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Section 28 Rears Its Ugly Head

Shortfatdyke

18:02 / 10.02.03

The Observer has reported that an American play, The Laramie Project, about the murder of Matthew Shepherd by two homophobes, will not be seen by under 16s during its London run. Schools are apparently citing Section 28 as the 'reason' the kids can't see it. The play is apparently extremely successful in the US and has been described as incredibly intense. Gay rights activists in the UK are trying to make themselves heard - because Section 28 doesn't apply. To me, it sounds like laziness and bigotry on the part of the schools. I can't remember the clause being used (officially, anyway) too often, but here it is, making a nuisance of itself. Years after our wonderful Labour government promised it would be abolished. Anyway, the article is here.

Our Lady of The Two Towers

18:31 / 10.02.03

Is this actually a play for under 16s though? Looks rather intense. And sounds like just another example of how schools are confused as to what they can and can't do under Section 28.

Shortfatdyke

17:13 / 11.02.03

The play is regularly performed by teenagers in the US - this usually means that schoolies are taken to see it.

And it's the confusion (often convenient) about Section 28 that's caused most of the problems. I just see it as what should be another prod for the Government to get rid of the clause. If they're serious about the issue, that is.

Nietzsch E. Coyote

19:09 / 12.02.03

Can someone please explain what section 28 is?

Lullaboozler

09:28 / 13.02.03

'There is confusion about the legal position,' producer Deirdre Malynn said. 'But whatever schools decide, I would welcome parents bringing children of any age to see the play. It is not a 'gay play' anyway. It is about a hate crime and it could equally apply to the murder of Stephen Lawrence.'

Yes.

Section 28 is being invoked by schools who may wish to organise official trips? This is cowardice on their part. As Deirdre Malynn says, it is a play about hate, not 'gayness'.

Would a quick search and replace of all references to gay with a.n.other minority group make it acceptable to these bigotted headmasters? I would guess yes - they would be queuing up to take their pupils (of any age) to see it as the educational tool it is.

Grr. Getting angry thinking about this. SFD, you are spot on aboout our 'left wing' Govt.

Shortfatdyke

18:09 / 13.02.03

Coyote - Section 28 is a clause in a Local Govt Act, brought in by Margaret Thatcher's govt, that forbids local councils, if I remember correctly - schools, libraries certainly - from 'promoting' homosexuality, or discussing it in equal terms with heterosexual relationships. The Labour Party pledged to abolish it before they came to power in 1997 and have been stalling ever since. Because they don't want to rile Middle England, who think us queers want to fuck their children.

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