I WAS appalled to read Mr Ogilvy’s letter (May 18), and want to point out that being gay could get you arrested or even executed in at least 78 countries. In the UK, thanks largely to the Human Rights Act 1998, the repeal of Section 28 (2003) and the European Court of Human Rights, our rights to be treated as equals with equal access to protection regardless of gender, sexuality, race or age are protected by law. The fight for equal rights has been significantly advanced by these laws and the Labour movement is very proud of these achievements. York’s citizens are free to live the life they choose, and are able to be themselves. We absolutely must recognise the rights and freedoms we have gained, not just in a spirit of tolerance or of acceptance, but in celebration.

Cllr Danny Myers, Labour, Clifton Ward, Pembroke St, Clifton