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Tag Archives: HATE CRIME
SHOULD WE “TOLERATE” HOMOPHOBIC CHRISTIANS?
THAT SHOULD REALLY BE THE QUESTION…
This is NOT to suggest that REAL Christians are homophobic.
Just the dim-witted, ill-educated ones who somehow feel that HATE and FEAR are Christian values.
David Cameron says Christians should be ‘tolerant’ of homosexuality 8 March 2011
I could not be any clearer on my viewpoint but HERE IT IS AGAIN:
THE DEADLIEST OF SINS SPEECH
(FIRST DELIVERED IN TRAFALGAR SQUARE, LONDON AS PART OF THE VIGIL AGAINST HATE CRIME ORGANISED BY MARK HEALEY AND 17-24-30)
This is not a time for silence but a time to take personal responsibility, to speak out and to share our humanity; because the most deadly of all possible sins is the mutilation of the spirit and YOU, as much as anyone, can influencereal social change.
Harvey Bernard Milk, and others of his generation, fought for social progress with intelligence and creativity.
Harvey talked of breaking down the closet doors, yet for many these doors remain firmly locked; bolted both inside and out.
On the surface, it seems that society has grown more “accepting”, note the inverted commas, of the LGBT community but this, in itself, still suggests that “acceptance” is required, that we are “less than” and that our VALUE is based upon the judgment of others. (?)
ALL the “ism’s” still exist and, YES, ALL prejudices have equal importance, require of us to remain vigilant and ALLmust be actively challenged.
Bigoted behaviour occurs in many different ways and can range, as YOU know, from subtle to malicious and even if Bigotry is, in theory, being addressed in the law, in policy and in procedure within schools and in the workplace,culturally the progress is much slower.
We must not allow ourselves to be defined and judged solely by sexuality or gender identity any more than we should be defined or judged by our cultural heritage, the colour of our skin, our profession, our income or even… ourtaste in music.
For us to effectively tackle any of the “isms”, we all must engage in actions which address discrimination andprejudicial attitudes in every area of our society; our schools and universities, our workplaces, our communities and our shopping malls.
Each and every one of us has an obligation to take responsibility for making our society safer, fairer and more inclusive and we should not rely on the good will and hard work of others to secure that just and equal society, whilst complaining that we ourselves are powerless.
Whatever YOUR strengths, whatever YOUR core character traits, there is something that YOU can do to influence change in the world.
It’s not about waving a placard or marching in a parade, unless that’s your style. Instead, it’s about finding thecorrect method of communication for YOU.
Sign that petition, tweet and retweet your views, repost a powerful YouTube video or an article you’ve found, Facebook or MySpace it, write to your MP, talk to, write to, email if you have to political leaders, police forces, health services, broadcasters and employers so that they too can all positively influence the way that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are perceived.
We can no longer wait for another Harvey Milk to follow or rely on the Peter Tatchell’s of this world, the pioneers, the visionaries, to fight our fight; but instead must learn ways to be tenacious, tireless and determined advocates for social equality ourselves.
We must, ourselves, find the strength, resolve and determination to lead and influence the change we want to see, to bring hope to those who have none.
Somehow in some way we too can be capable of great things.
LISTEN TO THE SPEECH HERE: http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Invite-DAVID-To-Speak-.html
Invite DAVID To Speak!
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute.
As a teacher, David has worked in both the public and private sectors. His focus has been on inclusion with regard to Special Educational Needs and the development of Creative Partnerships.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
His background in the arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT and his passion for Equality Advocacy make him a creative and innovative program planner, facilitator and public speaker.
FEES ARE NEGOTIABLE
AVAILABLE NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY
FOR MORE ON DAVID’S BACKGROUND CLICK HERE
DEADLIEST OF SINS SPEECH – DAVID E. WATTERS
photo - Karen Kodish http://karenkodish.com/
FIRST DELIVERED IN TRAFALGAR SQUARE, LONDON AS PART OF THE VIGIL AGAINST HATE CRIME ORGANISED BY MARK HEALEY AND 17-24-30
My message tonight is that Somehow in some way YOU are capable of great things.
This is not a time for silence but a time to take personal responsibility, to speak out and to share our humanity; because the most deadly of all possible sins is the mutilation of the spirit and YOU, as much as anyone, can influence real social change.
Harvey Bernard Milk, and others of his generation, fought for social progress with intelligence and creativity.
