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'Gays are not animals'

2008-07-24 12:22

Dear Editor,

Jon Qwelane is showing his true colours at last - that of a bigot, a hypocrite and a homophobe (in my humble opinion). His comments should be seen as verging on, if not actual, hate speech, by equating gays with animals.

Does he not understand a very simple legal requirement called consent"? An animal, as shown in the equally disgraceful sketch by Findlay, can not ever give its legal consent to marry, nor can a child or a person that is deemed by law to be unable to give consent due to, for instance, a mental condition.

A constitution which states that animals can marry is a legal impossibility. But that is quite beyond Mr Qwelane's grasp. Gay rights are part and parcel of the collective known as "human rights" - Mr Qwelane's shouting from the rooftops in his support for Jacob Zuma's human rights therefore makes him a hypocrite.

One can not be selective when demanding "human rights". I sincerely hope that his threat to the Human Rights Commission will not go unnoticed.

A charge should be laid immediately at the HRC and press ombudsman, and, seeing that he says he is 100% behind Zuma's defamation suit, a class action suit against him and his newspaper should be considered so that Mr Qwelane feels what it is like to be sued.

Coenie Kukkuk,
Brooklyn

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Juan 7/24/2008 12:29:03 PM
Well Coenie, our constitution also allowes Jon freedom of speech, and he has a RIGHT to voice his opinion on a disgusting sinfull lifestyle!

Crackerjackjack 7/24/2008 12:30:03 PM
Nothing will happen to Jon Q as he writes racist columns every week and gets away with it....Maybe if his name was Jon Smith he would be sued..or fired..or attacked...EISH

Crackerjackjack 7/24/2008 12:32:49 PM
I see that Jon Q is not on the list of columnists on the left side of the web page anymore(if you click on columnists). Maybe something has been done to him. Has he been fired (hopefully).

Jon hater 7/24/2008 12:35:45 PM
When is Jon going to be put in his place? freedom of speech does not mean you have a right to attack everyone and everything. News24 obviously likes his derragotory, racial,attention seeking - hate speech and above all useless comments? Jon, just shut up.

Sarah 7/24/2008 12:41:35 PM
I started a personal boycott on Mr. Quelane's columns some time ago. The man is (in my opinion) a racist and a bigot. I refuse to subject myself to the poison he spews. My choice.

debbie 7/24/2008 12:45:14 PM
Many years ago black people were thought to be lower than animals.

what 7/24/2008 12:47:02 PM
What do you expect from News24 and their esteemed journalists? This idiot can make any racist,sexist or discriminating remark and get away with it. John Q believes that anything or anyone who does not agree with him is against him. Fire the bastard! PS: Editors, I don't expect you to publish this. You filtered out all the other comments. Maybe fire yourselves!

White_African 7/24/2008 12:48:33 PM
Homosexuals hate having any rules or religion "shoved down their throats", but the rest of us must just have all this pro-gay agenda stuff pushed all day long. I'm also tired of the whole gay rights nonsense. Freedom of speech, deal with it ...

RTMP 7/24/2008 12:50:09 PM
Where is this column by Jon? I dont see it on the News24 site and as Crackerjackjack has pointed out his name is no longer on the Columnists page on the site

manicm 7/24/2008 12:50:11 PM
and his opinions keep confirming it.

Francois Roux 7/24/2008 12:51:08 PM
...I have long ago fallen out of love with you, and I have vowed never to read your senseless columns any more. Now I see that you have offended even more of your lovers, and I suspect that it is because of your propensity to have double standards in life. I only pray that you will on day open your eyes, and you will see that this world is there for everyone, including those who are different to you.

Ryan Matthews 7/24/2008 12:52:42 PM
Issues my friend, serious issues. Nothing wrong with homosexuality, just the twisted braindead morons like yourself who unfortunately breathe the same air as me. You are pathetic.

Ani 7/24/2008 12:54:17 PM
We have a limited freedom of speech, any derogatory remarks towards a person of certain culture, believe or race is against the law. By reading your view over Gay people I'd say you don't have a clue what Human Rights are. Nor do you care whom you hurt in the process. JQ doesn't know his limits, but will soon fall on his backside! (no pun intended)

Keifie 7/24/2008 12:54:49 PM
After reading a few of his columns I refuse to read any more. He seems to be a very angry man. In my opinion, he's not worth the dirt under my shoe.

CK 7/24/2008 12:55:20 PM
Well said Coennie. Juan- The constitution also protects against discrimination one being on the basis of sexual orientation. When were you elected God to judge? If any one should be ashamed it's you. Sarah - I'll be joining you in your boycott.

