Ndivhudzannyi “Makhadzi” Ralivhona, an award-winning musician, has issued an apology following criticism for unintentionally hurting the deaf population in her recent song video for Jealous Down.
TshisaLIVE, a South African sign language digital learning platform, requested for an apology, citing concern about what they regarded as insulting gestures toward the deaf population in the film.
Andile Ngidi, who appears in the music video, released a brief clip from it on TikTok, sparking the debate.
Makhadzi tries to use sign language humorously while translating Ngidi’s words. However, it was pointed out that the signs employed were erroneous and did not adhere to standard sign language syntax.
Sign language mentor Dieumercy Asan explained the issue, saying, “By doing the sign gestures, Makhadzi did not only mock our language or disrespect our culture, but she taught her million fans that ‘this is normal,’ which is unacceptable in deaf culture. Making a mockery of a language so rich in history and culture is making a mockery of its people and the struggles they have endured.”
With September being Deaf Awareness Month, Asan emphasised that Makhadzi could have used her influence to promote understanding of sign language and the deaf community. “If she wanted to include sign language in her video, she would have hired an interpreter… When doing any work related to deaf people or sign languages, it would be advisable to have a deaf person or an accredited hearing interpreter present,” Asan added.
In response, Makhadzi expressed deep regret for the hurt caused and promised to make amends. She revealed that she will issue a public apology next week and has asked for the clip to be removed from TikTok. “I had no intention to hurt anyone from the deaf community. As someone who has been bullied, I understand how painful it is, and I take full accountability. I will release a statement next week.”
