DR RAJENDRAN GOVENDER
The tragic killing of Imam Muhsin Hendricks has once again ignited fierce debates around freedom of expression, religious beliefs, and the dangers of intolerance. In the wake of his murder, disturbing rhetoric has emerged, with some individuals justifying or even celebrating the crime. This raises a critical question: why is hate speech considered a crime, and why must we prioritise tolerance in our society?
Hate speech is criminalised in many countries, including South Africa, to protect individuals and communities from discrimination, violence, and marginalisation.
The South African Constitution enshrines the right to freedom of expression but explicitly excludes hate speech, incitement to violence, and propaganda for war.
The Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (PEPUDA) further defines hate speech as any expression that is intended to be hurtful, harmful, or to incite hatred based on attributes such as race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation.
This legal framework acknowledges that words have consequences.
History is rife with examples where unchecked hate speech has led to violence, genocide, and systemic oppression. The Rwandan genocide, the Holocaust, and apartheid-era propaganda all illustrate how dehumanising rhetoric can set the stage for mass atrocities. South Africa, with its painful history of racial and social division, cannot afford to allow hate speech to flourish unchecked.
Beyond the legal ramifications, hate speech corrodes the moral fabric of society. It normalises bigotry, fosters division, and denies the dignity of marginalised groups.
In the case of Imam Hendricks, the hostility directed at him was not just about his sexual orientation but about deeply ingrained prejudices within certain sectors of society. These prejudices, left unchecked, can escalate into violence, as we have tragically witnessed.
Tolerance is not about suppressing beliefs or forcing uniformity; it is about coexisting with differences in a respectful and peaceful manner. No society is homogeneous - South Africa is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, religions, and identities. True democracy thrives on the ability to disagree respectfully, while upholding the fundamental rights of all individuals.
If we allow hate speech to persist, we create an environment where certain groups are dehumanised, making them more vulnerable to discrimination and violence.
Religious and community leaders wield significant influence over public discourse. Their words and actions can either promote inclusivity or perpetuate division. It is imperative that they lead by example, fostering a culture of compassion and mutual respect. Islam, like all major world religions, emphasises justice, mercy, and human dignity.
Imam Hendricks himself was an advocate for a more inclusive interpretation of faith, one that embraced rather than excluded.
Rather than using religion as a tool for exclusion, religious leaders should champion the inherent dignity of all human beings. They should actively counteract harmful narratives and challenge their congregations to embrace a broader, more accepting worldview. This does not mean forsaking religious convictions but rather understanding that faith should never be a justification for hate.
To combat hate speech and foster a more tolerant society, we must take a multi-faceted approach.
Authorities must take a firm stance against those who incite violence or propagate hate speech. Social media platforms should also be held accountable for moderating and removing harmful content.
Schools and institutions must incorporate programmes that teach young people about the dangers of discrimination and the value of a pluralistic society. This can be achieved through education and diversity training in the classroom.
Community engagement and dialogue is pivotal. Encouraging open conversations between different religious and social groups can help dismantle stereotypes and build mutual understanding.
Whether in politics, religion, or media, leaders must be accountable and held to high ethical standards. Those who perpetuate divisive rhetoric should face consequences for their words.
Each individual has a personal responsibility and has a role to play in countering hate speech. By challenging bigotry in our daily interactions and standing up for those targeted by discrimination, we contribute to a more just and peaceful society.
In conclusion, the murder of Imam Hendricks is not just a tragedy for the LGBTQ+ community but a wake-up call for all of us. Hate speech is not harmless - it has real, devastating consequences. By understanding why hate speech is a crime and recognising the value of tolerance, we take meaningful steps toward a society that truly upholds the ideals of justice, equality, and dignity for all.
Our collective silence in the face of hatred is complicity. It is time to speak out, educate, and ensure that South Africa remains a place where diversity is not just tolerated but embraced.
Dr Rajendran Govender is a social anthropologist and researcher, Commissioner - CRL Commission, and social cohesion advocate. The column is written in his personal capacity.
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.