Gay cake' appeal: Christian bakers Ashers lose appeal

[barryqwalsh]

The Christian owners of a Northern Ireland bakery have lost their appeal against a ruling that their refusal to make a "gay cake" was discriminatory.

Appeal court judges said that, under law, the bakers were not allowed to provide a service only to people who agreed with their religious beliefs.


'Gay cake' appeal: Christian bakers Ashers lose appeal - BBC News

 

[barryqwalsh]

This issue will be discussed today on BBC RADIO ULSTER TALKBACK at 12 Noon, local time.

You can listen online

Talkback - BBC Radio Ulster

 

[gtopa1]

The LAW is wrong. Legal does not mean moral. I support the cake shop.

Greg

 

[barryqwalsh]

Ashers Baking Company - The Christian Institute

 

[barryqwalsh]

Mr McArthur replied: "Certainly the Bible hasn't changed, and its teachings on marriage haven't changed, and there's many other Christians our age who believe that as well."


'Gay cake' bakers: We feel 'victimised'

 

[barryqwalsh]

 

[barryqwalsh]

Meanwhile the McArthurs' received support from gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell.

Mr Tatchell said: "This verdict is a defeat for freedom of expression.

"As well as meaning that Ashers can be legally forced to aid the promotion of same-sex marriage against their wishes, it also implies that gay bakers could be forced by law to decorate cakes with homophobic slogans."


'Gay cake' bakers: We feel 'victimised'

 

[barryqwalsh]

Imagine how all this time and money could be better spent. Are there no gay teenagers in Belfast who are being bullied at school? No gay adults with substance abuse problems, stemming from the shame that was drummed into them by Christian parents? No Ulster churches, even, with leaking roofs? All of them might welcome a little help. But no. This money and effort was all poured into a squabble about a cake.

Despite the absurdity, though, this case raises some important political and democratic principles.


As a gay man, I'm horrified that Christian bakers are being forced to surrender their beliefs