Devils_Advocate 7/24/2008 12:56:02 PM
JQ this JQ that, if his collumns offend you so much then stop reading his damn articles then. For heavens sake its like some of you people are forced into reading his stuff.BTW at least there is some base to his argument.Leviticus 18:22 (King James Version)Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.

Coenie K 7/24/2008 12:57:59 PM
http://www.mambaonline.com/article.asp?artid=2168

disgusted 7/24/2008 12:58:00 PM
Well said Ceonie. I agree that Jon should be suspended/fired and sued. The unfortunate implications of positive discrimination in our strange democracy are that if Jon had a white skin, he would have been fired already. His utterances go beyond human decency and I for one will not continue to support any of the publications that print his bigotted column, include News24

KIM 7/24/2008 1:00:26 PM
Jon is exactly the same as the men that made his subdued his race for all those years. he is repeating history, just with another topic. call yourself a forfather of supression Jon. i just hope one day you can awaken to pain you have caused and see the negative energy you filter into the world... i hope you see the light.

Stanley 7/24/2008 1:02:07 PM
I would actually like to congratulate MR Qwelane on once again coming with a wonderful column.Keep it up Bra John. Say it like it is

Sean 7/24/2008 1:02:28 PM
I am both ashamed and appalled at this article and find the cartoon deeply offensive. A few weeks ago we saw South Africans unite against the xenophobic attacks that were happening in this country, because that was wrong, and this article should also be rated up there on the scale of gross human atrocities. Jon Qwelane has no right - human or constitutional - (and don't you dare use freedom of speech as a cover for your obvious homophobia) to discriminate, slander and degrade members of society, of which he clearly knows little or nothing about, which is typical of homophobes. Yes, we - the gay community - might be a minority, but nonetheless an integral part of a free, fair and equal society that realises that there is unity in our diversity. The very fact that he feels it is his "right" to degrade another person because of their sexual orientation is shocking and saddening especially for those who voted for a democratic South Africa. I was under the impression that by voting for a democracy, I was permitted to embrace all I was created to be, with the knowledge that we would all become one united nation striving for a common goal - equality and tolerance for all peoples and nationalities. Jon Qwelane seems to not embrace these ideals of many past apartheid leaders and stalwarts, and certainly not the current government. His comments, as far as I am concerned, are another form of veiled racism - singling out a group of people due to fear and lack of knowledge - just like the National Party did in the apartheid days. He might not have to "apologise" for what he said - as gay people recognise his democratic rights (unlike Jon Qwelane) - but be assured that Liberated South Africans will not hold his opinions and narrow mindedness in high regard in the future. A word to the newspaper: "Whatever happened to reporting the truth - free of prejudices and free of discrimination?" This one mans opinion does not promote the general vision or dream that tolerant South Africans have for this country. Shame on you for publishing this without doing the proper research (clinical and psychological) or realising the implications of your actions. The Sunday Sun clearly , by publishing this article, does not share the same ideals and dreams of people who want to see all from every corner of South Africa embracing one another in acceptance and understanding. All this article has done is caused division and has fuelled more hate. The only thing Jon Qwelane is missing in his picture is a white gown, a white pointed hat and a burning cross.

Cebbie 7/24/2008 1:03:45 PM
In the bible it also says thy shall not judge !! You have a better chance of going to hell than anybody else.Sarah i'm with you on the boycott.I f the shoe was on the other foot how would you like to be treated ? Devils_advocate whatever

Joe 7/24/2008 1:05:43 PM
Jon Qwelane?s articles are ill-disciplined, disrespectful, irresponsible, with the intent to create disharmony. It is time that you as NEWS 24, start being accountable for his work.

Concerned 7/24/2008 1:05:54 PM
Personally Iam an atheist, therefore I don't care what the gay people say or their rights advocate. I don't care about Jon Qwelane either. South Africa belongs to all who live in it. Despite our colour differences and different backgrounds, I challenge the readers to learn to live in harmony with others. Bitching and screaming and threatening each other will get us no where. It will only destroy the gains we have made since the dawn of democracy. JQ, gay & lesbian share the same breath with us.

Natasha 7/24/2008 1:07:27 PM
As I have said on Facebook it is amazing how quick he forgets what he went through as a black man in the apartheid error, the discrimination and abuse yet now with his 'freedom of speech' he is quick to discriminate against us and our lifestyle .. lesson not learnt perhaps what human rights are?