Harvey talked of breaking down the closet doors, yet for many these doors remain firmly locked; bolted both inside and out.
On the surface, it seems that society has grown more “accepting”, note the inverted commas, of the LGBT community but this, in itself, still suggests that “acceptance” is required, that we are “less than” and that our VALUE is based upon the judgment of others. (?)
ALL the “ism’s” still exist and, YES, ALL prejudices have equal importance, require of us to remain vigilant and ALL must be actively challenged.
Bigoted behaviour occurs in many different ways and can range, as YOU know, from subtle to malicious and even if Bigotry is, in theory, being addressed in the law, in policy and in procedure within schools and in the workplace, culturally the progress is much slower.
We must not allow ourselves to be defined and judged solely by sexuality or gender identity any more than we should be defined or judged by our cultural heritage, the colour of our skin, our profession, our income or even… our taste in music.
For us to effectively tackle any of the “isms”, we all must engage in actions which address discrimination and prejudicial attitudes in every area of our society; our schools and universities, our workplaces, our communities and our shopping malls.
Each and every one of us has an obligation to take responsibility for making our society safer, fairer and more inclusive and we should not rely on the good will and hard work of others to secure that just and equal society, whilst complaining that we ourselves are powerless.
Whatever YOUR strengths, whatever YOUR core character traits, there is something that YOU can do to influence change in the world.
It’s not about waving a placard or marching in a parade, unless that’s your style. Instead, it’s about finding the correct method of communication for YOU.
Sign that petition, tweet and retweet your views, repost a powerful YouTube video or an article you’ve found, Facebook or MySpace it, write to your MP, talk to, write to, email if you have to political leaders, police forces, health services, broadcasters and employers so that they too can all positively influence the way that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are perceived.
We can no longer wait for another Harvey Milk to follow or rely on the Peter Tatchell’s of this world, the pioneers, the visionaries, to fight our fight; but instead must learn ways to be tenacious, tireless and determined advocates for social equality ourselves.
We must, ourselves, find the strength, resolve and determination to lead and influence the change we want to see, to bring hope to those who have none.
Somehow in some way we too can be capable of great things.
HERE’S MY SPEECH FROM SATURDAY’S VIGIL. FROM 3MINS ON
Invite DAVID To Speak!
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute.
As a teacher, David has worked in both the public and private sectors. His focus has been on inclusion with regard to Special Educational Needs and the development of Creative Partnerships.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
His background in the arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT and his passion for Equality Advocacy make him a creative and innovative program planner, facilitator and public speaker.
FEES ARE NEGOTIABLE
AVAILABLE NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY
FOR MORE ON DAVID’S BACKGROUND CLICK HERE
Statement by Mark Healey regarding the Vigil Against Hate Crime held on Saturday 23rd October
I was really pleased with the outcome of the Vigil on Saturday. I think that 3,000 people despite the poor weather conditions this year was brilliant and shows that there is a lot of support for what we are doing (Paul from the GLA team said there many have been upto 4,000). In hindsight maybe the change from Friday to Saturday was not a good idea, it also meant that we were competing against x-factor as well. Something we will need to look at for next year, although we will also need to consult with our partners around the globe, including the Harvey Milk Foundation and Vancover (Canda) to set a date for next year.
I’d like to express my thanks to everyone involved, especially those who have been on our steering group this year and helped to make this event happen. Thanks also to so many volunteers without whom we could not have put this event on. There are so many people to mention individually, but in particular Emma Hands, Ali Press, Trevor Edwards, Chris Flaherty, Martin Brophy, Anthony Townsend, Mark Mackenzie, Claire Cahill, and my partner Ryan Parkins who have played vital roles this year. Thanks to Nicholas, Frankie, James, Pat and his boyfriend, Roger, Erik, Kevin, all the members of the band and choir. We managed to pull it together despite a lack of funds to begin with. I think we need to look at our fundraising efforts and develop a clearer strategy for next year. Thanks also to all the speakers and organisations that supported us on the night, especially actress Heather Peace who stepped in at the last minute to host the event. What a mix of people we had this year from the first openly gay Mayor of Camden Jonathan Simpson and his Mayoress the lovable Amy Lame, Rikki Beadle-Blair, David Watters, Peter Tatchell, Paul Burston, Paul Harfleet, Sue Sanders, Anne Novis and Clare Dimyon who has just been awarded an MBE for her work promoting good relations across Europe and Pride Solidarity.
