Inspiring and essential

Ballot Measure 9
ABC TV
Wednesday, March 20, 8.30pm (8 in SA)
Reviewed by Jen Crothers Coming two weeks after the ABC's coverage of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Ballot Measure 9 is a reminder that the fight for equal rights is yet to be won. Ballot Measure 9 was an initiative by the Oregon Citizens Alliance to amend the state constitution so that it could be legal to discriminate against homosexuals. The OCA also wanted all government agencies and schools to recognise homosexuality as "abnormal, wrong, unnatural and perverse". The irrationality and lies of the religious right are extremely frightening, particularly as many of these ideas are being propagated today in Tasmania by TasAlert. This documentary presents both sides as they are, allowing the radical right to expose itself entirely. Fortunately, the fight back is highly organised and totally inspiring. People from all walks of life "came out", not just gays and lesbians. Parents, friends, strangers all "came out" to support gay and lesbian equal rights. Significantly, people saw the attack in its broader context and hence many alliances were made with groups such as the black and Jewish communities. Though the OCA denied any responsibility, hate crimes against gays, lesbians and "No on 9" supporters escalated in the weeks before the vote. The violence in the community will turn your stomach and make you cry. This film should be shown in all high schools. Essential viewing.

From GLW issue 223