Excalibur 7/24/2008 1:08:24 PM
And lost his job for a column which was less insulting and did not directly violate the provisions of the constitution. Relating homosexuality to bestiality is hate speech, finis and klaar. But there will be no sanction because Qwelane has a whole pack of race cards and plays them every time his mouth gets him into trouble. Who says it has to be fair?

VinnyTheSaffer 7/24/2008 1:08:29 PM
I agree with Sarah and Keifie and Francois. I too have boycotted Jon Q's column for the last 6 months, and will not read his drivel any more. His viewpoint is confrontational and meant to enrage. I do support the view that homosexuality is a sinful lifestyle, though...gay rights are thrust upon us and we are asked to acknowledge them and accept/understand them. Why is that? It's because the act is unnatural, and has to be justified by the participants as "normal"...

NAZ 7/24/2008 1:09:59 PM
It seems like my previous comment did not come through,Coenie is offended by what JQ has to say,but does any of the homosexual community cares how GOD is offended,our scriptures clearly say that some people can become higher than angels or LOWER THAN ANIMALS,why lower?because at least animals obey their masters even if it be at peril of losing it's own life but some people like the sodomites dont obey GOD's orders who created animals to be utilised in the service of mankind.

Cleft stick, cleft tongue... 7/24/2008 1:11:35 PM
...hard to be objective on this one, given my own leanings. I am appalled at the bigotry against us gays: in spite of an allegedly progressive constitution, old prejudices die hard. At Unisa where I work, discrimination (on basis of race, sexual bias) is (theoretically) prohibited, but we still get the short end of the stick (forgive the pun). If, like me, you are gay and an NGK minister, you have a raw deal: my parishioners always think I'm sniffing bicycle seats... See my study guides.

Gryffoyn 7/24/2008 1:11:37 PM
I hate blaring on about having rights as a gay person, but if they are infringed upon I will stand up for them. As do all other groups when attacks are made especially on Constitutional infringements which legaly protects all under it. If noone protect laws as set out a country of lawlessness will be abound... notes on other African Countries must be made. The Law is the law.

Cobus Fourie 7/24/2008 1:12:13 PM
freedom of speech doesn't mean you may write such morally reprehensible material

Werner 7/24/2008 1:14:12 PM
While I might not agree with this lifestyle, I have no right to judge. You have as many a right as I as per our constitution. As for JQ, I need a stronger word than hate to describe how I feel about you.

Jann 7/24/2008 1:15:31 PM
Why is homosexuality such a big issue? It's between consenting adults so let them get on with it. If anyone wants to speak out about sexual preferences, why don't they pick on paedophiles who prey on youngsters. Now they are disgusting!

theDriver 7/24/2008 1:17:27 PM
I don get it, is it an attack on Jon or homophobia. Juan you are contradicting yourself, you want other people's rights to be respected while on the other hand you want to deprive an individual of his right to freedom of speech?. Homophobia is sick and you are right by speaking against it but dont sensetionalise your article by mentioning Jon. The last time I checked the bible was the worst when it comes to perpetuating homophobia & maybe that's where you should direct your tirade...

Coenie K 7/24/2008 1:21:46 PM
If you want the actual article, I will mail it to you - there is no link as News24 did not publish it, only .pdf of newspaper page - send me a request to wbvd@law.co.za and I will gladly forward it. Just remember people, if rights entrenched in the constitution, are ignored, be it gay rights or whatever, then all other rights are in danger. Your property rights to your home or farm (remember his friend Mugabe), your rights to practice your religion, your rights to speak your language etc. etc

flim 7/24/2008 1:22:00 PM
Boycotting the jerk's columns does nothing. What's needed is a full-scale boycott of media24's publications until such time as they apologise and disassociate themselves from the hate speech they should never have printed. You'll find the list of publications they own here: www.media24.com/organogram.aspx?i_BusinessUnitID=1&lang=Eng I won't hold my breath, but I will hold my wallet.

DoesntMakeSense 7/24/2008 1:22:27 PM
After years of showing his hate and anger at Whites, Afrikaners and Blacks that don't agree with him, nothing gets done to him. One attack on the gay and lesbian community and he is totally removed from News24? His next column (wherever it would be) would probably be called: Kill a Boer but do not dare insult a homosexual.

Zoo Keeper 7/24/2008 1:27:40 PM
Regardless of what a reader may think of the likes of JQ's or David Bullard's opinions they must be allowed to express them. Censorship and self-censorship at the altar of political correctness is the real danger here. Win the JQs and Bullards over with your arguments, not your condemnations. And you might grow a chin while you're at it

Eon 7/24/2008 1:28:24 PM
In light of all the xenophobia that happened a few weeks ago, and all the day-to-day attacks on gays and lesbians (mostly in townships) that go unnoticed, I really think his article was tasteless and offensive. He makes it sound ok to attack the GLBT members of our communities. Not what this country needs.

