Letters / Uphold the tradition
Whilst I can sympathise with Dorothy O Brien’s sentiments ‘Just shocking’ (SN, 06/02/2018), it is also really heartening to hear the secretary of the Lerwick Junior Up Helly Aa committee stating that on a personal level he understands the desire for change to the boy only aspect of the event. Wonder if others of a like mind would also speak up.
Given the voluntary nature of the Junior UHA committee it is important that the junior UHA does not grow so large as to be unmanageable. Indications of further community support would likely be welcome should overall numbers need to increase.
It is important too, however, that a genuine equality of opportunity to participate in a gender-neutral junior jarl procession is secured. There is no need to insist on separate girl and boy squads, princesses or posies.
Voting arrangements for future junior jarls should fairly allow for an equal likelihood that a girl or a boy be selected. Achieving this is not beyond the wit of man, particularly if the tradition of having the vote held in the Anderson High School is upheld.
Peter Hamilton
Sundibanks
Scalloway
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.