40 Years Since Homosexual Law Reform

The audio recording captures an event held at the New Zealand Parliament on 11 March 2025. Organised by Rainbow Wellington, the gathering marked four decades since the introduction of Fran Wilde’s Homosexual Law Reform Bill to Parliament on 8 March 1985. The event brought together political leaders, activists, and community members to reflect on the past, acknowledge progress, and address ongoing challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The event began with a karakia and formal acknowledgements by Sam French, who represented Rainbow Wellington. French paid tribute to the pioneers of law reform, particularly those who had passed away, including Bruce Burnett, Carmen Rupe, and Georgina Beyer. French also recognised the efforts of historians and archivists in preserving the stories of LGBTQIA+ activism and history. Attendees included community leaders, politicians, and members of various organisations supporting LGBTQIA+ rights.

Labour MP and host, Shanan Halbert, then addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for the work of past activists and political leaders. Halbert emphasised the intersection between politics and LGBTQIA+ rights, acknowledging key legislative achievements such as civil unions, marriage equality, the banning of conversion therapy, and gender self-identification laws. However, Halbert also voiced concerns about the current political climate, particularly the actions of the government regarding transgender rights, access to gender-affirming healthcare, and the removal of relationship and sexuality education guidelines in schools. Halbert criticised the presence of groups like Destiny Church, which he accused of promoting discrimination and intimidation against LGBTQIA+ communities. He urged continued advocacy and solidarity to protect and advance human rights.

Dame Fran Wilde, whose efforts led to the decriminalisation of homosexuality in New Zealand, then spoke. Wilde reflected on the challenges faced during the 1980s, particularly the widespread prejudice and misinformation about gay men. She highlighted how public perceptions changed as more individuals came out, demonstrating that LGBTQIA+ people were ordinary members of society who deserved equal rights. Wilde also expressed concerns about the rise of conservative and extremist movements both globally and in New Zealand, warning against complacency in the fight for human rights. She encouraged younger generations to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that progress was not undone.

Following Wilde’s speech, Benjamin Doyle of the Green Party addressed the audience. Doyle, who identifies as takatāpui and non-binary, spoke about the interconnected struggles of marginalised communities, particularly Māori, transgender, and non-binary individuals. Doyle also shared personal reflections on parenting a transgender child and the need for continued advocacy to protect young people’s rights and access to healthcare.

Todd Stevenson of the ACT Party then spoke, acknowledging the significance of the event. While avoiding direct engagement with specific policy criticisms raised by other speakers, Stevenson affirmed the party’s belief in individual freedoms and encouraged open dialogue on LGBTQIA+ issues.

The event concluded with reflections on progress made and the challenges ahead. Speakers emphasised the importance of continued activism, political engagement, and community solidarity in ensuring that LGBTQIA+ rights remain protected and expanded. Attendees were reminded of the struggles that had paved the way for legal and social change and were encouraged to keep advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society.

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Benjamin Doyle Fran Wilde Sam French Shanan Halbert Todd Stevenson

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