Sir Ian McKellen is concerned over the growth of religious schools that preach religious doctrines, such as the belief that homosexuality is a sin. Sir Ian McKellen, who came out as gay more than 20 years ago, has been touring UK schools to discuss homosexuality with pupils in the hopes that it will reduce homophobia. During a visit to Welling school in Kent, McKellen praised the school for being one of the best in confronting homophobia within its walls while also expressing worries that a growing number of faith schools are teaching religious beliefs in the classroom. According to McKellen, if faith schools are being used to enforce particular religious views upon students, then these children are receiving an inferior education. Regarding the stance of religion towards homosexuality, McKellen stated that teachers in all schools should abandon the teaching of their church as it is often cruel and misplaced.
In light of his beliefs, McKellen said that the gay rights lobby group Stonewall, which he helped to create 19 years ago, should visit mosques, synagogues, and churches to spread positive messages about homosexuality. He noted that religion is the one area where people are not ashamed to be openly homophobic. He suggested that these religious entities could benefit from Stonewall’s visit and that it could passively result in reduced homophobia. McKellen also accused the Anglican church of homophobia during the church’s row with the consecration of a gay bishop in 2003. The row pushed the church to the brink of a schism.
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