What were the alternative names or designations for Section 28?

Section 28 was also referred to as Clause 28 and, in the context of Scottish legislation, as Section 2A.

When did Section 28 come into effect, and under which government?

Section 28 became law on May 24, 1988, during the premiership of Margaret Thatcher.

What immediate impacts did Section 28 have on LGBT organizations and activities?

The legislation led to the closure or limitation of activities for many organizations, including LGBT student support groups, and encouraged self-censorship within the community.

How did Section 28 affect the education sector in the UK?

Section 28 created uncertainty among educators, causing many teachers to avoid discussing homosexuality in any educational context due to ambiguity about what constituted 'promotion'.

In which parts of the UK was Section 28 initially enacted?

Section 28 was enacted in England, Scotland, and Wales.

When and how was Section 28 repealed in Scotland?

Section 28 was repealed in Scotland on June 21, 2000, through the Ethical Standards in Public Life etc. (Scotland) Act 2000.

When was Section 28 repealed in England and Wales?

Section 28 was repealed in England and Wales in November 2003, as part of the Local Government Act 2003.

What was the historical context regarding homosexuality in England and Wales prior to Section 28?

Homosexuality between men over the age of 21 was decriminalized in England and Wales in 1967 under the Sexual Offences Act 1967, following recommendations from the Wolfenden report in 1957.

How did the HIV/AIDS epidemic influence the social climate leading up to Section 28?

The association of HIV/AIDS with gay and bisexual men in the early 1980s, amplified by media and medical professionals, increased the stigmatization of gay men and contributed to higher levels of discrimination against LGBT people.

What did public opinion surveys reveal about attitudes towards homosexuality in the mid-1980s?

A British Social Attitudes Survey in 1987 indicated that 75% of the population considered homosexual activity 'always or mostly wrong,' with only 11% believing it was 'not wrong at all'.

What role did the book 'Jenny Lives with Eric and Martin' play in the lead-up to Section 28?

The book, which depicted a young girl living with her father and his male partner, caused outrage in the right-wing press and among Conservative politicians. It was frequently referenced in parliamentary debates that preceded the introduction of Section 28.

What was the initial legislative attempt that preceded Section 28?

In 1986, Lord Halsbury introduced the Local Government Act 1986 (Amendment) Bill, commonly known as the Earl of Halsbury's Bill, which aimed to prevent local authorities from promoting homosexuality. This bill passed the House of Lords but did not become law before the 1987 general election.

Who proposed the amendment that became Section 28 in the House of Commons?

Conservative MP David Wilshire proposed the amendment, initially as Clause 27 and later as Clause 28, to the Local Government Bill in December 1987.

What were some of the arguments used by supporters of Section 28?

Key arguments included protecting children from 'indoctrination' into homosexuality, preserving the importance of marriage and the nuclear family, and the belief that the general public supported the measure.

What were the primary arguments made by opponents of Section 28?

Opponents argued that the legislation discriminated against LGBT people, endangered vulnerable youth by preventing discussion of sexual orientation and addressing homophobic bullying, and further stigmatized LGBT individuals by framing them as inherently 'predatory'.

How did Section 28 impact the formation of LGBT rights organizations in the UK?

The implementation of Section 28 served to galvanize the disparate British LGBT rights movement, leading to the formation of significant campaign groups such as Stonewall and OutRage!.

Were there any successful prosecutions of local authorities under Section 28?

No local authorities were successfully prosecuted under Section 28, although legal challenges were made to stop funding for LGBT and HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives.

What was the nature of the legal challenge in Glasgow involving Sheena Strain and Glasgow City Council?

Sheena Strain sued Glasgow City Council, arguing that her council tax was being used to promote homosexuality, specifically by funding the HIV/AIDS awareness organization PHACE West and its safe sex guide. The case was dropped after the council agreed to ensure funds were not used for promoting homosexuality.

How did Section 28 divide the Conservative Party?

