Expel homophobic bullying from schools by walking for equality in Barcelona
And win a weekend in New York if you're top fundraiser!
Stonewall's Education for All campaign is raising funds by encouraging people to sign-up to the Barcelona Equality Walk on 11-13 July 2008.
The Walk is in support of Stonewall's Education for All programme, tackling homophobic bullying in Britain's schools. Stonewall's School Report, published last year, found that 65 per cent of young lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils in secondary schools have experienced homophobic bullying. Ninety seven per cent hear insulting homophobic remarks at school, such as 'poof,' 'dyke,' and 'queer.' One in three gay pupils report that it's actually adults who are responsible for homophobic incidents in their schools.
To help improve life for young gay people, Stonewall is urging people to join this year's Barcelona Equality Walk. Education for All's new slogan 'Some people are gay. Get over it!' has been embraced by politicians and celebrities alike. All the frontrunners for London Mayor supported the campaign at Stonewall's Mayoral Hustings and it featured recently on Hollyoaks, where character Kris Fisher wore the slogan on his t-shirt.
This year, guests will once again be staying at the gorgeous, hetero-friendly Axel Hotel. They'll be welcomed with a pool party on the Friday. Saturday is the 10k equality walk and treasure hunt, a fun way of taking in all the fabulous sights of Barcelona. The day finishes with a prize-giving ceremony for the best treasure hunters and fundraisers. This year's top fundraiser will receive a very impressive prize - two business class tickets to New York, kindly donated by BA, and the fantastic 4* Royalton Hotel has generously donated two nights accommodation. Finally, Sunday is your free day - but we arrange an optional social brunch.
Ben Summerskill, Stonewall Chief Executive, said: 'Twenty years ago this summer, Section 28 was introduced. I can think of no better way to mark this significant anniversary than by encouraging gay and lesbian people to walk for equality in an act of solidarity and optimism that the next generation's attitudes will be fostered to be more accepting than the last.'
Michaela Greene, Deputy Fundraising Director, said: 'If the sponsorship seems a lot to raise, fear not - we've got loads of ideas to help you out. This has worked really well for participants from previous years who initially thought they'd have problems reaching their fundraising targets - but exceeded them after taking on ideas from our weekly fundraising bulletins. Just give us a call on 020 7593 1874!'
The 10k walk is ideal for people who want to sign up in a group, or on their own as many walkers come to make new friends. Signing up couldn't be easier - simply pay the £300 non-returnable registration fee and raise a suggested £400 in sponsorship, or fundraise for the full amount. The registration fee covers all flights, accommodation, transfers and social events.
For further information on the walk please contact michaela.greene@stonewall.org.uk / 020 7593 1874 or log on to www.stonewall.org.uk/barcelona
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