It was good to promote the STOP HATE UK’s Helpline number 0800 138 1625 and I hope we see an increase in confidence when it comes to people reporting hate crime. We highlighted the good work of several campaigns and organisations including Enough is Enough, the Disability Hate Crime Network, GALOP, Lesbian and Gay Switchboard, Schools Out, LGBT History Month, A Day in Hand and the National Aids Trust. All these organisations need our support now more than ever in these tough times due to the pending spending cuts, support to protect these vital services, and to ensure that they are there for those that need them. Simple things can help – like signposting them on our profiles so that people know they exist and can easily find them. Thanks also to Matthew Deleany who organised the LGBT Police Liaison Officers who were present and James from Blue Medical who provided the medical cover for the event.
In particular I would like to highlight the support provided by Pink Punters (aka Rainbow Operations), which goes above and beyond any expectations that we had – their support for the community is truly amazing considering that they were also the main sponsors for London Pride and Brighton Pride this year, as well as supporting the Notting Hill Carnival and a host of other events around the county. It seems strange that a club so far away from London is doing so much to contribute to the success of this event in comparison with those based in London – but I think this just goes to show how wonderful the team of people involved in Rainbow Operations are. It was also great to have a number of bars supporting us this year, particularly in Vauxhall and Soho – especially Gary Henshaw who lent us chairs for the band. Kerry Chapman has provided us space at Barcode Vauxhall throughout the year for our monthly meetings. Thanks to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who helped us collect in the Square. Thanks also to the Dame Edna Experience who helped us raise £329.58 at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. Least we forget Wild Oats Productions who raised well over £500 through bucket collections at the end of their performances of The Laramie Project in Greenwich (if you’ve not heard about Matthew Shepherd then this is one show that you must see).
I was disappointed by the apparent lack of support by the Unions and hope that this is something that we can improve next year. It seems ironic that we had letters of support from the Prime Minster David Cameron, and the leader of the Opposition Ed Miliband but nothing at all from the leaders of the Trade Union movement who I would have expected to be there to support our common cause. I know that the Vigil is not a political event, but none the less it is an important act of remembrance of those we have lost, and those who have been affected by hate crime so I expected the Unions, and all political parties to be there in solidarity with us. Maybe we were dealing with the wrong representatives and need to speak to people higher up in the Unions next time. Despite this I hope we can improve communication and work together to build a more representative act of remembrance next year.
The highlight of the vigil for me, was being able to support people like Jen Baynham to make her first public speech about the loss of her brother Ian Baynham. That is what this event was really about, supporting those who have been affected directly by hate crime. I think we forget sometimes how important it is to support and enable the family and friends of those we’ve lost to gather and remember their loved ones. The reading of the poem about Nick Moore and David Morley (written by Nick Moore’s 9 year old niece) at the end of the Vigil was extremely moving. I regularly catch up with Carolyn Moore who supports the work we are doing to remember her brother Nick Moore, and ensure that we help educate people about what happened in Brixton, Brick Lane and Soho back in April 1999. 32 years after the assignation of Harvey Milk I was proud that Stuart Milk was able to join us in London to support our campaign for an annual International Day of Hope and Remembrance – not just for gay people but for all people that have been affected by Hate Crime.
It was comforting to listen to the way that people supported each other back stage, the manner in which Stuart talked to Jen about her loss. The way Minerva and Gaby looked after the speakers, the people that we had organised to support Heather in her role. The genuine warmth between people working together was incredible, almost electric. Hugs, smiles, kisses, cuddles, an arm around a shoulder, comforting words, even standing with someone on stage to support them as they found their own courage to speak. Moments which we can treasure and look back upon and seek comfort in as often as we need. That is what the vigil is about.
Another aspect of organising the Vigil that is often overlooked is how it empowers people to become involved. Through our open meetings, steward training events and acts of remembrance we are engaging the next generation of community activists and volunteers. Hopefully helping them gain the skills and experience that they can then take with them to support other community events. The volunteers who steward with us will help steward other community events. It is also encouraging to see new speakers like Alan Bailey from the National Union of Students LGBT Liberation Campaign gaining experience and confidence to speak out publicly on behalf of young LGBT people.
We would like to encourage feedback from people who attended the event this year, either through our Facebook group and pages or by e-mailing me directly mark@17-24-30.org. It is important that we look at how things went and what we can improve for next year. I know we did not raise as much money as we’d hope but still want to thank everyone who has donated and helped raised the funds we need to carry on our good work. We are still taking donations through the charities trust website. Hopefully with more funds next year we will be able to develop an even better event – there is still a lot of areas that we need to improve but I am still impressed by what we achieved this year.
