…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media. The City of Cape Town’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews, has been elected as the chairperson of the City’s Naming Committee.
The committee held its first meeting last week, marking the beginning of its work.
Purpose of the Naming Committee
The Naming Committee’s primary purpose is to evaluate and provide recommendations regarding the naming and renaming of streets, buildings, public open spaces, and other council-owned properties.
This includes addressing names that are considered offensive or inappropriate based on the City’s Naming Policy.
Alderman Andrews’ Vision for the Committee
During the inaugural meeting of the City of Cape Town Naming Committee, Alderman Andrews expressed his enthusiasm for the committee’s responsibilities and the journey it will embark upon to promote social cohesion and inclusivity through the consideration of naming and renaming applications.
Shaping Cape Town’s Narrative and Building a City of Hope
As the elected Chairperson of the Naming Committee, Alderman Andrews looks forward to collaborating with all committee members to strategically utilize the opportunity to shape Cape Town’s narrative and foster a City of Hope, where everyone feels welcome and included.
The committee discussed the foundational aspects of their strategic intent, emphasizing the importance of names as a source of pride, identity, and belonging.
Alderman Andrews encourages committee members to consider these elements during their deliberations and engage in public participation processes.
Balancing Complexity and Stimulating Cultural Diversity
Alderman Andrews acknowledges the complexity of the committee’s task, as they must navigate South Africa’s oppressive past.
However, he also highlights the stimulating opportunity to leverage names and language to enhance cultural and heritage diversity.
The committee is committed to establishing trust with residents, communities, and interest groups while consistently applying underlying principles when evaluating proposals.