Homophobic attack victim speaks out
A MAN subjected to a homophobic attack in an Ipswich street has today condemned people in the town for being “small-minded”.The 33-year-old, who does not wish to be identified, said he has suffered more abuse about his sexuality in Ipswich than he did on a visit to America's Deep South.
A MAN subjected to a homophobic attack in an Ipswich street has today condemned people in the town for being “small-minded”.
The 33-year-old, who does not wish to be identified, said he has suffered more abuse about his sexuality in Ipswich than he did on a visit to America's Deep South.
He said he and his friends have been beaten up and called “gays,” “homos” and “batty boys” as they walk through the street.
In the latest incident he was walking home from a friend's when he approached a man and asked for a cigarette.
The man swore at him and said “you're gay aren't you” and the victim tried to calm him down.
However, the man continued making homophobic comments and then punched the man in the face.
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The victim tried to walk away but his attacker followed him to his town centre home.
He said: “I went to put my key in the door and he came running up behind me and smacked me again.
“I punched him and managed to get in and then he started kicking the door and pulled the bell off.
“He started shouting 'you're gay' and I called the police.”
The man suffered a swollen lip and lost a tooth in the attack and said the assault was one of many he has suffered in the town.
He claims he has had his throat cut by a man who he invited into his home and has also had his flat trashed.
He added: “Your sexuality shouldn't define who you are and I think it is very sad that it becomes the most important factor in your character.
“I have travelled quite extensively throughout the world and I have never had as many problems as when I came to Ipswich.
“I have fought long and hard enough with myself over my sexuality and don't see why I should have to fight with other people.
“I can stick up for myself but I am sick of fighting because of peoples' small mindedness.”
The attack happened outside the church in Upper Orwell Street at 3.50am on Tuesday .
The offender is described as white, 18-20, 5ft 5in, with short mousy brown hair.
He was wearing a dark blue t-shirt and trousers.
Anyone with information should call Pc Alistair Maidment at Ipswich police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Have you been a victim of a homophobic attack? Write to: Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail: eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.
Weblink: www.suffolk.police.uk