The legislation heightened tensions between party modernizers and social conservatives. Notably, leader William Hague sacked frontbencher Shaun Woodward in 1999 for refusing to support the party line on Section 28's retention, leading to Woodward's defection to the Labour Party.

Which political parties, besides the Conservatives, were involved in the debate over Section 28's repeal?

The Liberal Democrats and the Green Party supported the repeal of Section 28.

What was the outcome of the vote for the repeal of Section 2A in Scotland?

The repeal was supported by a majority of 99 Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), with 17 voting against and 2 abstaining.

What was the significance of Baroness Young in the campaign against the repeal of Section 28 in England and Wales?

Baroness Young led an organized opposition campaign in the House of Lords against New Labour's initial attempt to repeal Section 28. Her influence diminished following her death, contributing to the eventual passage of the repeal.

Did any local authorities attempt to maintain policies similar to Section 28 after its repeal?

Yes, Kent County Council introduced its own school curriculum guidelines that mirrored Section 28's intent, prohibiting the 'promotion of homosexuality' and emphasizing the nuclear family. These guidelines were later quashed by the Equality Act 2010.

What arguments did the Secondary Heads Association and NASUWT make against repealing Section 28?

They argued that it would be inappropriate to place the responsibility for sex education policy solely on parents and governors for each school.

Name some of the religious groups that expressed support for Section 28.

Religious groups supporting Section 28 included The Salvation Army, the Christian Institute, Christian Action, Research and Education (CARE), and the Muslim Council of Britain.

Which newspapers were noted for strongly supporting Section 28?

Newspapers that strongly supported Section 28 included The Daily Mail, The Sun, The Daily Telegraph, and the Daily Record.

Who was a prominent supporter of Section 28 in Scotland, and what campaign did he lead?

Brian Souter, a businessman, was a prominent supporter and led the country's 'Keep the Clause' campaign.

What was the nature of Brian Souter's 'Keep the Clause' campaign in Scotland?

Souter privately funded a postal ballot which he claimed showed strong support for retaining Section 28, although the poll had a low response rate and was criticized by LGBT campaigners and the Scottish Executive.

What were the main arguments used by those who advocated for the repeal of Section 28?

They argued that the legislation discriminated against LGBT people, endangered youth by preventing discussion of sexual orientation and addressing homophobic bullying, and contributed to the stigmatization of LGBT individuals.

Which media publications provided support for the campaign to repeal Section 28?

Media publications supporting the repeal included Capital Gay, the Pink Paper, The Guardian, Gay Times, The Independent, and The Daily Mirror.

What significant protest occurred in Manchester in February 1988 regarding Section 28?

John Shiers led a demonstration in Manchester against Section 28, which was attended by approximately 25,000 people.

What actions did lesbian campaigners take the night before Section 28 came into effect?

Campaigners staged protests, including abseiling into Parliament and interrupting the BBC1's Six O'Clock News.

Name some of the prominent performers who participated in a benefit show for the abolition of Section 28.

Performers included the Pet Shop Boys, Sir Ian McKellen, Stephen Fry, and Tilda Swinton.

What cultural impact has Section 28 had, as evidenced by artistic works?

Section 28 has inspired cultural depictions such as the drag comedy musical 'Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho' (2013), the play 'Next Lesson', the film 'Blue Jean' (2022), and references in the TV dramas 'Queer as Folk' (1999) and 'It's A Sin' (2021).

How did Michael Howard, as Conservative Party Leader, comment on Section 28 in 2005?

Michael Howard stated that the problem Section 28 was intended to address no longer existed and that the law should not remain on the statute books.

What was David Cameron's initial stance on the repeal of Section 28, and how did it evolve?

Initially, David Cameron attacked the Labour government's plans to abolish Section 28, calling them 'anti-family' and accusing the government of promoting homosexuality. He voted against its repeal in 2003. Later, in 2009, he apologized for the Conservative Party's introduction of the law, calling it a mistake, and in 2010 proposed altering party policy to embed equality in schools.

