These proceedings stem from a sign displayed outside the premises of the Respondent’s business, which reads: “LGBTQ not welcome at LaGardi – Save our children.”
This signage was aimed at excluding members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + (LGBTQ+), community from any services offered by his business. In addition, the respondent established and actively managed a WhatsApp group titled “Our Rights – anti LGBTQ+”, which contains statements and material that appear to incite harm against individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and related communities.
Following assessment of the compliant, the Commission has concluded that alleged actions by Mr. Dawood Lagardien hate speech and/or harassment as contemplated in terms of sections 10 and 11 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 2000 (PEPUDA or Equality Act).
A hearing is scheduled to take place in the East London High Court, sitting as an Equality Court. The hearing details are as follows:
- Date: 26th of May 2025
- Time: 09H30
- Venue: High Court East London, 4 Warren Road, Vincent, East London, 5217.
The Commission emphasises the critical importance of fostering a society rooted in non-discrimination, while actively promoting and safeguarding the right to equality for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation. The Commission is empowered in terms of section 13(3)(b) of the South African Human Rights Commission Act 40 of 2013 (SAHRC Act), to bring proceedings in a competent court or tribunal in its own name or on behalf of a person or a group or class of persons.
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