CGE welcomes Equality Court judgment affirming the rights, dignity and equality of LGBTQIA+ persons in the LaGardien matter
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) welcomes the judgment handed down in the Gqeberha Equality Court in the La Gardien matter, which represents an important affirmation of the constitutional commitment to equality, dignity and protection against discrimination. The CGE was the second applicant in the matter involving Dawood LaGardien, having joined the proceedings in pursuit of justice and the protection of the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) persons.
For the CGE, this judgment is significant beyond the circumstances of the case. It reinforces the constitutional promise that every person is entitled to equal protection and equal benefit of the law, and that no person should be subjected to discrimination or diminished dignity because of who they are.
Our constitutional democracy requires us to hold two principles together: respect for diversity of belief and expression, and an equally firm commitment to equality, dignity and non-discrimination. The protection of one constitutional right cannot become a licence to undermine the rights of another person.
The CGE therefore calls for continued vigilance against discrimination, exclusion and intolerance directed at LGBTQIA+ persons and other groups whose rights and dignity remain vulnerable to prejudice.
The CGE remains committed to using its constitutional and statutory mandate to advance gender equality, challenge discriminatory practices and contribute towards a society in which every person can live with dignity, equality and respect.
Enquiries:
Javu Baloyi :
Spokesperson
Cell : 083 579 3306
Email : media@cge.org.za
Website : www.cge.org.za
X : @cge_za
WhatsApp Channel : Commission for Gender Equality
#GovZAUpdates
