Gay people in South Africa may well be in the minority, but I disagree with the Sowetan reader who says: "Not all of us are gay. We also pay TV licences to watch quality TV."

Gay people in South Africa may well be in the minority, but I disagree with the Sowetan reader who says: "Not all of us are gay. We also pay TV licences to watch quality TV."

I think shows like After Nine flighted on Thursday nights on SABC1 are meant to educate people like this individual. Just because I don't speak Afrikaans and Afrikaners are in the minority does not mean there must be fewer or no Afrikaans programmes.

Like any TV drama, the show does not represent all gay people. So to suggest that it be canned is simply not fair.

It is the responsibility of all parents to make sure that their children are exposed only to what is suitable for them. That is why the show has an age restriction.

After Nineis a challenge to stereotypes and it also challenges all parents to engage their children in discussing these issues.

Gay people are part of our society and it is not up to anyone to decide how they live their lives - as long as it does not violate anyone else. Intolerance will not get us anywhere.

I am doubtful however, that stereotypical thinking will be changed by just four episodes of guys hugging and kissing.

Matuba Mahlatjie, Tshwane