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such a ‘controversial’ topic. Due to the fact that there have been new
appointments in various administrative positions — the dean of law, the
director of the Centre for Human Rights and the rector and vice chancellor
of the University of Pretoria has changed — it might be time for this issue to
be raised again, and for various forms of party-participation to take place.
The University is supposed to be an environment where students especially
can participate in provocative debate at non-violent and non-party-political
levels, as suggested by Modiri.
As a recommendation, we propose that the issue be brought to the floor
once again and that a more equitable decision be made regarding these
etchings. Having reflected on the views of Heyns and Van Marle five years
ago, it seems clear that an opportunity is needed through which the
university and faculty community can re-reflect on the events which began
with the display of the Victor etchings in the Centre. Our own democracy and
our egalitarian aspirations demand that we should be open to creating a
space where all the tensions can find a place for comfortable expression.
Therefore, a set time period should be put forward where all law
students as well as staff members are invited to an exhibition of the
controversial artworks. Viewers should be encouraged to visit the artworks
repeatedly in order for the finer details and true intention of the artist to
become internalised. Furthermore, Victor should be given the opportunity to
present a public lecture on her artworks, where she discusses her motives
and insight regarding Disasters of Peace. From here, different views may be
shared and the true egalitarian processes should follow.
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