Sadtu members resort to personal insult at their march last week.
Angie's panties, really Sadtu?
I am aware of the fact that my children's behaviour models my own. I see it all the time, from when my son gets hurt and his sister "kisses it better" to the way they conduct themselves in general.
My children learn more from my conduct than from what I say to them. I am also aware that they not only model my behaviour, but also that of others who are a part of their lives. That is why, apart from loving our children and providing for their material needs as best as we can, leading by example is our responsibility.
Considering the amount of time children spend at school, there is no doubt that teachers play a huge role in shaping the way children conduct themselves. Teaching is a noble profession. It has the potential to plant seeds in a child's mind, seeds that could have an impact on the rest of their lives. It is under a teacher's care that children's minds are developed, opening up a world of possibilities.
As such, I was disgusted to see panties, claimed to be those of Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, displayed at the recent march of the South African Democratic Teachers Union.
For children watching this, what these teachers have planted is the idea that displaying underwear is a way of resolving conflict. Instead of conducting themselves in a manner befitting the status afforded to them by their profession, those teachers have showed our children that you should blatantly disrespect those you disagree with.
Is that really how we want our children to resolve conflict or treat those they disagree with?
It is often said that the pupils of today are ill-mannered, given credence by the way adults fail to chastise them. Adults must acknowledge their part in the conduct displayed by the young and question whether it is not their own behaviour that is being emulated by children.
Some may argue that not all who participated in the protest action were carrying panties, but it cannot be denied that by virtue of condoning it those who participated showed their approval of its use.
In a country so riddled with sexual violence, displaying panties raises many questions. Why are women's sexual parts, underwear, bodies and sex lives constantly brought up during comedy skits, arguments and other disagreements with women? If we are to raise a generation that respects women and their bodies, is the onus not on us to set the example – even in moments of conflict?
To my knowledge, Sadtu's mass action came about as a result of the refusal of the ministry to honour pay agreements struck in 2011.
With the cost of living being what it is, I understand the frustration of the teachers. But my empathy for their cause took a huge knock because of the way in which they went about publicising it.
I am aware that it takes a community to raise a child and that not everyone in my children's community will lead by example. But I expect those who will someday teach my children to conduct themselves in a manner befitting the respect I assume they will someday expect from my children and me.
Koketso Moeti is part of the Activate! Leadership and Public Innovation Network