Gay Rights Activists Confront Archbishop

Mon., April 21, 1997

Compiled From Wire Services

Gay rights activists scaled the walls of Lambeth Palace, residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, to confront him Sunday over the Church of England’s stand on homosexual priests.

The Most Rev. George Carey, spiritual leader of the Anglican Church, was meeting with 16 senior clergy from around the world when 10 demonstrators climbed over the walls and interrupted a photo session.

The protesters from the group OutRage accused Carey of failing to meet representatives of gay Christian movements and of refusing to recognize homosexual relationships.

OutRage leader Peter Tatchell said the group objected to Carey ruling out any future role for homosexual clergy members.

Witnesses said Tatchell seized the archbishop’s arm to grab his attention and brief scuffles ensued.

After 10 minutes, Carey told them: “I find your manner offensive. That is enough. I’d like you to leave my grounds.” The protesters did.

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.

Gay Rights Activists Confront Archbishop

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

U.S. Navy ships transit Hormuz ahead of mine-clearing mission

Manhattan DA investigating Rep. Eric Swalwell after sex assault accusations

Zelenskyy’s top aide sees Ukraine nearing a deal with Putin