Bokamoso 7/24/2008 1:28:57 PM
Hands Off on JQ,You guys claim of freedom of speech but it obvious that you don't have clue what freedom of speech means.i suggest you do something better with your life and stop whinning.he does have a point and you guys know it,truth hurts

tshepo 7/24/2008 1:32:12 PM
have a right to do whatever they want, just like everyone else. Its their right.

Judy 7/24/2008 1:32:35 PM
Since you have chosen to take this excerpt literally...Technically, men cannot lie with men as with women because men are anatomically different to women. Therefore for a man to have intercourse with another man as he would have with a woman is anatomically impossible and the statement is not valid.

Nikki Botha 7/24/2008 1:33:49 PM
John is known as a trouble maker and how Media 24 can still pay him AND publish his work is above and beyond me. The question is - are you going to allow him to get away with it? Or is someone finally going to have the guts to go to the Human Rights Commission and have this man up for hate speech? You also forgot the word racist. And lastly - I wouldn't mind being equated to an animal. It is the greatest compliment anyone could ever give me. Animals know how to love unconditionally.

Greg 7/24/2008 1:34:56 PM
an investigation is pending with the HRC. I assume Jon takes backseat until investigation over, and the article has been removed off the site, along with JQ. But i don't think news24 will confirm or deny or post this. ha. bye-bye jon. doos.

thabo 7/24/2008 1:36:28 PM
To answer your question - early in the morning i went there myself looking for this article.his name was there but not the article. so his name has been removed recently. so news24 has taken a very pricipled stand here. first they refused to publish that drivel and now they have removed his name altogether even though that article never was featured by news24.

Homophobe_Hater 7/24/2008 1:37:13 PM
To "NAZ": If you have a problem with homosexuality in terms of scripture, then please tell me this: Does scripture give you the right to judge others, REGARDLESS of their sexuality? Does scripture give you the right to interpret God's word? Last time I checked, the answer to both thoses questions is NO. There is no outright statement (that has NOT been interpreted) in the Bible that condemns homosexuality. Tell me, though, "NAZ", I suppose you have committed no sins at all? I suppose you are a perfect little angel, and have been your whole life? I suppose that you never had sex before marriage, you never got divorced, you have never stolen anything, lied about anything, or coveted anything someone else owns? Just BY THE WAY, the only statements in the Bible which remotely tackle the issue of homosexuality appear in the same testament where cutting your hair or eating shellfish is condemned as worse than being Gay. So, I take it that you have never even cut your hair? Before you use scripture as something to back you up, I suggest you look at yourself in the mirror - take a good long look at your HOMOPHOBIC self and realise that you are the sinner here for hating Gay people. Get it in your head - if you are hetrosexual, then you have no idea what it is like to be Gay. GOD made Gay people that way - there is nothing you can do about it! Or just perhaps, you are a closet case yourself? Reply to: JQ MIGHT HAVE A POINT 24/07/2008 13:09 It seems like my previous comment did not come through,Coenie is offended by what JQ has to say,but does any of the homosexual community cares how GOD is offended,our scriptures clearly say that some people can become higher than angels or LOWER THAN ANIMALS,why lower?because at least animals obey their masters even if it be at peril of losing it's own life but some people like the sodomites dont obey GOD's orders who created animals to be utilised in the service of mankind. - NAZ

Zoo Keeper 7/24/2008 1:45:03 PM
I defended DB's right to speak just as I will JQ's, even if it hurts. Us Saffa's need to grow up and harden up.

Junglejim 7/24/2008 1:46:01 PM
A copy of the actual article can be found here: http://www.mambaonline.com/images/features/sundaysun_small.pdf

Maanda 7/24/2008 1:46:55 PM
Sometime anger can lead you to hate speech, and such should also be considered. I personally feel that people who do not accept these "Barbaric action? of Gay and lesbian? should rather not criticize them but pray for them, and it does not only need prayer but prayer and fasting. However we should not call them animals and stuff. I also don?t understand all these Gay and lesbian thing especially in our society, I think is the matter of popularity.

tshepo 7/24/2008 1:48:39 PM
but a constitutional one, so people must stop using their gods "words" as fact. Do it in church.

Cynicus 7/24/2008 1:49:36 PM
...all this infighting and vitriol in response to the rantings of a bigot!

