Sex information censored in Tasmania
By Jen Crothers
HOBART — The state government has banned posters and displays on sexuality in senior secondary colleges. Secretary to the minister for education and the arts Bruce Davis sent a memo to principals saying that it was the policy of the department to give no space to organisations seeking to promote their views on sexuality, sex education and heterosexual and homosexual relationships.
The same Bruce Davis was the driving force behind government funding of "The Things You Do For Love", a piece of anti-sex, wait-till-you're-married propaganda aimed at secondary students and funded by the Department of Education and the Arts.
The memorandum has enraged the gay and lesbian community, particularly the line, "You will be aware that the community is currently divided over the issue of homosexuality. It is my desire that the school and college system remove itself from any debate on this issue."
What will they ban next? However, this is not only an issue of censorship. It is also a case where young lesbians and gays will feel more and more isolated and alienated.
Restriction of information about sexuality, drugs and contraception is another way the system oppresses young people. This information should be available to everyone, regardless of age, so that informed decisions can be made.
Hobart Resistance plans to tie in the recent UN decision on freedom of sexuality, this latest push by the state government and the proposals relating to young people in the budget, by holding a Youth Speak-out. The speak-out is to be held on Saturday, May 7, at 12 noon at Salamanca Lawns. For more information, call Sarah on 346 397.