I hope that we don’t stumble here. I know at times things were difficult and we made mistakes, went about things the wrong way. Damn at times we even upset each other. But working together we’ve also made a real difference, started a ripple which hopefully will go around the globe and change things for the better. Already we are seeing people post positve comments and pictures on-line, which is a good thing because it all helps spread the message. Lets talk, plan and improve things together. Thanks for all the hard work everyone put in.
Hope to see you at the Vigil next year.
Mark x
—————————————-
Mark Healey
Founder/Trustee
17-24-30 No to Hate Crime Campaign
Studio 151 – 77 Beak Street, London W1F 9DM
Email mark@17-24-30.org Website www.17-24-30.com
To allow us to keep the vigil free please donate using the following link
http://www.charitiestrust.org/charities/17-24-30/index.html
VIGIL – Saturday 23rd October 2010: ORDER OF EVENTS
I will be speaking at VIGIL 2010, Trafalgar Square, London 23rd October, 7pm – 9pm, 2 minute Silence: 8pm.
OTHER SPEAKERS INCLUDE: PAUL BURSTON, PETER TATCHELL AND STUART MILK. PLEASE BE THERE AND JOIN OUR commUNITY
“This is not a time for silence but a time to take personal responsibility, to speak out and to share our humanity; because the most deadly of all possible sins is the mutilation of the spirit and YOU, as much as anyone, can influence real social change.”
RUNNING ORDER
19h Monteverde Vespers – Choir & LGSW
19h04 Introduction
19h10 Mark Healey, Jenny Baynham, Lynne Featherstone, Peter Tatchell, Rose Simkins
19h22 Londonderry Air – LGSW
19h28 Rikki Beadle-Blair, Anthony Townsend, Fiona Harvey, Lou Hart, Debbie Gold
19h40 Paul Harfleet, David Watters,
19h45 Outline silence / Roll call / Music Nimrod – LGSW
20h00 2 Minutes silence
20h03 Roll call of victims: Jonathan Simpson
20h07 Deep River – Choir
20h15 Stuart Milk
20h25 Richard Barnes, Tessa Havers-Strong, Sue Sanders, Paul Burston
20h35 Here’s where I Stand – Choir & LGSW
20h40 Anne Novis, Claire Dimyon, Emma Peat, David Watkins, Caroline Lucas
20h50 Final announcements & Poem
20h55 Make your own kind of Music – Choir & LGSW
21h00 End
LAST YEAR’S VIGIL WAS ATTENDED BY APPROXIMATELY 10,000 PEOPLE:
I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE TOMORROW.
In light of all the recent suicides, this is an event which is hugely important and also relevant to ALL COMMUNITIES. Your support for our event is vital and will go a long way towards helping the public to show solidarity and a commitment to embracing diversity, tackle all forms of bigotry and create real social change.
Could you please post this press release wherever you can; on your website, myspace etc and help make this year’s No to Hate Campaign even more successful than last year?
ORGANISERS:
Website: www.17-24-30.com
Mailbox: Facebook group 17-24-30, Studio 151, 77 Beak Street, Soho, W1F 9DB
17-24-30 was founded by Mark Healey in the 2009 in the lead up to the 10th Anniversary of the London Nail Bomb attacks.
Mark wanted to provide a space on-line where as many people as possible could come together to mark the anniversaries of the three London nail bomb attacks in 1999.
“17-24-30″ represents the three dates that the nail bombs were left in Brixton (17th), Brick Lane (24th) and Soho (30th) targeting the black, Asian and gay communities of London.
The campaign has four objectives – to bring people together, to build relationships between communities, to support those who have been attacked and to challenge all forms of hate crime.
Many thanks in anticipation
Best wishes, David Equality Watters
INVITE DAVID TO SPEAK:
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Invite-DAVID-To-Speak-.html
David has worked internationally as both a singer and director for more than 20 years and has taught drama and music within socially and culturally diverse settings.
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute.
As a teacher, David has worked in both the public and private sectors. His focus has been on inclusion with regard to Special Educational Needs and the development of Creative Partnerships.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
His background in the arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT and his passion for Equality Advocacy make him a creative and innovative program planner, facilitator and public speaker.
