If you, like many others were wondering why tickets for the much-awaited movie, Love, Simon aren’t available anymore, it’s because the CBFC decided to ban it. The worst part about this situation is that this ban comes during Pride Month, a month dedicated to celebrating, learning and understanding the LGBTQIA community. Obviously, the community across India is reeling that a movie, which is a gay, coming-of-age story of a boy, has been delayed indefinitely.
What’s the issue exactly?
The movie was slated to release in India theatres on June 1, 2018. However, people started to report that when they tried to book tickets for the movie, at the announced screening times, a message stated that they were no longer available. The reason behind this is that the Central Board Of Film Certification decided to put a ban on the movie because of its gay content. This is pretty surprising because judging by the reviews, the only gay content in this movie is a kiss between two boys. So, it begs the question, is that really enough to warrant a ban?
Why is it important?
In a time where the importance of educating and spreading a message of equality is at an all-time high, a move like this only dents and ridicules the struggles of everyone fighting for LGBTQIA representation. For those who are wondering why this is such a big deal, in India, gay sex is criminalised under Section 377 of the Penal Code. This means, that even two consenting adults of the same sex, cannot be with each other. Yes, this is an archaic law, but it’s still something that is repeatedly used against the community. Coming back to the movie, the hashtag #ReleaseLoveSimonInIndia and #LoveSimon are trending on twitter as well to call for the overturn of the ban.
But really, why?
As a country, it seems as if we keep taking two steps back for every step forward and it’s time that we wake up. While some may argue that it’s only a movie, others, especially people of the community know how powerful and meaningful even one good movie can be. The smallest things matter and count towards the bigger picture and this move by the CBFC only sets the whole community back. It’s important because it could help educate audiences and even parents, of what it is to be gay. It really does have the ability to change the perception of people, about the community as a whole.
The world is changing and it’s time we stop looking at it as just black and white. We urge you to help support the release of this movie! It may seem insignificant but think about the impact something so small could have on someone struggling to come to terms with what they are. Use the hashtags #LoveSimon and #ReleaseLoveSimonInIndia and be a part of the movement.
Information courtesy: Gaystarnews.com
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