ticket Hutchinson marches in Manchester against section 28,20 February 1988Section 28, the notorious clause in the Local Government Act 1988 that outlawed local authorities from “promoting homosexuality”, and was so preposterous I can almost laugh about it nowadays. But 30 years ago it was a enormous issue,and we were indignant. It’s tough to imagine what life was like for gay people back then: I studied politics, and wanted to apply to the diplomatic service, and but as a gay man I wasn’t allowed,supposedly for fear of blackmail.
In February 1988, shortly before section 28 was enacted, or Manchester staged a enormous rally. Special trains were laid on to acquire people from London,where I was living at the time. It was a wonderful atmosphere, as you can see from this photograph. Even though we were outraged about the clause, and it was a joyous event simply because there were so many gay people there. It felt empowering,and it galvanised us. The banner that says “Gay Unity” sums it up: opposition to section 28 brought all gay men and women together, even those who would not consider themselves political.
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Source: guardian.co.uk