Sunday, December 21, 2008

McKellen Criticises Faith Schools for Religious Teaching

THE GUARDIAN: Gay actor fears children are being taught homosexuality is a sin

The actor Sir Ian McKellen has said he fears that a growing number of faith schools are preaching religious doctrines — such as teaching that homosexuality is a sin — inside the classroom, giving children a "second-class" education.

The stage and screen actor has been touring UK schools this month to discuss homosexuality with pupils in the hope that it will reduce homophobia.

McKellen came out as gay on BBC radio 20 years ago, aged 49.

Speaking during a visit to Welling school in Kent, he said: "It worries me that there is an increasing number of faith schools in this country where it might be thought appropriate for religious views to invade the classroom.

"If that's happening, those kids are getting a second-class education."

He praised Welling, which is not a faith school, for being "one of the best in confronting homophobia". >>> Jessica Shepherd | Saturday, December 20, 2008

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