Jewish funnyman's 'pro-Zionism' storm

KAAPSE comedian Nik Rabinowitz found himself at the centre of controversy this week when some parents at Rondebosch Boys High School found his appearance at a comedy show at the school not so funny because of his perceived pro Zionist and Israel stance.

In spite of the objections of parents, his show "Stroke of Genius" went ahead on Saturday, 31 August. The show was billed as a fundraising event. Some parents protested outside the school during the show.

According to parents, their concerns were downplayed by the school and the Western Cape Education Department as if only a handful were dissatisfied. 

One parent said: “The school will always frame it as though it’s just a small issue affecting a small group. But that’s not the case the parents who met with the principal were only a representation of the wider community. You can’t fit 200 people into the office.”

Several parents emphasised that their objections were humanitarian rather than political. “This Gaza issue is not political, it’s humanitarian. It’s genocide. That’s why there’s a call for education sessions with the children, so they understand what is happening in the world,” one parent explained.

“We’re not against the school raising funds, but they should be considerate in their choice. On his links to Zionism, Rabinowitz, who is Jewish said: “If people think Zionist means I support an authoritarian state that believes in Jewish supremacy and Palestinian oppression, then of course not. 

“I think that the current human tragedy in Gaza is horrifying and I long for it to stop. My deep wish is and always has been for liberty, peace and safety for both Palestinians and Israelis.”