Formal apology to men convicted of abolished sexual offences

November 7, 2017

LGBT+

Humanist Society Scotland welcomes today’s statement by the Scottish First Minister to apologise for past convictions of gay men for crimes that are now abolished.

However, they have called for more work on tackling bigoted homophobic views that still permeate across Scottish society.

Gordon MacRae, Chief Executive of Humanist Society Scotland, said:

Today’s apology and the associated pardon laws is a major step forward in putting right a terrible past of homophobic laws here in Scotland. At a time when same sex relationships remain illegial in many countries around the world, it is right that the Scottish Government take this stand to correct a historic wrong.

“Today’s words must be matched with action to eradicate the remaining bigotry and sometimes hateful views still held towards LGBT+ people.

As a case in point it is a disgrace that we still do not have age appropriate sexual health education, which includes homosexual and bisexual relationships in all of Scotland’s schools. Something our MSPs could do today if they have the will to stand up to the vested interests who remain opposed to equality and inclusion in our schools.
Gordon MacRae, Humanist Society Scotland

“