Homophobic Terrorist Attack In Orlando
Commenting on the weekends shocking terrorist attack in Orlando, Florida, LGBTI and human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said:
“My condolences to the victims of this barbaric, bloody butchery – and to their loved ones.
“On the basis of police claims that the killer appears to have been Islamist-inspired:
“There was always a possibility that Islamist extremists would target gay communities in the West, whether as lone attackers or via organised terrorist cells. They have a pathological hatred of LGBT people, and also of Jews and liberal Muslims.
“This attack is a wake-up call to LGBT organisations and venues in the US, Britain and other Western countries to strengthen their security. There is no room for the complacent and naive belief the Islamist fanatics will confine their killings of gay people to Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan.
“We must resist those who want to use this slaughter to demonise and scapegoat the Muslim community, most of whom deplore terrorism as much as everyone else.
“The condolences expressed by Florida Senator Marco Rubio are sickening hypocrisy. He has repeatedly opposed gay equality, including wanting to repeal same-sex marriage and protection against discrimination for LGBT employees. His anti-gay sentiments have fanned the flames of homophobic hatred,” said Mr Tatchell.
Two men kissing, London 1990
Two men kissing in a Soho Square, 1999
The two men above are kissing in Soho Square in 1999 at a meeting called to show outrage at the bombing of the gay pub in Soho, The Admiral Lord Duncan in 1999. The bomb killed three people and injured many others. Subsequently David Copeland was charged and found guilty of the dreadful crime. He was given six life sentences for his thirteen day reign of terror in London.
Peter Tatchell speaking at the meeting in Soho Square
Human Rights campaigner Peter Tatchell spoke at the meeting and addressed the need for society to oppose homophobia in all its forms. It is thanks to campaigners like Peter and others that gains have been made in LGBT rights.
Paul Boateng at Soho Square future Chief Secretary of the Treasury Paul Boateng (above) also spoke at the hurriedly organised but well attended meeting.
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Paris Gay Pride 2004
Phil,
I would support a campaign to have these photographs displayed in every school,church,mosque,synagogue,temple,chapel and police station in the country.
Fraternally,
Billy