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Elton concert banned in Egypt for comments on homosexuality
Sunday, May 2 2010 |
Egypt's musician's union rejected plans for Elton to perform a private concert scheduled for May 18, 2010, because of his "controversial remarks attacking religions".
"How do we allow a gay, who wants to ban religions, claimed that the prophet Eissa (Jesus) was gay and calls for Middle Eastern countries to allow gays to have sexual freedom," head of the Egyptian Musician Union, Mounir al-Wasimi told DPA. Elton stirred controversy after his remarks to US celebrity news magazine Parade in February 2010, where he said "Try being a gay woman in the Middle East - you're as good as dead", after saying he believed Jesus was "gay".
Al-Wasimi said that he has begun coordinating with security bodies to ban Elton's concert, saying that the union is the only body "authorised to allow performances by foreign singers in Egypt". In 2008, Elton John performed in the United Arab Emirates to a crowd of more than 13,000 fans.
Although some human rights activists claim homosexuality is spreading in Egypt, the topic is a taboo in the country. In 2008, a lesbian scene in an Egyptian film set in Cairo's slums caused an uproar. In 2001, police raided a "gay" floating disco in Cairo. Around 20 of the 52 arrested were jailed for "habitual debauchery" and "obscene behaviour".
Boy George defends Elton's Jesus comments Friday, March 19 2010 at 07:13:00 Man charged with threatening Elton John Friday, March 12 2010 at 07:52:32 Bishop complains about Elton Wednesday, March 3 2010 at 18:27:59 Elton blames Parade magazine for his 'Jesus Was Gay' remark Monday, February 22 2010 at 12:27:42 Elton under fire for 'Jesus is gay' remark Friday, February 19 2010 at 08:56:59 Elton John: 'There's A Lot Of Hate In The World' Thursday, February 18 2010 at 06:12:35
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