There has been outrage among Christian students at a university in York following a controversial portrayal of the traditional nativity.
York St John University’s LGBTQ network put on a production called ‘A Gay in A Manger’ in which the baby Jesus and his parents Mary and ‘Jo’ were depicted as homosexual.
The plot saw Mary and Jo being close friends with ‘Queen Herod’ as they called for a party across the land.
The description on the student union website reads: 'Mary and Jo packed their pride flags and set off on the long journey to the best gay club this side of the Red Sea – Heaven.'
A second-year politics and international relations student, Josiah Diamond, wrote to the university to raise concerns that the play was discriminatory.
He had also added that such performances would not be tolerated if they were to target other religions and faiths.
The student union responded, claiming there was no difference in treatment and that it was a ‘reinterpretation of a religious theme’, therefore protected under artistic expression.
Mr Diamond responded in a letter writing: “This portrayal is not only blasphemous in a direct sense, but of a particularly offensive and violating nature to adherents of the faith and openly opposing doctrine.
“By allowing this performance to go ahead, the university is supportive of groups who chose to openly mock the Bible.”
Responding to the claims by Mr Diamond, Donna Smith, the chief executive officer of the student union, said that whilst they are proud of their Christian heritage, they are committed to being inclusive.
She had also added that, according to UK law, she has found 'no evidence' that the play constitutes unlawful harassment, discrimination, or hate speech.
