By: ANG Reporter
Controversial musician Steve Hofmeyr has apologised for his comments about the LGBTIQ+ community after reaching a settlement with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
The SAHRC issued a letter of demand to Hofmeyr for his remarks that Disney’s agenda is to groom children to have sex with animals and the LGBTQIA+ community represents bestiality.
On Sunday, Hofmeyr took to his Facebook page, saying: “I made a comment about the LGBTQ+ community that caused a lot of upset in many circles.”
“I acknowledge that the comments, that led to the Equality Court proceedings, were hurtful to members of the LGBTQ+ community. I regret the hurt and offence caused as a result of the comments and apologise unconditionally to members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as any other member of public that was offended by my comments,” Hofmeyr said. In a statement on Monday the SAHRC said: “As part of the settlement Mr Hofmeyr has agreed to amongst others tender an unconditional apology for his comments, forming the subject of this litigation (the Impugned statements), while acknowledging that the statements he made were hurtful to members of the LGBTQ+ community, and members of the public who found his comments offensive.”
The commission added that the singer had also agreed to pay the amount of R100 000 as a settlement amount to OUT LGBT Well-being, which is a non-profit organization that works to ensure health, well-being, and human rights of the LBTIQ+ community. The commission sais as part of the settlement, Hofmeyr had agreed to attend a diversity and inclusivity conversation to be arranged by the SAHRC.
“The SAHRC welcomes this settlement as a positive step towards promoting diversity and protecting the rights of all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTIQ+.”
“We believe that this settlement reinforces the importance of cultivating tolerance, understanding and respect for all human beings and upholding the right to dignity for all regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other personal characteristic.”
“We urge all South Africans to be mindful of the dangers of using social media platforms to share or post comments which may be hurtful or in some cases harmful to others. We live in a diverse society where people have the right to express their opinions and beliefs, but this must be done in a manner that does not infringe on the rights of others.”
“We call on all South Africans to engage in respectful, positive-and constructive dialogue, which recognises and celebrates our differences. The SAHRC remains committed to advancing human rights in South Africa and will continue to take action against hurtful speech in all its forms.”
“We believe that this settlement serves as a reminder that the promotion and protection of human rights requires all of us to work together towards a more just and equitable society, where the rights of all are protected.”
