Homophobic Lyrics

This Conference believes that musicians whose lyrics contain incitements to violence and murder contribute significantly towards the climate of brutal homophobia in Jamaica. These artists glorify the killing of lesbian and gay people, which makes life intolerable for many lesbian and gay Jamaicans in a society where homosexuality is outlawed. Whilst we support free speech, even by homophobic hate-mongers, we draw the line at incitements to murder, which is, quite simply, against the law. This Conference calls on the Executive Council to 1) Join the campaign to stop this hatred spreading to the UK, through the TUC General Council and affiliates. 2) Write to the Jamaican High Commissioner in the UK expressing the concerns of Fire Brigades Union members as these acts of hatred spread homophobia in both society and the Fire Service. 3) Write to the UK Government Minister responsible for international affairs to express our grave concerns and to establish what, if anything, they are doing to stop this vile hatred. 4) Work together with Amnesty International to build links with the Lesbian,Gay, Bi-Sexual & Transsexual Networks in Jamaica to show solidarity for those people who are suffering at the hands of these vile hate-mongers who pose as musicians.