The power of one
When Sir Ian McKellen came out in 1988 (despite fears it might damage his career), it was to oppose the then British government introducing Section 28, banning local authorities from “promoting homosexuality … [in schools] … as a kind of pretended family relationship”.
The law, the brainchild of ‘Christians’, was repealed in 2003.
During the battle Sir Ian founded Stonewall, now the most powerful gay organisation in the UK. And he continues to fight for the truth about homosexuality to be taught in British schools.
Interviewed at Manchester Pride last weekend, when asked “What do you think are the challenges still facing LGB&T people in terms of homophobia and transphobia?”, he answered, “Schools. Schools. Schools!”
Schools are among the most dangerous places for young gays and lesbians in their vulnerable years.
Schools are where the attitudes of the next generations are formed, and if we are to ever take our proper place as full citizens of this or any other country, we must create schools where all kids, whatever their gender or sexuality, can flourish free from fear.
Unfortunately, all too often, we fail.
For the last 26 weeks, every Thursday at about 9.10am I have sat in the studios of JOY 94.9 and called a remarkable man who has made it his personal mission to expose and challenge homophobia in schools around Australia.
Beginning in Geelong in February, my listeners and I have been following the travels of Daniel Witthaus as he drives around Australia in a ute called Bruce. The ute was provided by Uniting Care – Cutting Edge. He’s funding the rest of his journey himself.
Tackling smaller regional towns like Kalgoorlie, Port Lincoln, Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton, Broome, Mt Isa and Newcastle, as well as the major cities, last week he hit famed rev-head town of Bathurst.
At each stop he links up with local educators and service providers, collecting stories of what gay life is like all around the country, and passing on his knowledge and expertise. Hoping to plant a seed which will help teachers tackle homophobia and put a stop to the bullying.
Daniel has heard many stories, both harrowing and inspiring: if you’re interested, go to his blog at www.thatssogay.com.au, download podcasts of our conversations via the Freshly Doug page on JOY’s website, www.joy.org.au, or read transcripts at www.currentaffairs.net.au
He has created books and teaching resources any school can use. And he is taking them with him as he travels, challenging homophobia ‘one cuppa at a time’, as he likes to say.
Daniel is the answer to anyone who says, ‘What difference can just one person make?’
What difference have you made today?