What comparisons were drawn between Michael Gove's 2011 funding agreement clause for academies and Section 28?

The clause stipulated that schools must emphasize 'the importance of marriage,' which, although not explicitly mentioning sexual orientation, led The Daily Telegraph to draw parallels with Section 28.

What did a 2013 investigation reveal about Sex and Relationship Education (SRE) policies in schools post-Section 28?

The investigation found that over 40 schools retained SRE policies that either replicated Section 28's language or were ambiguous regarding teaching about LGBT identities, prompting a Department for Education investigation.

According to a 2018 study by Catherine Lee, how did Section 28 affect LGBT teachers' openness about their sexual orientation in schools?

The study found that only 20% of LGBT teachers who taught under Section 28 were open about their sexual orientation with colleagues, compared to 88% of those who qualified after its repeal. It also found that 40% of participants who worked under Section 28 saw their sexual orientation as incompatible with their profession, versus 13% of those trained after its repeal.

What did research by Janine Walker and Jo Bates find regarding school libraries and LGBT resources after Section 28's abolition?

Their 2016 research indicated that the availability of LGBT literature and resources remained limited, and participating librarians lacked the necessary knowledge to adequately support LGBT young people.

What did a 2014 Stonewall report find regarding teachers' knowledge of teaching LGBT issues?

The report found that 37% of primary school teachers and 29% of secondary school teachers were unsure if they were permitted to teach lessons on LGBT issues.

What was the primary argument used by supporters of Section 28 to justify its existence?

The main supporting argument was that Section 28 would protect children from being 'indoctrinated' into homosexuality.

What did the National Union of Teachers (NUT) state about the impact of Section 28 on schools?

The NUT stated that Section 28 restricted schools' ability to support learning and education for equality, adversely affected anti-discrimination schemes, and made it difficult to address homophobic bullying.

What was the stated aim of Section 28, according to Jill Knight?

Jill Knight asserted that the aim of Section 28 was to protect children in schools from having homosexuality 'thrust upon them'.

What did a government circular suggest regarding the discussion of homosexuality in classrooms under Section 28?

The circular stated that Section 28 would not prevent the objective discussion of homosexuality in the classroom or the counselling of pupils concerned about their sexuality.

What did Lord Somers argue in the House of Lords regarding Section 28?

Lord Somers argued that homosexuality is abnormal and that the clause did not prohibit homosexuality itself but merely discouraged its teaching, suggesting that impressionable young people could pick up 'bad habits' as easily as good ones.

What was the outcome of the vote on the 'Arts Council' amendment proposed in the House of Lords concerning Section 28?

The amendment, which aimed to provide a compromise, failed by a majority of 55 votes.

What did Tony Benn caution about in the House of Commons regarding the interpretation of 'promote' in Section 28?

Tony Benn warned the House to be cautious about giving judges the power to interpret the word 'promote,' suggesting that if interpreted broadly, it could mean that any depiction of certain themes (like adultery or murder) would constitute promotion.

What was the significance of the 'Keep the Clause' campaign led by Brian Souter?

This campaign aimed to retain Section 28 in Scotland and involved a privately funded postal ballot, which, despite criticism, was used to claim public support for the legislation.

How did Nicola Sturgeon react to the results of Brian Souter's postal ballot regarding Section 28?

Nicola Sturgeon stated that the result confirmed many Scots were concerned about repeal and acknowledged the debate surrounding Section 28 as 'difficult'.

