Overcoming Hate: The Legacy of a Homophobic Attack in 1988

Kevin Crowe, a victim of a homophobic attack in 1988, has seen significant progress in tackling discrimination and promoting equality since then, including the repeal of Section 28 and the introduction of hate crime laws.

In 1988, Kevin Crowe was a victim of a homophobic attack in the height of the HIV/AIDS panic and following the introduction of Section 28, which restricted services for homosexuals. The assault left him with physical and mental scars. One of his attackers was identified, charged, and prosecuted.

Since then, significant progress has been made, including the repeal of Section 28, advanced treatment for HIV/AIDS, and the implementation of hate crime laws. The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act, effective from April 2024, aims to protect individuals from speech or written material that threatens or incites violence, preserving freedom of speech while setting a high bar for prosecution.