08/09/2022
“ShoutOut” did not broadcast on Thursday 8th September, owing to the passing on of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our team was at BCFM Community Radio in Bristol, our home station, as news broke, and helped put into place the protocols that saw all the community radio stations across the UK suspend their normal programming as a mark of respect and mourning. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was popular amongst a great many LGBTQIA people. Psychologists noted that many people have dreamed of the Queen, as an archetype representing continuity and stability. Indeed, there is a Pet Shop Boys song on the 1993 album “Very” called “Dreaming of the Queen”. It reflects the fact that regardless of people’s individual views on hereditary monarchy, the Queen had touched many people on a very deep level. In a world of rapid technological change, social progress, different governments and the sometimes ephemeral baubles of television and social media, HM the Queen symbolised a continuity, a dignity and a compassion. A number of LGBTQIA public figures paid tribute to the Queen. Elton John spoke for many when he said: “Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing. She was an inspiring presence to be around, and lead the country through some of our greatest, and darkest, moments with grace, decency and a genuine caring warmth. Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly.” We now enter the age of King Charles III. “ShoutOut” should return to the air on Thursday 15th September.