FEES ARE NEGOTIABLE
EQUALITY ADVOCACY EVENTS ARE FREE
AVAILABLE NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY
FOR MORE ON DAVID’S BACKGROUND CLICK HERE
PRESS RELEASE – 2 DAYS TO GO
I will be speaking at VIGIL 2010, Trafalgar Square, London 23rd October, 7pm – 9pm, 2 minute Silence : 8pm.
OTHER SPEAKERS INCLUDE: PAUL BURSTON, PETER TATCHELL AND STUART MILK. PLEASE BE THERE AND JOIN OUR commUNITY.
THIS EVENT IS FOR VICTIMS/ SURVIVORS OF ALL FORMS OF HATE CRIME AND FOR ALL WHO BELIEVE IN TRUE SOCIAL EQUALITY.
Website: www.17-24-30.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Candle-lit Vigil against Hate-Crime
Last year, on 30 October 2009, 10,000 people descended on Trafalgar Square to commemorate the first International Day against Hate Crime.
The event was organised by the visionary 17-24-30 founder Mark Healey in the lead up to the 10th Anniversary of the 1999 London Nail Bomb attacks where nail bombs were left in Brixton (17th), Brick Lane (24th) and Soho (30th) targeting the black, Asian and gay communities of London.
This year’s vigil will be held on Saturday 23rd October from 7pm – 9pm in Trafalgar Square, with a 2 minute silence at 8pm, and will include notable speakers including Peter Tatchell, Sandi Toksvig and Harvey Milk’s eloquent and inspirational nephew, Stuart Milk.
The Candle-lit Vigil aims to unify and galvanise ALL individuals and communities who share a vision to eradicate bigoted behaviour and, through showing support for ALL victims of Hate Crime, publicly assert that together they will no longer be ineffective minorities but instead a powerful and united voice to affect change in London and the wider world.
In order for us to effectively tackle prejudice-based crimes we all must engage in actions which address discriminatory attitudes in every area of our society; our schools and universities, our workplaces, our communities and our shopping malls.
Each and every one of us has an obligation to take responsibility for making our society safer, fairer and more inclusive and we should not rely on the good will and hard work of others to secure that just and equal society, whilst complaining that we ourselves are powerless. Whatever your strengths, whatever your core character traits, there is something that you can do to influence change in the world and by attending this vigil, the public can show solidarity and a commitment to embracing diversity, tackling bigotry and creating real social change.
Mark Healey, organiser of the vigil, is acutely aware that there are common causes which connect us all said: “We are remembering all victims of hate-crime. Harvey Milk said, ‘you have got to give them hope’ and I think that ‘hope’ is what this event is about. Hope that we can work together and put an end to all forms of hate-crime.”
Similar events will be taking place in Norwich and Brighton and in Vancouver on Oct 23rd there will also be a No to Hate Crime Vigil of “Hope and Remembrance” – borrowing from London’s terminology and deliberately recognising that they are a solidarity event with London.
“For those unable to attend, in the UK and throughout the world, we are asking that they light their own candles of hope, and observe the two minute silence at 8pm on Saturday 23rd October. People are invited to take part on-line, by posting photos of their candles on Facebook tagged with the names of those who gather with them. We want to make this a worldwide day of remembrance, hope and action.”
For more details go to: http://www.17-24-30.com
Follow us on Facebook ’17-24-30’ and Twitter ’HateCrimeVigil’
NOTES FOR THE EDITOR
Contacts:
Ryan Parkins, Vigil Co-ordinator
Email: ryan@17-24-30.org
Website: www.17-24-30.com
Mailbox: Facebook group 17-24-30, Studio 151, 77 Beak Street, Soho, W1F 9DB
17-24-30 was founded by Mark Healey in the 2009 in the lead up to the 10th Anniversary of the London Nail Bomb attacks.
Mark wanted to provide a space on-line where as many people as possible could come together to mark the anniversaries of the three London nail bomb attacks in 1999.
“17-24-30″ represents the three dates that the nail bombs were left in Brixton (17th), Brick Lane (24th) and Soho (30th) targeting the black, Asian and gay communities of London.
The campaign has four objectives – to bring people together, to build relationships between communities, to support those who have been attacked and to challenge all forms of hate crime.
INSTITUTIONALIZED HOMOPHOBIA….A PERSONAL STORY
A letter to Watchdog…a last ditch attempt to ask my housing association to accept responsibility for 3 years of homophobic harassment by a drug dealing neighbour.
