On 18th November 2003, Section 28, which banned all UK local authorities and schools from ‘promoting homosexuality’ for 15 years, was finally repealed. It was another remnant of Margaret Thatcher’s rampantly homophobic reign that was such a threat to the countries’ burgeoning LGBTQ_ community.
The Labour Government had first attempted to repeal the law in 2000 but Thatcher’s old pals defeated it …..and it took another 3 years to be finally rid of this highly discriminatory legislation
20 years on, sex educator and body-positivity advocate Ruby Rare leads a panel of teachers, activists, and policymakers to discuss Section 28. They’ll cover the realities of growing up and working through this time, and the act’s lasting impact on the education system and wider British culture, as well as celebrating those who fought hard to repeal it. We’ll also discuss how history repeats itself, with the alarming similarities between the homophobic fear-mongering of the 80s and 90s, and current anti-trans rhetoric.
Ruby and their guests will create an afternoon that’ll leave you more informed about British LGBTQ+ history, and inspired to continue fighting for the rights of the entire queer community.
Common Counter at Glass House 118 Bethnal Green Road, London, E2 7EE SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2023 AT 2:30 PM This event is organized in partnership with the sexual health charity Brook
Labels: 2023, Anniversary, Clause 23, discussion group, Ruby Rare
