Paparazzi Whore leave Marrakech Express over homophobia

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New band Paparazzi Whore have cancelled their headline gig at Pacha Marrakech this September due to concerns by the band over the treatment of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transsexuals in Morocco.

Paparazzi Whore were originally due to play at the ‘A Small World’ party on 2 September, but cancelled due to what Micci, the bands lead singer, has identified as ‘suppression’ of individual choice by state law.

‘Some clubbers who will go there assuming that they can be themselves are in for a rude awakening when they are told not to express who they are sexually because they face deportation if caught’ claimed the bands bisexual lead singer.

According to the Penal Code for Morocco homosexuality is illegal and can result in up to 3 years in prison and a cash fine. Even in the cities there is a constant danger of arrest, though this rarely results in the arrest of Europeans. In Tetouan recently a number of men were arrested on the suspicion of homosexuality, though the authorities blamed this on a homophobic civil servant.

Paparazzi Whore revealed that when they decided to do the gig they were not aware of the precarious situation of the gay community in Morocco, and only when they were made aware of this at a later date.

Micci thought that ‘as (Pacha) is a modern western resort and well known for its club scene’ there would not be a problem regarding sexual choice. As a result the band felt it necessary to cancel the gig.

Micci, Paparazzi Whore’s lead singer, added that as a bi-sexual woman, in the year 2006 I am proud of who I am and proud of my sexuality. I find it ludicrous and appalling that the band that I front couldn’t take gay or lesbian magazines to come and review us when we perform at Pacha in Marakech. It would of been hypocritical to go and play in a country that does not accept me as an individual. I refuse for my sexuality to be dictated to me by anyone.’

The gig was meant to be part of the increasing profile that the band has received following their good reception by both Steve Lamacq on Radio 1 and Radio 6.

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