Section 28 Wiki: Section 28: A Legislative Shadow on UK LGBTQ+ Rights

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Defining Section 28

The Core Prohibition

Section 28 refers to a specific provision within the Local Government Act 1988. This legislation stipulated that local authorities in England, Scotland, and Wales were forbidden from intentionally promoting homosexuality or publishing material with the intent to promote it. Furthermore, it prohibited the teaching in maintained schools of the acceptability of homosexuality as a comparable family relationship to heterosexuality.^[1]

Historical Context

Enacted during Margaret Thatcher's premiership on May 24, 1988, Section 28 (also known as Clause 28 or Section 2A in Scotland) emerged amidst a period of heightened societal anxieties regarding homosexuality and the perceived influence of LGBTQ+ individuals on public life, particularly within educational settings.^[2]^[3]

Societal Impact

The law's ambiguous wording created a chilling effect, leading many LGBTQ+ organizations, including student support groups, to cease operations, curtail activities, or engage in self-censorship. Educators also faced uncertainty, often avoiding any discussion of homosexuality to prevent potential repercussions.^[6]

Historical Context and Precursors

Decriminalisation and Discrimination

While male homosexual activity was decriminalised in England and Wales in 1967, discrimination persisted. The emergence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the early 1980s exacerbated societal homophobia, with the media and some medical professionals associating the virus predominantly with gay and bisexual men. This correlation fueled increased stigmatisation and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.^[12]^[13]

Public Opinion and Political Climate

Public attitudes in the mid-1980s reflected significant disapproval of homosexual activity. British Social Attitudes Survey data indicated that a substantial majority viewed homosexual activity as "always or mostly wrong." This sentiment was prevalent across the political spectrum, providing fertile ground for legislative measures perceived to uphold traditional family values.^[16]

Educational Policy Shifts

Following the legalisation of homosexuality proposals in Scotland, guidance suggested schools should not teach homosexuality within sex education. This was part of a legislative compromise. Subsequently, government policy emphasized teaching only heterosexual intercourse in schools, contributing to an environment where discussions about LGBTQ+ issues were actively discouraged.^[17]

Alliances and Activism

The 1980s saw the rise of LGBTQ+ activism and alliances, notably the "Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners" campaign. These movements advocated for anti-discrimination policies and contributed to a growing awareness of LGBTQ+ rights, influencing political discourse and party platforms.^[21]^[22]

The Legislative Journey

Parliamentary Debates

Concerns over the perceived decline of the nuclear family prompted legislative action. Initial attempts, like Lord Halsbury's Bill in the House of Lords, aimed to prevent the promotion of homosexuality. These efforts culminated in David Wilshire MP proposing an amendment to the Local Government Bill in 1987, which became Clause 28.^[29]^[30]

Compromise and Opposition

Throughout the parliamentary process, various compromise amendments were proposed, aiming to clarify the scope of the clause and mitigate its potential impact on LGBTQ+ support services and education. However, these amendments were largely defeated, with significant debate surrounding the interpretation of "promotion" and the potential for judicial interpretation.^[32]^[37]

Enactment and Protests

Section 28 became law on May 24, 1988. The night before its implementation, significant protests occurred, including direct action targeting media outlets, highlighting the intense opposition to the legislation.^[40]^[75]

Controversy and Ambiguity

Interpretation and Impact

The legislation's vague language regarding "promotion" led to widespread uncertainty. Many interpreted it as a ban on discussing homosexuality in schools, impacting pastoral care and anti-bullying initiatives. While government circulars attempted to clarify that objective discussion was permissible, this often exacerbated confusion.^[44]^[46]

Legal Challenges and Redundancy Arguments

Some argued that Section 28 was redundant given existing legislation like the Education Act 1996, which gave school governors more control over sex education. However, its symbolic power and influence on LGBTQ+ inequality remained significant, prompting continued campaigns for its abolition.^[75]

Prosecutions and Funding Disputes

While no local authorities were successfully prosecuted under Section 28, legal challenges arose concerning the funding of LGBTQ+ initiatives. A notable case involved Glasgow City Council and an HIV/AIDS awareness guide, highlighting the law's use to contest the provision of services.^[48]

Political and Societal Reactions

Party Divisions

Section 28 caused significant divisions within the Conservative Party, pitting modernisers against social conservatives. High-profile figures like Shaun Woodward defected to the Labour Party over the issue, while others, like Francis Maude, later acknowledged the law as a mistake.^[51]^[87]

