776 7274