"Critics of Traveling AIDS Play Speak Out"

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1992. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

"Critics of Traveling AIDS Play Speak Out"

Baltimore Sun (12/16/92), P. 7B
Ruhl, Sherrie

Abstract: A controversial AIDS play performed in Harford County, Md., high schools is racist and encourages teenage sex, some critics contend. Rev. Saint George Crosse of the St. James United Methodist Church in Jarretsville said at Monday night's Board of Education meeting that "Secrets," a sexually explicit play performed by a national group of young actors, mocked problems facing minority youths. Crosse told the board, "A black girl, using jive talk, explains condoms and contraceptives to her naive white girlfriend. This play says that sex on a first date is typical of black people." Approximately 15 of the 150 people attending the meeting expressed opposition to the play. The play is produced by Kaiser Permanente Health Systems and has been opposed by some parents since first shown to high school students last year. At that time, the school board decided that 11th and 12th grade students could view the play, which includes frank messages about AIDS and sexual behavior. Board members said that the information about AIDS in the play outweighed all other concerns. The board also decided that students must have their parents' permission to attend the play. Nancy Jacobs, state representative of the local chapter of Concerned Women of America, a conservative political group, said "Secrets" relays incorrect information regarding AIDS. She added that the play doesn't tell students that condoms can break.

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