Institutionalised homophobia DOES exist and we should NEVER be complacent….we have a long way to go before we see a cultural shift in the perception of the LGBT community.
On the surface, it seems that society has grown more “accepting”, note the inverted commas, of the LGBT (QI) community but this, in itself, still suggests that “acceptance” is required, that we are “less than” and that our VALUE is based upon the judgment of others. What?
ALL the “ism’s” still exist and, YES, ALL prejudices have equal importance, require of us to remain vigilant and ALL must be actively challenged.
Bigoted behaviour occurs in many different ways and can range, as YOU know, from subtle to malicious and even if Bigotry is, in theory, being addressed in the law, in policy and in procedure within schools and in the workplace, culturally the progress is much slower.
Those who hold beliefs about any specific group in society will not change those perceptions because of any law or policy.
Our physical safety was disregarded and our property stolen and damaged, yet our housing association took no real effective action.
YOU HAVE TO LAUGH AT THE HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS LOGO:
CREATING PLACES WHERE PEOPLE WANT TO LIVE
THE EMAIL TO WATCHDOG
I am writing to ask for an investigation into the failure of London and Quadrant to deal with drug dealing, homophobic neighbours who continually harrassed my partner and I for over 3 years.
Specific complaints are about Housing Officer, C McF.
Failure to deal with mouse infestation caused as a result of neighbours living in squalid conditions has meant damage to property costing over £2000.
In short, it is agreed, with MP Nick Raynsford, that an offer of £250 as “a gesture of good will” does not begin to cover the 3 years of torment (theft of mail, damage to property, daily verbal abuse, rodent infestation, criminal activity – 2 armed robberies)endured by my partner and myself, the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of certain staff (C McF in particular), the very real and serious risk to our physical safety, the impact upon our mental health as a result of this drawn out procedure and, if the neighbours had decided to stay we would still be in the same circumstances.
In short, it is agreed, with MP Nick Raynsford, that an offer of £250 as “a gesture of good will” does not begin to cover the 3 years of torment (theft of mail, damage to property, daily verbal abuse, rodent infestation, criminal activity – 2 armed robberies)endured by my partner and myself, the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of certain staff (C McF in particular), the very real and serious risk to our physical safety, the impact upon our mental health as a result of this drawn out procedure and, if the neighbours had decided to stay we would still be in the same circumstances.
MENTAL HEALTH
I have been diagnosed with Depression.
First diagnosed as anxiety/stress on 31/5/08 when neighbours began abusive behaviour, having escaped consequences of stealing mail.
I have now been prescribed Paroxetine tablets (20mg) to tackle sleeplessness, social anxiety and panic attacks.
DAMAGE TO PROPERTY
The damage to property alone is more than £2000 and this in the first instance should be addressed since L&Q were aware of the rodent infestation but made no real effort to help. We live on the first floor and it is only because of our neighbours squalid living conditions that we became infested. Damage includes: sofa and chair (approx £1500), pure wool carpet (£400), new bed (£250).
We did everything in our power to eradicate the problem (wire wool, wood filler, environmental health) but our efforts were futile since the neighbours did nothing to deal with the problem below.
There were 3 months where the neighbours did not live at their address and L&Q were notified of this; giving them the right to access the property and deal with the mice.
PHYSICAL RISK
The time that Miss McF took to implement safety strategies in our home did not follow correct procedures since, after a second armed robbery at the neighbours due to their drug dealing, Miss McF took 21 days to have any work done to make us feel secure. The neighbours were clearly in fear of their safety as they immediately left the property (May 1st 2010) yet we were left vulnerable and unprotected.
I was informed by Operations Manager, Mr F that this should have been dealt with in 24 hours and that we should have been viewed as vulnerable tenants.
I have attached an extensive document of all emails sent and the few responses received over the past 2 years.
The offer of £250 in compensation as a “good will gesture” is frankly insulting and further compounds our belief in L&Q’s lack of care for tenants.
My concern is that London and Quadrant employees fail to take homophobic behaviour and anti-social behaviour seriously; lip sevice is paid and boxes are ticked but the process has taken longer than necessary considering the considerable log of evidence we have provided, the numerous occassions we have met with, emailed or spoken on the telephone with L&Q.
My concern is that London and Quadrant employees fail to take homophobic behaviour and anti-social behaviour seriously; lip sevice is paid and boxes are ticked but the process has taken longer than necessary considering the considerable log of evidence we have provided, the numerous occassions we have met with, emailed or spoken on the telephone with L&Q.
