Outrageous!: The Story of Section 28 and Britain's Battle for LGBT Education

On May 23, 1988, Paul Baker celebrated his sixteenth birthday with his family, but the atmosphere was tense due to the impending passage of Section 28. The law forbade local authorities from teaching the acceptance of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship, leading to protests and the formation of LGBTQ+ rights groups. Outrageous!: The Story of Section 28 is now available in paperback, providing a detailed account of the background, press coverage, political debates, and the eventual repeal of the law in the 2000s.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2023
Publisher: Reaktion Books

On May 23, 1988, Paul Baker celebrated his sixteenth birthday with his family, enjoying a cake while The Six OClock News played in the background. However, an unsettling atmosphere prevailed as muffled shouts of "Stop Section 28!" echoed through the room, accompanied by a scuffle. The following day, the morning papers announced a controversial headline: "Beeb Man Sits on Lesbian." This event marked the passing of Section 28, a law that prohibited local authorities from teaching the acceptance of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship. The impact of this legislation was profound, sending shockwaves throughout British society and silencing both gay pupils and teachers. It also galvanized massive protests and the formation of LGBTQ+ rights groups such as OutRage! and Stonewall.

Now available in paperback, Outrageous! delves into the comprehensive story behind the Act, exploring the background, press coverage, political statements, protest efforts, and the eventual legacy of this discriminatory law. Drawing from extensive research, interviews with key figures including Ian McKellen, Michael Cashman, and Angela Mason, as well as personal recollections, the book offers an impassioned, warm, and often moving account of the unimaginable prejudice enshrined within law and the remarkable resilience of the community in overcoming it.

Section 28's passage into law marked a significant turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Britain. It not only perpetuated discrimination but also had a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and communities. The repeal of Section 28 in the 2000s was a testament to the power of collective action and the unwavering determination of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Outrageous! serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering our past, challenging prejudice, and fostering inclusivity and equality for all.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789147094