What a difference a day makes! BBC Radio 1 reversed its decision to censor The Pogues’ “Fairytale of New York,” a holiday-themed track that includes the word “faggot”.
A bulk the radio’s listeners apparently approve of the questionable word’s inclusion. Radio 1 manager Andy Parfitt released this statement:
After careful consideration, I have decided that the decision to edit A Fairytale of New York was wrong. Radio 1 does not play homophobic lyrics or condone bullying of any kind. It is not always easy to get this right, mindful of our responsibility to our young audience.
While we would never condone prejudice of any kind, we know our audiences are smart enough to distinguish between maliciousness and creative freedom.
In the context of this song, I do not feel that there is any negative intent behind the use of the words, hence the reversal of the decision. The unedited version will be played from now on.
Gay activist Peter Tatchell isn’t happy, to say the least, and wonders if people would feel the same way about the word “nigger”. He’s doubtful.
desha
It is a great old Pogues song. I’m a faggot and I don’t find the word to be offensive out of context. Its not if you call me a faggot, its how you call me a faggot.
Blacky
I love fags and faggots.
Chill out Peter Tatchell.
Meeg
I agree. This is a sweet song. There’s no reason to censor it.
hells kitchen guy
Well, this faggot has no problems with the word “faggot.”
Bitch Republic
I agree with the Beeb.
http://www.cafepress.com/popcultstore/4343813
cb
Green Day’s “American Idiot” was censored on radio for the same reason, right? “Well maybe I’m the faggot America. I’m not a part of a redneck agenda”
underbear1
Faggot I accept from another queer…from breeders, not so much
Puddy Katz
Happy Christmas you faggots! From one faggot to the others!