Hermanus is currently going through a tough time, some of the residents facing poverty issues have started protests, the community has stepped up during this time.
Many of the labour force in Hermanus have been forced to down their tools and intimidated into staying home during protests. They are being intimidated and if they leave to go to work, risk having their belongings or houses destroyed by protesters. This has left gaps within the tourist town that could see the economy take a big knock
Whale season has started meaning that the town’s peak season is around the corner. During this time, it is all hands on deck but with many of the employees out of action, they needed to come up with a solution and fast. They started a Facebook group called “Hermanus has Heart” to manage the issue of short-staffed businesses.
“Michael Bayer had a great idea, he suggested that we try and start an initiative where we help each other to keep the economy going while Hermanus goes through these dark days. The idea is to keep businesses open and visitors feeling welcome. It is important that TOURISM doesn’t collapse which would have long-term implications. Restaurants and other hospitality businesses are feeling the effects of being short-staffed, and we thought it would be great if you are in such a position, that you let us know, and we’ll try, through this platform, to hook you up with a HELPER! In this way we hope to keep services active, tourists happy and the jobs alive, so that when things settle down we don’t have to rebuild completely.”
Just like that people started volunteering to fill the gaps at restaurants and guesthouses. Doing odd jobs that were going undone. All this to make sure that when their fellow community members came back, there would still be a booming industry and jobs.
People have been ironing, washing dogs, waitressing, cleaning, making beds, caring for the elderly and so much more!
The people on this group truly value the struggle being fought in Hermanus. They hope to find a resolution soon, not only to save their businesses but to protect the basic rights of every Hermanus citizen. Once again Michael Bayer came up with a solution to help out.
“I think we need to do something today. It is Madiba day, we have in excess of 12000 people in Zwelihle, who can’t express their freedom. I am proposing we hand a letter to the mayor asking for this freedom to be restored. Also that an expert in conflict resolution be brought in to address the situation?” – Michael Bayer
“The situation in Zwelihle, Hermanus, South Africa has reached a humanitarian crisis. The very basic rights of individuals, families and children are infringed upon by a minority of rogue self-appointed community leaders that holds a whole constituency of over 12 000 people hostage.”
This community is banding together to protect what they have and to stand up for those that do not have much. They are an example to us all! We are in awe of their dedication to their town.
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