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Copy of letter from Simon Maddrell to Clare Barber MHK for Isle of Pride

Date(s): 21 June 2022

Creator(s): Maddrell, Simon

Scope & Content: In this typescript letter headed 'IOM Police: Pride and Apology' Simon Maddrell thanks Clare Barber for the opportunity to share his perspective on the campaign for a formal apology from the Isle of Man Constabulary for their actions, policies and practices as regards to the treatment of gay and bisexual men, in particular during the period 1986-1992 - especially 1992. He notes that he writes from the perspective of a gay, queer man who, as a poet, has done extensive research into the subject and has personal experience of the policing record of Robin Oake the Chief Constable 1986-1989, 'LGBTQ+ advocates such as myself, Alan Shea and Peter Tatchell argue tha tthe IOM Police polices, practices and actions were at best egregious and at worst, assuming the many public domain testimonies are true, illegal. This is what deserves an unqualified apology'.

In support of this stance Maddrell sets out in seven bullet points several facts and claims in the public domain. He continues by noting publically expressed homophobic opinions of James Anderton, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester 1975-1991 for whom Robin Oake worked previously and writes 'James Anderton and Robin Oake were clearly biased in their police policies because of their personal moral and religious opinions. In the case of the Isle of Man, apart from ruining relationships and the mental health of many, it is clear that the actions of the police contributed to several gay & bi men taking their own lives'.

Language: English

Extent: 3 pages

Item name: letter

Collection: Manuscript Archive

Level: ITEM

ID number: MS 15228

Record class: Private

Access conditions: No regulations or restrictions are implemented on this material. Viewable by request during library opening hours at the Manx National Heritage Library and Archives, Manx Museum, Douglas, Isle of Man. Advance notification of a research visit is advisable by emailing library@mnh.im

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