Arts

What are we doing about gaybashing?

Queer leaders discuss hate crimes

By Nathaniel Christopher • February 27, 2008 7:00 pm EDT

WHEN WILL HATE CRIMES STOP? 'I just can't believe, 20 years apart, these two exact crimes happened,' said Denise Norman, Aaron Webster's cousin.

Following the Feb 23 performance of Steel Kiss, a panel of queer leaders discussed homophobia and gaybashing.

Steel Kiss is based on the 1985 murder of Kenneth Zeller, a Toronto gay man. The play had profound resonance with a community that hasn’t forgotten the 2001 murder of Aaron Webster.

Speakers included Jim Deva (owner of Little Sister’s bookstore), Allan Zeller (Kenneth Zeller’s brother), Denise Norman (Aaron Webster’s cousin), Peter Toppings (LGTB Centre education and outreach co-ordinator), Ross Johnstone (Out in Schools), and Steve Mulligan, (Anti-homophobia and Diversity Consultant, Vancouver School Board).

Check out Xtra.ca’s video report below:

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