Steps reject gig over sexuality clause - 'The LGBTQ+ community is treated so horrendously'
Steps turned down a show in Dubai over a contract clause regarding sexuality
PA
Steps turned down a show in Dubai over a contract clause regarding sexuality, band member Ian "H" Watkins has said.
The band were told they were not allowed to mention sexuality if they were to play the gig in the Middle East.
Watkins, who is openly gay, said he was at a point in his life where morals were more important than a "pot of gold gig".
He added he was "emotional" that he had not spoken up sooner and wished he had had "the guts" to do so.
Watkins, who is openly gay, said he was at a point in his life where morals were more important than a 'pot of gold gig'
PA
"This week we were offered a gig, a show, and it was in a country where there's lots of oppression, where the LGBTQ+ community is treated so horrendously," he told Bobbi Pickard, chief executive of Trans in the city.
"And in the contract it said 'no mention of sexuality' and that really jarred with me.
"I'm at a point in my life now where my morals and what I strive for is more important that that pot of gold gig was in Dubai," he said.
Watkins said he gave his reasons for not wanting to perform.
He said: "It's because of all the horrendous human rights issues that are happening there."
It is illegal to be homosexual in Dubai.
Pickard added: "Respecting and backing H's position has shown fabulous allyship."
"They [Steps] have a strong Pride community following, and this reinforces their support and love for their fans."
Ian "H" Watkins said he gave his reasons for not wanting to perform
PA
Watkins said he had told the band they were welcome to perform without him, but theydecided to follow his decision.
He said: "It felt like a little win.
"If everybody did that, all of those ripples will make huge waves, and we will have a much more inclusive and beautiful place to live."
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