[1] Ignore JQ's column if you don't like it!
[2] Whatever happened to tolerance?I'm not gay ...but I have gay friends.We don't judge each other-we just get on with life.
[3] To those who presume to have "god" on their side-I respect your belief, though I don't share it.Perhaps we should debate using common terms?

It seems that "tolerance" is a foreign concept here!

Tracey 7/24/2008 1:50:05 PM
The issue is the fact that a mainstream newspaper saw fit to publish content which is far more derogatory in its wording than David Bullard's column was towards black people. In this day and age of violence against LGBT people, this is as bad as those who incited the xenophobia by circulating leaflets encouraging 'death to the Kwerekwere'. And the newspaper is an accomplice in the incitement of hatred against gay people.

theDriver 7/24/2008 1:52:54 PM
the scriptures are homophobic/racist/chauvinistic so it really dont matter what they say. When is everbody going to learn that you cannot impose your opinions on others?.

Cobus Fourie 7/24/2008 1:57:33 PM
why was such morally reprehensible material published? - Cobus

Glenn 7/24/2008 2:01:43 PM
Jon Qwelane's latest offering is unadulterated hate speech but he's just an attention-seeking fart. The true culprits are the editors of publications that provide him with a platform to spew his twisted views. They - the editors - and their employers need to be taken to task.

James 7/24/2008 2:04:08 PM
As a psychologist I find Qwelane's comments irresponsible and an extreme expression of prejudice which seeks to demean and dehumanise gay people because of their sexual orientation. In terms of S.A.'s constitution, this is equates to a hate crime. Don't underestimate the potential for emotional damage to homosexual people by such a reckless, inflammatory and very public projection of Jon' own emotional insecurity and self loathing. Even many years of psychotherapy may not fix that.

Ivan 7/24/2008 2:09:25 PM
I disliked gays from a biblical view point till my daughter came out.I then realised by seeing her and her friends what wonderful people the gay community was, boy was I wrong. God will judge all mankind, he alone will decide what is to happen to you. As mankind we must leave alone those who mean us no harm and fight real issues.

Karendb 7/24/2008 2:10:10 PM
In your previous post you are full of hateful opinions which you saw fit to impose on all of us and then in the next one you wonder when everybody will learn that they cannot impose their opinions on others!! Was this a serious comment or were you demonstrating hypocrisy?

Rian 7/24/2008 2:12:26 PM
It also mentions in Leviticus the women who are menstating need to be separated from society for 7 days. It also mentions that you should not eat shell fish and that you should not mix wool and cotton. Maybe you should read all of it and work out how the hell you will apply it to modern life before you go quoting your favorite parts that suit your homophobia.

Wayne 7/24/2008 2:12:51 PM
Freedom of Speech is one thing, but Hate Speech is a beast of a different colour(Pun intended) After reading Jon's column (with its many factual inaccuracies), it is clear that it amounts to pure, unintelligent hate speech. His attack on our Constitution just highlights his idiocy-It's like shooting oneself in the foot. While respecting other people's views, I'll not tolerate people who incite violence in our country. It's time we kick racist, sexist, homophobic Jon's soapbox out from under him!

Cape Town Pride 7/24/2008 2:14:43 PM
A protest will take place outside the offices of Media24, Heerenchract Street, between 1pm and 2pm, on Fridat 25 July. This has been organised by Cape Town PRIDE and everyone is welcome.

SPEEDY 7/24/2008 2:14:47 PM
I am a straight christian man as well as I have many gay friends. Who are some of the nicest people in SA and would probably be idiots if they were straight. I may not like their lifestyle but it is their lifestyle at the end of the day. I respect who they are and what they do. We should not judge only God can judge. JON Q is a arrogant egotesticle(spelling intended) doos. Let us see if this comment gets posted by the protectors of Jon Q

Liz 7/24/2008 2:16:49 PM
I am a heterosexual christian and support gay and lesbian rights. I am embarassed by christians that use God and the bible to judge and hurt other people to further their own shallow minded agendas. God is so much bigger than this. You dont lead people to God by condemning and hating them. God doesnt force people to do anything, so why should we?

Martin 7/24/2008 2:21:38 PM
I know that there are quite a few homosexuals working for the News24 group. I sincerely hope they will speak to management and voice their dissatisfaction with colleague Qwelane's ignorance about homosexuality. educate him on the boundaries between "free speech" and "hate speech" and teach him to use the internet to check his facts about "men" giving birth, and a little about the facts behind the origin of the Anglican church. Get your facts straight before you judge others!!!

