RISC, or Reading International Support Centre, have produced a comprehensive training pack covering the history of lesbian and gay movements internationally. The pack consists of 120 pull-out pages covering the experience of lesbians and gays in countries as diverse as Pakistan, Columbia and Ireland. Sections on 'Youth Work', 'Activities' and 'Resources' complement the information about lesbian and gay lives.
This is a very readable document, which succeeds in portraying the positive aspects of gay lives as well as dispelling the myths and lies that surround lesbian and gay cultures. Whilst much of what we read is distressing, (be it police brutality in Turkey, or death squads in Columbia,) there is a wry humour which appears on occasions.
The primary use of this publication however will be for any person involved in training. All the information is easily copyable, well laid out and accessible. It is both challenging and supportive and raises questions which need to be asked if the quality of life for lesbian and gay people is to improve.
Nigel Larcombe
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