Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster
September 20th, 2012
Last month marked the fifth anniversary of the death of Sophie Lancaster – the 20-year old British goth who was killed in because of the way she dressed. Her murder continues to have an impact on the alternative scene with her mother Sylvia launching the Sophie Lancaster Foundation and giving talks to raise awareness of image-based prejudice. There’s even a stage named after Sophie at the annual Bloodstock Open Air Festival in Derbyshire.
Yorkshire poet Simon Armitage was so moved by Sophie’s death that he teamed up with Sylvia Lancaster to create a radio performance called ‘Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster’, which was based on his poetry collection of the same name. The performance has just been adapted for stage and is now running at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre until 29 September.
The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was created as a lasting legacy to Sophie, fighting for the respect and understanding of subcultures in our communities, campaigning to have the UK Hate Crime legislation extended to include people from “alternative subcultures” or “Lifestyle and Dress” If you have not already please visit and like The Sophie Lancaster Foundation Facebook page and show your support for the fantastic work of the foundation.