Schools urged to recognise homosexual rights

Gays and lesbians take to the streets of Berne last year to demand equal rights Keystone

Homosexuality should no longer be a taboo subject in schools, according to Switzerland's gay and lesbian associations. They have just launched a campaign to increase awareness of homosexuality among schoolchildren and teachers.

The campaign, launched to coincide with “Coming Out Day” on Wednesday, aims to address what the Pink Cross and the Swiss Lesbian Organisation say is schools’ failure to provide support to young gays and lesbians.

They say that no information on the subject is available in schools, and cite a recent study, which says as many as a quarter of all homosexual adolescents attempt suicide.

The problems faced by homosexual teachers are just as great, the groups argue. They say gay teachers fear dismissal if they are open about their sexuality.

A letter campaign, organised by the gay groups, calls on homosexuals to share their experiences at school. The letters will be sent to teachers, school directors and education departments.

swissinfo with agencies