Gay, lesbian body 'out of tune'

2005-04-27 15:43

Johannesburg - Several leading gay and lesbian organisations have distanced themselves from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance's (GLA) call for the education department to allow same-sex couples to attend matric dances.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Paul Tilly, spokesperson for 16 homosexual and bisexual advocacy groups, accused the GLA of acting irresponsibly.

These groups include Behind the Mask, Durban Lesbian and Gay Community and Health Centre, Gay and Lesbian Archives (Gala) and the Lesbian and Gay Equality Project.

Tilly said: "First, the process of acknowledging and disclosing one's sexual orientation is highly personal.

"It also has psychological, emotional and social considerations, especially for under-aged people who may be ill-equipped to deal with this aspect of their sexuality."

He said that in cases where pupils had disclosed their sexuality, but faced discrimination from their school, such incidents should be dealt with in terms of the law which advocates for equality.

"We strongly reject the agenda behind the Gay and Lesbian Alliance and formally distance ourselves from the tactics they advocate such as the use of force, threats, blacklisting organisations and individuals, as well as violence, as tools for progressive change in society," said Tilly.

He said all should join in rejecting "intimidation and violence in the fight for non-discrimination, justice and equality for all".

- SAPA