ABC criticised over ‘Playschool’ same-sex story time
The ABC has been criticised for allowing Playschool to broadcast a children’s story allegedly involving a same sex couple.
Federal Minister for Children, Larry Anthony, says while Playschool is a quality program, it overstepped the mark in reading a book about a child with two mothers.
Mr Anthony says it is the role of parents to educate their children on such issues.
“I am concerned that the ABC are putting on these types of programs,” he said.
“Quite frankly when it comes to my children, if I want explain about same sex couples that should be up to parents.
“It should be up to me, not the Australian broadcaster.”
A statement from the ABC says the passing reference to a child with two mums was in keeping with the program’s philosophy to show the diversity of family types in Australia.
But Mr Anthony says it was offensive and has challenged Opposition leader Mark Latham to back him up.
“Would he read this to his kids? I doubt he would. I think he’d feel uncomfortable,” he said.
“So if he feels uncomfortable with that, why isn’t he supporting the Government regarding of course our decision to ban same sex couples from adopting children from overseas.”
Anthony recommends that the ABC stick to themes which are more in line with those appropriate to the average age of the Play School audience. At least he appears to recognise that his worldview has much in common with that of the average 4-year old.
