St. Patrick’s College’s Homophobic Ball Policy—Final Update

Media Release: Queer the Night Collective, Keith Labad and Malcom Pimentel*

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At 11:59pm, Wednesday 15 June the facebook page formed in response to St. Patrick’s College’s homophobic ball policy was taken down. With over 12,000 supporters joining within the first 48 hours, the page was seen as an overwhelming success. It sent the clear message that people want an end to all explicit and implicit homophobic school policies.

Malcom Pimentel was especially “proud and happy with what has happened”, saying that the page has “inspired others who often remain silent to speak out”. Malcom reiterated that this was “not about the school or religion, but about wanting to bring his friend to the ball”.

Keith Labad echoed Malcom’s sentiments in saying that “the page shows that we as a community we will not take homophobia lying-down anymore”. He continued expressing his pleasure at “having sparked a public debate and having brought the wide-spread issue of homophobic ball policies to national attention”. Keith expressed his desire for the general issue not to end here and encourages others to “bring homophobic school ball policies to the public’s attention as substantial progress still needs to be made”.

Others seeking advice or support in making public any discriminatory school polices are encouraged to contact the Queer the Night collective on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/qthenight or by emailing queerthenight@gmail.com.

Both Malcom and Keith wanted to express their gratitude for the overwhelming support, both in New Zealand and internationally.

ENDS

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