- Music
- 13 Jun 07
A number of high-profile reggae acts have signed a pledge to stop releasing homophobic songs.
The agreement, called The Reggae Compassionate Act, has been signed by Beenie Man, Sizzla and Capleton. All three artists have previously released anti-gay songs, some of which suggested murdering homosexuals.
This agreement comes after tremendous pressure from gay-rights groups such as Outrage! and the Stop Music Murder campaign.
Stop Murder Music in particular has tried to have these artists' concerts and sponsorship deals torn up because of their prejudiced views.
Although this is seen as a step in the right direction, activists remain disappointed that other acts such as Elephant Man, TOK, Bounty Killa, Vybz Kartel and Buju Banton have yet to sign the act, which promises to "respect and uphold the rights of all individuals to live without violence due to their religion, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity or gender."