Kal-El 7/24/2008 2:23:42 PM
Christianity preaches nothing less than love and acceptance for all but Christians are more hateful towards gay people than atheists. Atheists are in general much more tolerant than Christians to most things. The truth is that many Christians hate all that is different to them and hide behind their religion to express this hate in a justified way. And they always bring in the bible. But the bible preaches most importantly love. I have distance myself from this religion a long time ago.

Michael Mackinnon 7/24/2008 2:26:05 PM
I think it is about time Media24 took corrective action against Jon. He is a racist and homophobe of note. I will not support any Media24 publication till the correct and fair action has been taken against Jon. Coenie I think you need to compile a list of all Media24 publications so that we know what not to purchase.

Petunia Peach 7/24/2008 2:26:12 PM
I never realised the power of the Internet and Pink POWA. Its a STONEWALL revival in SA. I feel sorry for those who appose... Veg voort my drolletjies!

SM 7/24/2008 2:31:57 PM
I printed and read JQ's article. There is a lot of misreprentation of the article here. It goes around the constitution and not gays as such. JQ was not comparing gays to animals but merely stated that the constitution 'allows' it. I am certainly not a JQ fan but, never read his columns, but he some serious issues as well. He slams holding hands with the same sex, but says nothing of TM and BM holding hands in public (just a observation). Why cant Saffas try and understand each other peacefully?

Karen 7/24/2008 2:32:10 PM
He ends his article by saying that he prays for politicians with their heads screwed on right and had the guts to rewrite the constitution to excise homosexuality. I wonder how much he would be praying if somebody rewrote the constitution to excise black people? ...or controversial journalists? What if his prayers were misunderstood by his god and it was idiots that were excised instead?

Bokamoso 7/24/2008 2:32:47 PM
what is with this double standards in this forum,months back you guys we quickly to ponit it out that Bullard artice was just a freedom of speech article and you are now saying what JQ Wrote was hate speech,i have always maintained that everyone is free to write what they wants after all it is their opinion and if you don't like, well thats tough and maybe you should consider writting ur own articles and not read his.Read what you like, period.

EB 7/24/2008 2:36:11 PM
I never agree with Jon. This time I do.

DoesMakeSense 7/24/2008 2:41:33 PM
Copy and paste, the web developers of News24 doesn't know how to put business logic in the backend and try to use stupid javascript to stop you at 500 characters on the UI. Long live Ctrl-C and Ctrl-V. And don't forget our friend Ctrl-Z.

Gavin 7/24/2008 2:42:52 PM
My post has not even been loaded - I think News24 is censoring comments so they dont look bad!

Cynicus 7/24/2008 2:46:28 PM
Perhaps you're right. I tried re-reading JQ's less-than-eloquent rant several times. Yes, you can interpret it in different ways.

BUT

..the difference between journalism and poetry is simple: Poetry is ALL about interpretation and experiential transfer. Journalism is about clarity of statement, whatever that statement may be. JQ's piece fails to distinguish itself from literary expression/poetry. Journalism it ain't.

Harrison Magalefa 7/24/2008 2:52:53 PM
I think its about time for JQ to go. It was right that Mr Bullard was given sack for making racism statement. In same way, JQ must get sack for uncalled attack on the gay sector. Goodbye JQ!

Terri 7/24/2008 2:56:30 PM
As per our government on Freedom of speech, it says; 16. Freedom of expression 1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, which includes a. freedom of the press and other media; b. freedom to receive or impart information or ideas; c. freedom of artistic creativity; and d. academic freedom and freedom of scientific research. 2. The right in subsection (1) does not extend to a. propaganda for war; b. incitement of imminent violence; or c. advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion, and that constitutes incitement to cause harm

Terri 7/24/2008 2:59:01 PM
Before you go throwing around "Freedom of speech" know your subject! The constitution doesn't allow for advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion, and that constitutes incitement to cause harm... This is outrageous! I am appalled and disappointent!

Concerned 7/24/2008 3:00:17 PM
Couldn't agree more with you. I like the virtues of christianity but not the christians. They are so pathetic in perpetuating their hypocrisy. They put a religious face to everything yet they are the evil doers. I am glad I am not alone.

Ryan 7/24/2008 3:05:58 PM
As can be seen from the comments above, Jon draws a crowd by writing articles and making statements that upset, irritate and anger people. Problem is that he is running low on material and is now bordering on hate speech to gather the hits to satisfy the necessity for his column.