Opposition Movements

The legislation galvanized the LGBTQ+ rights movement, leading to the formation of influential groups like Stonewall and OutRage!. Campaigns for repeal received support from various organizations, trade unions, and media outlets, fostering widespread public opposition.^[77]^[75]

Support and Counter-Arguments

Supporters argued Section 28 protected children from 'indoctrination' and upheld the importance of the nuclear family. Religious groups and conservative publications largely backed the law. However, opponents countered that it fostered discrimination, stigmatized LGBTQ+ individuals, and hindered efforts to address homophobic bullying.^[63]^[68]

Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact

Lasting Effects

Despite its repeal, Section 28's legacy continues to influence LGBTQ+ individuals in education. Studies indicate lasting impacts on teachers' openness about their sexual orientation and perceptions of their profession's compatibility with LGBTQ+ identities. School libraries also reportedly retained limited LGBTQ+ resources for years.^[97]^[99]

Apologies and Comparisons

Several political figures who supported Section 28 later expressed regret or apologized for their stance. Comparisons have been drawn between Section 28 and more recent legislative efforts in other countries concerning LGBTQ+ issues and education, highlighting recurring debates on similar themes.^[86]^[103]

Cultural Depictions

The profound impact of Section 28 has been reflected in various cultural works, including theatre, film, and television dramas. These depictions explore the law's personal and societal ramifications, contributing to public understanding and remembrance of this significant period in LGBTQ+ history.^[107]^[108]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Section 28" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about section_28 while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

vestibule architecture

nakajima type 91 fighter

erzincan

blues

north dakota

References

"The History of AIDS and ARC" at the LSU Law Center

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive 17 December 1987 col 906

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive Second reading debate in Lords col 966

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive Lords 1 February 1988 col 865â890

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive Lords 2 February 1988 col 865â890

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive 8 March 1988 â House of Commons

Hansard from Millbank Systems Archive Lengthy debates of 9 March â House of Commons

Brian Deer, Schools escape clause 28 in 'gay ban' fiasco (Sunday Times).

A full list of references for this article are available at the Section 28 Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not legal advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional legal consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified legal professional with any questions you may have regarding legal matters. Never disregard professional legal advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Section 28: A Legislative Shadow on UK LGBTQ+ Rights

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Section 28 ⚖️

📜 The Core Prohibition

⏱️ Historical Context

🌍 Societal Impact

Historical Context and Precursors ⏳

⚖️ Decriminalisation and Discrimination

📊 Public Opinion and Political Climate

🏫 Educational Policy Shifts

🤝 Alliances and Activism

The Legislative Journey 🏛️

📝 Parliamentary Debates

🗣️ Compromise and Opposition

✅ Enactment and Protests

Controversy and Ambiguity ❓

❓ Interpretation and Impact

⚖️ Legal Challenges and Redundancy Arguments

🚫 Prosecutions and Funding Disputes

Political and Societal Reactions 📣

🏛️ Party Divisions

✊ Opposition Movements

📢 Support and Counter-Arguments

Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact 🌟

📜 Lasting Effects

🗣️ Apologies and Comparisons

🎬 Cultural Depictions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Section 28

The Core Prohibition

Historical Context

Societal Impact

Historical Context and Precursors

Decriminalisation and Discrimination

Public Opinion and Political Climate

Educational Policy Shifts

Alliances and Activism

The Legislative Journey

Parliamentary Debates

Compromise and Opposition

Enactment and Protests

Controversy and Ambiguity

Interpretation and Impact

Legal Challenges and Redundancy Arguments

Prosecutions and Funding Disputes

Political and Societal Reactions

Party Divisions

Opposition Movements

Support and Counter-Arguments

Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact

Lasting Effects

Apologies and Comparisons

Cultural Depictions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice