Rapper’s documentary prompts MPs on bullying
The Channel 4 Schools documentary Coming Out To Class has generated interest at Westminster.
The programme, presented by gay rapper QBoy, talked to young people who had come out of the closet while still at school.
Lib Dem education spokesman Stephen Williams was inspired to table an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons after the documentary.
The motion, so far signed by seven MPs from all the major parties, reads:
“That this House notes the programme Coming Out To Class broadcast last week by Channel 4, … expresses grave concern about the continued prevalence of homophobic bullying in school revealed by participants in the programme, and about the lack of protection afforded to young gay and lesbian schoolchildren,”
The motion also called on the government to:
“Support the case made by presenter QBoy to introduce legislation to require schools to protect gay and lesbian children from the emotional harm and impaired educational attainment that results from bullying.”
The rapper said he was delighted that the programme had been noticed in Parliament.
“This is a symbolic step towards equality for the children in our schools,” QBoy told PinkNews.co.uk
“If we are lucky enough to get parliamentary support then I’d be very happy, but if the EDM is duly ignored for the most part, then it shows if nothing else, that the safety of gay teenagers in schools is of no consequence to the British Government, which is exactly what I intend to help change.”
