In a recent racism scandal at Hank’s Olde Irish Pub that has taken the internet by storm, two white men are seen arguing over an alleged incident in which a black customer was denied entry on the basis of his race.
Also read: Watch: Video of racist incident at Cape Town pub goes viral
Hank’s Olde Irish Pub, a well-known spot in the city centre, is a trendy space that often hosts live shows and events.
Now, popular promoters that work with the pub are publicly distancing themselves from the establishment following the incident.
Concerts SA, a South African/Norwegian project that works with musicians, promoters and venues, has released a statement announcing the suspension of its involvement with events at Hank’s immediately.
“An incident at Hank’s Olde Irish Pub in Cape Town last week has given rise to serious allegations of racism against the venue and its owners,” the statement read.
“The Concerts SA project is committed to the South African Constitution and Bill of Rights and their protection for the human rights of all.”
They continued to say: “We strongly distance ourselves from any policies or practices that prejudice people based on race or any other grounds.”
The statement went on to confirm that until the allegations have been investigated, the group has suspended all support for concerts and events at the pub.
“To mitigate any impact on artists booked for Concert SA-supported events scheduled at Hank’s and on their audiences, these concerts will be shifted by the promoter to alternative spaces within the city wherever possible,” the statement explained.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and hope to be able to communicate any relevant developments to artists and audiences as quickly as possible.”
Also read: EFF responds to racism incident at Hank’s Olde Irish Pub
Christopher Logan, the man seen on the video talking to the owner, and Thabiso Danca, the man who was turned away, have both gone to the police to report the alleged attack and racist act.
Provincial police spokesperson Ndakhe Gwala has confirmed these charges.
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Picture: Ayanda Ndamane / African News Agency (ANA)