Prince
William has taken part in a session on bullying and homophobia in schools, in
which he specifically spoke out against homophobia for the first time.
The future
King visited Hammersmith Academy today, to take part in a session with pupils
to provide practical tips to prevent anti-LGBT bullying, and cyber bullying.
Though the
Royal Family are involved in hundreds of charities, they are almost
never seen to be embracing the cause of LGBT rights.
Given the
Monarch’s role as head of the Commonwealth, and as 90%
of Commonwealth citizens still live under anti-gay laws, the Royals
generally avoid all reference to gay equality. No Royals have ever spoken
in favour of same-sex marriage.
However,
Prince William actively spoke out against homophobia in the visit,
alongside Education Secretary and Equalities minister Nicky Morgan.
Joining a
session on LGBT issues, the students were asked how they would react to
homophobic bullying. The Duke of Cambridge indicated he would confront those
behind any comments and comfort the victims.
Referring to
a chart of how to tackle homophobia, he said: “I would start on that side [comfort the
victim and end up here [confront the bully].”
After a
student said they would confront a homophobe, the Duke added: “As the
young man said, I would try to confront.”
He also
appeared in front of a sign displaying ‘LGBT’ in rainbow letters in a number of
pictures.
“He
particularly likes the idea of a peer-led support network to prevent any child
or young person suffering in silence.”
It may be the
first time he’s spoken out about LGBT rights in public, but in private he
has privately served alongside a transgender RAF pilot in the
past.
The Diana
Award aims to identify and develop young people, as well as engaging them in
social action.
Patrons of
the charity include David Cameron, Esther Rantzen, Sinitta and Carrie
Grant.
Thank you for sharing this my naked blogging brother! Great news about your future king! Much love and naked hugs, buddy!
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