May 17, 2007News: Ming Campbell Backs Gays Against Homophobia
By vanrozenheim
(London, UK) - Liberal Democrat leader Menzies Campbell warned today that thousands of lives are still being ruined by homophobia. Speaking on the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), he said that the Liberal Democrats are today holding a Parliamentary reception as part of their campaign to tackle homophobic bullying in schools. “Britain has thankfully moved a long way since the decrimalisation of homosexuality over 40 years ago, he said.
“Gay couples have won the right to enter a civil partnership, adopt children and have been given the same inheritance rights as straight couples. In the most part Britain’s perception of homosexuality is changing for the better and I welcome this.
“However, it is appalling that in today’s society the lives of thousands of lesbian and gay adults and young people or those who are perceived to be lesbian and gay are still being ruined by homophobia.
“I am proud that the Liberal Democrats are leading a campaign to stop homophobic bullying in schools and my party and I will continue to oppose discrimination in whatever guise we find it.
“The recently published Equalities Review found that four out of five lesbian and gay adults had faced name calling at school, and over half reported suffering physical violence. This type of treatment is completely unacceptable in the twenty-first century.
“I hope that the International Day Against Homophobia receives the recognition it deserves.”
Politicians from all parties – and across the European Union – are backing IDAHO and the various campaigns.
In Brussels, Jean Lambert, Green MEP for London, is calling for progress on LGBT rights as she pledges her support for IDAHO.
“This is the European Year of Equal Opportunities and while the UK has made significant progress in creating equality before the law, aiming to stamp out homophobia, there has been a rise in homophobic sentiments and attacks across Europe,” she said.
“Some people have been killed and many ostracised simply for being who they are.
“This rise is unacceptable.”
Ms. Lambert, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Gay and Lesbian Rights, has condemned the 85 countries worldwide where men, women and children are still punished for their sexuality.
“And homophobia causes misery for LGBT communities in many more countries,” she added.
IDAHO, she said, gives everyone a chance to make a stand against homophobia and show support for LGBT communities around the world.
“In some countries Government statements have fanned the fires of hate. We all have a role to play in developing a climate in which this kind of intolerance and violence is rejected outright.
“Standing together, IDAHO gives us all the opportunity to celebrate diversity. The European Union should now ensure LGBT communities can enjoy their rights and our government should be arguing for equality world wide,” Ms. Lambert concluded.
The LGBT Rights Intergroup has welcomed the 2007 IDAHO and, as in previous years, endorses and fully supports the day. The Intergroup congratulates the efforts of local activists all around the world who are preparing events and other celebrations to mark the day.
“We welcome recognition by the Euroepan Parliament of May 17 as the International Day Against Homophobia,” said Michael Cashman (UK, PSE), the Intergroup’s president.
“In response to the resolution on homophobia in Europe adopted by the European Parliament, the officers of the Intergroup on have tabled an official request for the President of the European Parliament, Mr. Hans-Gert Pöttering, to make a statement marking the day as called for by the adopted resolution.”
Sophie in `t Veld (Netherlands, ALDE), a vice president of the Intergroup, said that “it is important on IDAHO that Member States take stock of what they have done and what they haven't done to combat homophobia.
“The European Parliament has repeatedly condemned homophobia in the strongest possible terms. Member States and the European Council in particular should do the same. I hope that the Member States will choose to join those marking this day on behalf of so many victims of homophobia.”
Raul Romeva (Spain, Greens) pointed out that homophobia has still not been conquered, even in Europe.
“IDAHO is an important initiative that deserves to be supported both by LGBT activists and also by politicians.
“I hope that the President of the Parliament will choose to mark this day in light of the resolution that was adopted with a clear majority last month.”
