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Q&A: David Norris Against the Pricks

Q&A: David Norris Against the Pricks

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In a new autobiography the politician and scholar talks about how homophobia scuttled his chance to be Ireland's president

lucasgrindley

David Norris very nearly became president of Ireland, which would have been a first for that country and a first for any gay man globally. Polls showed the independent senator from Dublin outpacing competitors -- until attacks painted him as sympathetic to pedophiles. At his lowest point, the longtime LGBT rights activist withdrew from the race. When support persisted, Norris made a failed comeback bid. In his new autobiography, A Kick Against the Pricks (the title refers to a Bible passage), the James Joyce scholar writes intimately about his life and the scandals that Norris says haven't allowed him a complete night's sleep ever since.

You are the reason homosexuality is no longer criminalized in Ireland. How have things changed since then?
When I started off 40 years ago or more, we had a relatively unsophisticated opposition. For example, with the abortion debate, they colonized language, and it became what they called the "pro-life" movement.... It didn't mean that we were antilife, but we were defined into it. And I see the same thing happening with people now that are talking about being pro-family. And I think it's very dangerous. The right and integrity of people who take a different point of view has to be defended. Language systems must not be yielded, without a struggle, to fundamentalist groups.

This is the sort of thing you could have talked about on a world stage if elected president.
It's why I was stopped, I have no doubt. Because the firestorm that surrounded me was unique in Irish political life. It also went viral. It went all over the world. My election would have been a tectonic change...but the establishment wasn't prepared for it. I regret that I was actually forced out in the beginning, but I am very glad that I went back in and completed the course. The other thing is: I am still here. The last gag has been removed, and I intend to keep speaking out.

Should gay people see yours as an inspirational story about what's possible or a warning about the homophobia that we still all face?
Oh, absolutely both. One of my colleagues said you're mad to go back in because it's going to be a crucifixion. I'm a religious person, and one thing they forget is that after Good Friday comes Easter, after the crucifixion is the resurrection. I do not intend to stay silent.

lucasgrindley
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Lucas Grindley

Lucas Grindley is VP and Editorial Director for Here Media, which is parent company to The Advocate. His Twitter account is filled with politics, Philip Glass appreciation, and adorable photos of his twin toddler daughters.
Lucas Grindley is VP and Editorial Director for Here Media, which is parent company to The Advocate. His Twitter account is filled with politics, Philip Glass appreciation, and adorable photos of his twin toddler daughters.