The Hate Speech Bill, which threatens to criminalise what it defines as hate speech and suggests jail sentences of up to eight years, is open for public comment until 1pm on May 12.
The bill defines hate speech very broadly and according to Freedom of Religion SA (FOR SA) is reminiscent of apartheid-era laws which saw the state censor and jail people. The religious sector and journalists are among those most at risk should the bill become law.
The bill was passed by the National Assembly of March 14 and is currently before the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). If the NCOP passes the bill, without amendments, it will be submitted to the president to be signed into law.
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FOR SA have prepared submission templates for individuals and organisatons which can be downloaded here. Submissions must be sent to HateCrimesBill9B-2018@parliament.gov.za
You can also view videos on the FOR SA website which explain the consequences of the bill.
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The bill defines hate speech very broadly and according to Freedom of Religion SA (FOR SA) is reminiscent of apartheid-era laws which saw the state censor and jail people. – definition is completely wrong. Hate is something from the heart and is expressed through emotions not through religion or occupation or group etc. I am against the bill.
This bill is dangerous and I disagree with it’s broad interpretation. It opens the door to offence taken by one individual to cry “hate speech” to another when no offence was intended. Even truth spoken out to someone who takes offence to such truth could cry “hate speech” when they are insecure about themselves..
I am against the Bill because Biblical Truth cannot be define as hate speech,because truth sets us free!