This indicates, to my partner and I, a level of institutionalised or, at best, personal homophobia within the Housing Association which needs to be addressed.
I can send images of mice running freely in our living room damage to property and photographs taken of the neighbours home after he had left the property (some included in the attached document).
I also have a voice recording of neighbour admitting theft and one of the son admitting knowledge of who had attempted an armed burglary on their property (and ours) which C McF refused to listen to.
We have been continually disrespected and disregarded by London and Quadrant and are again insulted and bemused by the offer of £250 to compensate; they refuse to take any responsibility and call this a “good will gesture”.
David Watters
HOW THE NEIGHBOURS CHOSE TO LIVE
CROSS SCRATCHED ON OUR LETTERBOX AND DOOR
MICE IN OUR HOME…ALL TAKEN IN ONE EVENING
We can no longer wait for another Harvey Milk to follow or rely on the Peter Tatchell’s of this world, the pioneers, the visionaries, to fight our fight; but instead must learn ways to be tenacious, tireless and determined advocates for social equality ourselves.
We must, ourselves, find the strength, resolve and determination to lead and influence the change we want to see, to bring hope to those who have none. Somehow in some way we too can be capable of great things.
As Harvey Milk said, “I know that you cannot live on hope alone, but without it, life is not worth living. And you… And you… And you… Gotta give em hope.”
IF YOU LIVE IN THE UK AND HAVE PROBLEMS WITH YOUR ACCOMODATION YOU CAN CONTACT THE INDEPENDENT HOUSING OMBUDSMAN:
Write to
Housing Ombudsman Service
81 Aldwych
London
WC2B 4HN
Housing Ombudsman Service
81 Aldwych
London
WC2B 4HN
Telephone
0300 111 3000
Minicom
020 7404 7092
Fax
020 7831 1942
GET EMPOWERED…BE THERE
David will be speaking at VIGIL 2010
Trafalgar Square, London 23rd October
7pm – 9pm
2 minute Silence : 8pm
OTHER SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
SANDI TOKSVIG,
PETER TATCHELL AND STUART MILK
17-24-30 is a non-profit organisation run completely by volunteers. Our primary focus is to remember and mark the anniversaries of the London Nail Bomb Attacks on Brixton, Brick Lane and Soho and to support the communities that were attacked to unite people against all forms of Hate Crime.
DAVID SAYS:
“This is not a time for silence but a time to take personal responsibility, to speak out and to share our humanity; because the most deadly of all possible sins is the mutilation of the spirit and YOU, as much as anyone, can influence real social change.”
Invite DAVID To Speak!
David has worked internationally as both a singer and director for more than 20 years and has taught drama and music within socially and culturally diverse settings.
Since graduating from The Institute of Education, University of London, David has gone on to train with LEAP, as a mediator, and is a qualified facilitator for The Pacific Institute.
As a teacher, David has worked in both the public and private sectors. His focus has been on inclusion with regard to Special Educational Needs and the development of Creative Partnerships.
David, who regularly writes for www.ambiente.us, One Nation and Polari, has been championed by Stuart Milk, nephew of Harvey Milk and Equality Advocate, who has said: “I love your work, which is vital to show the richness of embracing and celebrating our wonderful diversity. As Harvey would say, you’re bringing medicine into the world that the world needs! Thank you!”
His background in the arts and education, combined with a solid understanding of CBT and his passion for Equality Advocacy make him a creative and innovative program planner, facilitator and public speaker.
CONTACT INFORMATION
TELEPHONE: 07800813189
IT GETS BETTER…
IT REALLY DOES
PLEASE PASS THIS ON AND SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS OR FAMILY …WITH SOMEONE WHO MAY NOT BELIEVE THAT LIFE CAN GET BETTER…
WHY POST THIS?
California boy on life support after suicide attempt — another case of anti-gay bullying
LGBTQ Nation • Sunday, September 26, 2010
A California boy remains in critical condition and on life support after he attempted to hang himself last week in what friends and neighbors describe as another case of anti-gay bullying. Police and school officials are investigating the attempted suicide of 13-year-old Seth Walsh of Tehachapi, a town 40 miles east of Bakersfield.
Walsh was found Sunday, September 19, unconscious and not breathing, and it appeared he had tried to hang himself from a tree branch, according to police reports. He was rushed by helicopter to Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield.
