A Gqeberha High Court judge has ordered that a directions hearing be conducted into the case of a shop owner who is accused of discriminating against the LGBTQI+ community.
The hearing is a legal process to examine the direction that the matter is heading in the court.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) hauled Dawood Lagerdien, owner of La Gardi Plastics & Baking Requirements, to court over a discriminatory sign perched outside of his shop in Parkside.
The chalkboard sign that caused the uproar read: "LGBTQ Not Welcome at La Gardi. Save our children!!! Right of Admission Reserved!! (stet)"
In court documents, the SAHRC said Lagerdien has been unapologetic in his stance and has allegedly created a WhatsApp group to promote further hate.
The display picture used for the group allegedly reads: "Stop The Fags".
The SAHRC seeks an order affirming that Lagerdien's comments constitute hate speech, a public apology acknowledging the harm caused, and an interdict restraining him from engaging in similar conduct.
They further seek damages of R500 000, to be paid to an NGO that actively promotes equality.
Lagerdien had earlier told Algoa FM News that he did not have anything against gay people.
He explained that in June, two men in their 20s had entered his store and sexually fondled each other in full view of other patrons.
According to Lagerdien, an elderly woman had to close the eyes of a six-year-old boy.
He said when he asked the men to leave his store, they "mumbled" something about Pride Month and "LGBTQ".
A date for the directions hearing is yet to be determined.
