Parents face prosecution for protesting over LGBT History Month lessons

PinkNews logo on a pink background surrounded by illustrated line drawings of a rainbow, pride flag, unicorn and more.

Around 30 parents who took their children out of an east London primary school to protest against them being taught about gay, lesbian and trans relationships may be prosecuted.

Waltham Forest Council has said that the parents at George Tomlimson School in Leytonstone will face action over the unauthorised absence, although it did not say confirm what sanctions will be taken.

The school held a week of special lessons to commemorate LGBT History Month to educate children about non-heterosexual relationships.

Pupils watched an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet retitled Romeo and Julian and read stories such as one about two male penguins falling in love.

However, parents complained that the content of the lessons was not suitable for primary school pupils, with some informing the school in advance that their children would be absent.

A spokesman from the council said: “As part of the borough’s policy of promoting tolerance in our schools, children are taught that everyone in our society is of equal value.

“Parents were invited to meet with teachers and governors several weeks ago to discuss what work would be taking place throughout the national LGBT History Month, and how this work would be delivered.

“Regrettably, some parents chose to remove their children from school. We are not aware of pupils being withdrawn from any other school in the borough.

“The council does not condone any unauthorised absence from school and action has been taken.”
Pervez Latif, whose two children attend the school, told the Daily Mail: “I didn’t want my children to be learning about this.

“I found it difficult to explain topics such as homosexual relationships at such a young age. If I am faced with court action, then I will just explain that these are my views.”

Comments (0)

MyPinkNews members are invited to comment on articles to discuss the content we publish, or debate issues more generally. Please familiarise yourself with our community guidelines to ensure that our community remains a safe and inclusive space for all.

Loading Comments