StillDoesntMakeSense 7/24/2008 3:09:55 PM
You call yourself a Christian and then you use language like that? (tic). In the same breath everyone says don't judge people, but then they judge Jon. Very sensible. BTW, I don't agree with Jon most of the time. From the article I can't see how homosexuals get so upset if he says that they have their sexual preference and so does people who practice bestiality. At the end of the day people have their preferences. I have my own. I don?t care what others do anymore. I don?t have to answer for anyone except for myself. But people shouldn?t be so sensitive to remarks that are thrown their way. Any minority group will be subject to some attacks. They call it life. And like Bill Gates said, life is tough, get used to it.

Lara 7/24/2008 3:14:24 PM
Thanks for a balanced non-hysterical response to that old hysteric Jon Quelera(cholera). It's time people realise that gay people are an integral part of society and just let it be. If Juan & co. has to be saved by a gay doctor, will they refuse treatment? You should as it would be soooo hypocritical to be assisted in any way by gay people and condemn them.

Dan 7/24/2008 3:15:23 PM
You are deliberately trying to justify or excuse homosexuality by attacking the principles of humanity. The Bible is clear on it that NO man is without sin. This however does not justify the disgusting and sinful nature of homosexuality. My sins do not justify or pardon you your sins and vice versa. Each one of us sinners are responsible for their own sins. And you are quite right we are not to judge anyone because that right belongs to God only. He will judge, forgive and condemn as He pleases.

Thobile Ndungane 7/24/2008 3:16:05 PM
Let me state that John Qwelane is attention seeking and he has no limit in attracting attention to himself.He treats NEWS24 readers with disdain and arrogance. he does not deserve to be responded to. I stopped long time ago to read his NEGATIVE junk and for all I care he can go to hell. He has lost all journalistic values and perspective.

marc 7/24/2008 3:22:12 PM
JQ has achieved what he set out to do i am sure judging by the endless posts to his article. I never liked the bigoted fake ever and i say good riddance to bad rubbish.

Coenie K 7/24/2008 3:30:08 PM
JQ has several historical facts wrong - over and above what was mentioed here already, he also said Anne Boleyn was Henry VIII's borther's widow. Not. It was Catherine of Aragon. How can you trust a men who has all his facts wrong? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_of_Aragon#Princess_of_Wales

Mzekezeke 7/24/2008 3:30:39 PM
This article does not compare gays with bestiality. What JQ is illustrating is that if the constitution allows same sex marriages it can as well allow marriage between humans & animals. Although he sounds homophobic, there's no evidence of hate speech. I get the impression that some people who responded above did not actually read the article, but based their objections to previous JQ articles - which is unfortunate.

Proudly Homo 7/24/2008 3:36:13 PM
As a proudly lesbian woman I want to critisize Jon and all the gay haters in this column for judging us.I know that God loves me just the way I am and I still go to church.Most people accept this why can't we marry and have all the rights that the black and white heterosexual now have? So boo hoo to you I will get everyting you have and be happy

CB 7/24/2008 3:41:09 PM
Karen, the constitution rewritten to excise black people? What in tarnation is this? Why generelize. I had respect for you until now. You are a shameless fool of non description. Maybe we should say ?the constitution rewritten to excise white fools like you? Move out of African you damn white something.

JanWielieWalie 7/24/2008 3:47:38 PM
16. Freedom of expression 1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, which includes a. freedom of the press and other media; b. freedom to receive or impart information or ideas; c. freedom of artistic creativity; and d. academic freedom and freedom of scientific research. 2. The right in subsection (1) does not extend to a. propaganda for war; b. incitement of imminent violence; or c. advocacy of hatred that is based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion, and that constitutes incitement to cause harm. There is no mention of hatred based on sexual preference. Maybe Jon is right, this needs to be changed?

CB 7/24/2008 3:54:51 PM
It is so amazing how the JQ haters are always trying to impose such hate on others. I mean if you hate JQ why read his articles in the first place and secondly why try to lure those who do not have a problem with the man into your hate entanglement. It is so simple stop reading his posts then you wont get hurt.

Boring 7/24/2008 3:55:16 PM
Right you are Gavin, they are sensoring comments as mine has also not been posted. Think I must have hit a nerve with the "Press" and "Journolists"........ "They" are not capable of dealing with critisism....

L 7/24/2008 3:55:37 PM
What an unintelligent thing to ask about favoritism. Do you really think that these people read through all these posts and pick their best ones? They are scanned by software for key words etc. which may be offensive. First come first served. How would it work anyway..some dude sits in the background and goes, ooh, I like this guy's post and then he magically connects to the guy's computer and allows his post to ramble on for longer? Do you think he pushes a special button? Think! Can you?