According to reports, Walsh is openly gay and was taunted by bullies for years, at school and at a local park. [KGET-TV] Walsh attended Jacobsen Middle School last year and for only two weeks this year, before being transferred to independent study — reportedly because he had been bullied relentlessly. But school officials at Tehachapi Union School District claim there have been no reports of bullying. “The circumstances which led to Seth’s current condition are neither his family’s nor his friend’s focus at this time,” the Walsh family said in a statement earlier this week. “Seth’s family is simply requesting respect for their privacy, positive support and prayers for Seth!” The statement continued: “A negative action … by adults and children … will not solve or help anyone! Violence is not the answer! Please everyone, be kind and love one another!”
This is the second reported teen suicide attempt this month due to anti-gay bullying. On September 9, 15-year-old Billy Lucas of Greensburg, IN, hanged himself at his grandmother’s home. Friends of Lucas said that he had been tormented for years based on his perceived sexual orientation. Earlier this month, GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, announced that its 2009 survey of 7,261 middle and high school students found that at school nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students experienced harassment at school in the past year and nearly two-thirds felt unsafe because of their sexual orientation. And just days ago, in response to Lucas’ suicide, Seattle-based activist and author Dan Savage launched a YouTube channel, the “It Gets Better Project” to provide support and encouragement to LGBT teens struggling with bullying and adversity.
NBI for Schools & Colleges
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/NBI-for-Schools—Colleges.html
NBI for Businesses
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/NBI-for-Businesses.html
CREATIVE CHALLENGE DAYS FOR PERFORMERS
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/CREATIVE-CHALLENGE-DAYS.html
Invite DAVID To Speak!
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Invite-DAVID-To-Speak-.html
EMAIL: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
TELEPHONE: 07800813189
VIGIL, TRAFALGAR SQUARE – 23 OCTOBER 2010
I WILL BE SPEAKING AT THE EVENT AS WILL MANY OTHERS (NOT SURE IF I CAN SAY WHO YET…)
A PRESS RELEASE WILL FOLLOW SOON SO THIS IS JUST A GENTLE NUDGE AHEAD OF TIME.
17-24-30 is a non-profit organisation run completely by volunteers.Our primary focus is to remember and mark the anniversaries of the London Nail Bomb Attacks on Brixton, Brick Lane and Soho and to support the communities that were attacked to unite people against all forms of Hate Crime.
April 17th, 1999. BRIXTON. 39 men, women and children injured.April 24th, 1999. BRICK LANE. 6 men and women injured.April 30th, 1999. The Admiral Duncan, SOHO. 65 men and women injured. 3 killed.
17-24-30 represents the three dates three different communities were separately attacked, but which have brought us closer together.The London Nail Bombers agenda was simple yet terrifying; he intended to light a spark that would ignite a violent reaction from minority communities and lead to an all-out race war, culminating in the coming to power of the right-wing British National Party.17-24-30 is attempting to create a space on FACEBOOK and the web where people can respectfully express their thoughts, share their experiences and reflect upon the good work that is being done within our communities.We are attempting to signpost services and information. It is hoped that this will inspire and encourage more people to get involved and be positively creative within the world we share.
We will not forget 17-24-30.
VIGIL 2010 – Trafalgar Square, London23rd October
7pm – 9pm [2 minute Silence : 8pm]
We are raising funds to help us cover the costs of the Vigil in Trafalgar Square and help us to reach out to more people affected by Hate Crime in the communities we live in.To make a donation simply click on the CHARITIES TRUST LOGO ON THIS PAGE: http://www.17-24-30.com/index.htm
NBI for Schools & Colleges
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/NBI-for-Schools—Colleges.html
NBI for Businesses
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/NBI-for-Businesses.html
CREATIVE CHALLENGE DAYS FOR PERFORMERS
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/CREATIVE-CHALLENGE-DAYS.html
Invite DAVID To Speak!
http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Invite-DAVID-To-Speak-.html
EMAIL: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
TELEPHONE: 07800813189
NEVER BLEND IN
A PRO-EQUALITY BLOG, written by Diversity Specialist, writer and motivational speaker David E Watters (NBI ASSOCIATES).
Articles on Equality & Diversity, Personal & Professional Development, Education & Management; his book, NEVER BLEND IN (http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Never-Blend-In.html), and the Give 'em Hope Campaign http://www.nbiassociates.co.uk/Give--em-Hope-Campaign.html)
EMAIL: DavidWatters@nbiassociates.co.uk
SKYPE: never.blend.in