Kevin Cadman 7/24/2008 4:00:51 PM
I haven't seen the column, so I can't comment accurately. I think Jon is an idiot and relies on sensationalism to increase his readership. Having said that, I'll also say that all of you have fallen into his 'trap' absolutely perfectly. He's now made a name for himself (where before he was only known amongst Journos) in the mainstream; you'll all follow his every move simply waiting for his next article (wherever it may be). I do however believe in freedom of speech; I don't understand why people get so uptight about what is said about whatever 'denomination' they align themselves with. You think I'm a dumb white? That's fine! Hetrosexual? Fine! Hell, insult my ancestors, my family, or whoever you so desire and I'll just laugh it off. South Africans are just too damn sensitive. Start focusing on important matters rather than giving a pseudo-intellectual all the attention he craves.

MakesAllTheSense 7/24/2008 4:04:30 PM
Yes they do censor it. I posted one comment 5 times and it was not published. Then I changed it to sound more like I'm agreeing that he has overstepped freedom of speech and they publish it. L, he wanted to know why some people can post messages that are bigger than 500 characters. "Favouritism" was TIC.

Wessel van den Berg 7/24/2008 4:54:11 PM
So instead of being positive by saying that Hate never works like I did in previous censored comments - I should rant and shout and be as big of a racist, bigamist excuse for a human being as our dearly departed JQ - Shame on you guys for choosing the truth as you see it and not as it is.

Mixael de Kock 7/24/2008 5:31:17 PM
Is it possible that a serious journalist can proclaim such disdain for the Human Right's Committee? Qwelane's views are typical of those held by the uninformed. What is more alarming than his hate speech is his apparent disregard for the constitution - a constitution that bestowed incredible freedoms on Mr Qwelane is now the constitution that he is so eager to have changed!

Geo Pienaar 7/24/2008 7:16:15 PM
I first learnt about this at about 5 this afternoon, when my Facebook inbox was inundated with requests "boycot... bla... bla... So I have taken some time to read the articles, the comments posted on various websites, and frankly, what I can see that he has achieved is a major devide within the country. Yes, we are in the media alot, on TV, radio, its not by choice.. We are in demand... If this makes sense.

GailC 7/24/2008 8:02:55 PM
There are many commandments and laws in religious books condemning homosexuality. All these books were written by heterosexual men afraid that men created differently to themselves would threaten their hold over women. Why have men chosen to do away with all the other laws except homosexuality to this day? Adultery, divorce, oaths, lust, greed? All sins but ignored by MEN. God made gays and lesbians different so straight men could show maturity and compassion to those created different to them.

GailC 7/24/2008 8:10:51 PM
Gay Pride came about as a result of a group of Gay people who had had enough of persecution taking a stand against violence shown towards GLBT in America. When last did you hear of gay men beating up heterosexuals, it happens often the other way round hetero's hating gays and even putting them to death. Anal sex is not the sole preserve of gay men and being gay is not a choice. Who wants to be reviled and different? Straight proud mom of gay son and 2 straight.

DW 7/24/2008 11:29:23 PM
If homosexuality is "against the natural order of things", why does God create a male sea horse which gives birth to the babies, bisexual flowers- think back to biology class and snails which mate with themselves( ie one snail with both sexual reproductive organs? to reproduce? It should be against "natural order" to get fat then too, as it looks like Jon is. Our "ancestors" were quite fit and well built. I just don't know.... What does anyone else think?

Regan Waters 7/25/2008 6:50:08 AM
I haven't read the article-but judging from the way everyone is up in arms, it must have been quite a shocker. What I want to know is-why doesn't he just get fired like David Bullard was for writing an article that upset a lot of people ?

SB 7/25/2008 7:18:41 AM
One man's meat is another man's poison - live and let live. Must say that I will miss JQ columns. I most often don't agree with him but enjoy the comments and debating...freedom of speech.

KimPossible 7/25/2008 8:10:38 AM
Absolutely spot on! How does homosexuality hurt anyone? Peadophilia is what IDIOTS like Jon should be writing about- it is something all media should be exposing much more for the evil it is and the permanent pain and damage it causes. geta LIFE JQ!

Nico 7/25/2008 8:49:25 AM
The News24 censoring machine is working overtime. Still none of my posts are going through. Interesting how so many reporters of News24 cry "censorship" when government gags them, yet they have no problem imposing the same tactics against the rest of us.

Michelle 7/25/2008 8:52:00 AM
Since when has a heterosexual person ever been killed, beaten due to their sexual orientation. It has been a year since 2 lesbian woman were killed for being just that, lesbians. Just asking for tolerance, no special favours.

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