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Alright. Uh, what's your name? Andrew. And are you enjoying the fair today? It looks pretty cool right now. I'm really excited for it. Um, what's what's the atmosphere like here? It's really lively. Really, really diverse and looks like a whole lot of fun. Everyone's enjoying themselves. Totally. Um, So, have you been to out in the square before? I went last year and only went briefly, Really? But this is my first real experience for it. And would you come again? Yes. Awesome. So, do you have any New Year's resolutions this year? No, I'm not. I don't expect [00:00:30] much of myself. Really. And, uh So what do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer youth at the moment? Um, I think it's mainly battling homophobia and battling queer suicide right now, but I think we've got a pretty pretty good year coming up. We've tackled most security issues and mainly getting marriage equality done. And how do you feel about marriage? Equality? It should certainly go ahead. It's an issue about equality. It's about us being recognised as humans. As queer people. We're all humans. We should deserve marriage rights. All right. Thank you. very much. Thank you. [00:01:00] May I interview you? Yep. Sure. Awesome. What's your name? Caitlin. And how are you enjoying the square today? I'm loving it. It's really It's just so colourful. Have you been before? I went last year and that was also a lot of fun, more fun. But you know, at least people. So it's better this time. So, yeah, how how does this year compare? Um, so far it's looking pretty good. There are a lot of souls, and everybody just seems to be having a really good time. So far, we're dragging and passes by. It's great. Awesome. Um, what do you think of marriage? Equality? I think it's ridiculous [00:01:30] that marriage isn't equal already. I mean, as an institution, I'm not a fan of marriage, but I think that everybody should have the same rights. And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? Oh, my God, that is so hard. I would infinite wishes, infinite wishes and then marriage, equality. And what would you like to say to queer youngsters in 30 years time? I'd say, Just be who you are. Don't be afraid to be who you are. And don't be scared of what other people say. Because if they don't like what you're doing, then they're not important. [00:02:00] So you are. And I didn't need the speech to tell you this. Proud loud. I was gonna say colourful, but there is such a crinkling of Wellington charcoal. Come on, guys, brighten up. Yeah, you like you, Hamish, too. Just putting a little rainbow sticker on top doesn't do it, mate. That so out in the square [00:02:30] has been celebrated since 1986. Some of you weren't even born in 1986 and the rest of us can't remember it too well. It's a fabulous event. It's one I'm really proud of to acknowledge our diversity and our creativity. And it's a way to say thank you to each other for what you contribute to Wellington. Wellington's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender [00:03:00] intersects and communities make a really important contribution to Wellington. You are Wellington. You are an essential contribution to the city and there are some absolutely fabulously wonderful opportunities in pig tourism. We're looking at closer relationships with San Francisco and Sydney, and that can only be [00:03:30] good for the pig dollar. So we support your council supports out in the square. It's great to see some of the other organisations like the police, the defence forces here as well. We celebrate fairness, equality and freedom. And 2013 is going to be a fabulous year for you for all of us. Because the marriage equality bill is coming up. And I'm sure there's gonna [00:04:00] be other people speaking about that a little bit more. But for those of us who believe that relationships are about love rather than tradition, I wish you every success. So you're making a difference in our little capital. We're here to really enjoy today Out in the square. Tata, Can I have a good round of applause for the man who's a great supporter of our communities? [00:04:30] Thank you. I also want to acknowledge my fellow MP Kevin Hay here. We did have an idea that Kevin and I might come in on a tandem together, but there seemed to be some weight differential issues. So, uh, Kevin, you really do need to lose a few pounds. No. So, um, it's great to see Kevin here as well and also to to for opening up for us today. Thank you very much. Look, I'm just so proud to be able to come out here as the MP for Wellington Central and representing the Labour Party at an event like out in the square. [00:05:00] And Celia mentioned that 1980 I actually think it might have been 1985 was the first year of the fear, and I want to make a special tribute to all of the people who've kept the fear going over the years. And I particularly want to mention, uh, Des Smith and John Jolliff today, um, who are, as you know, leading lights in our community. And I I've seen John. I haven't seen Dez yet today. When I asked John where deers was, he said he was cruising somewhere a frightening thought. No, [00:05:30] there they are. That's right. So I want to make a special mention, um, to deers, because I don't know if many people know this, but deers out of about 700 nominees has been placed as a semifinalist in the New Zealander of the year Local hero awards. So here applause, um, to Dez For that, the finals of that are in Auckland. But even making it to be a semifinal is just a fantastic effort from, uh, from Dez. And I want to thank Dez and John and really on behalf of all of the those who've gone before us and making [00:06:00] making the fear possible. Uh, Celia mentioned what a great year 2013 is going to be when we stand up on this stage next year, there will be marriage equality. That's what will happen. And that is a fantastic thing for New Zealand as a whole. And as Celia said, fundamentally, this is about love, about the fact that people should be allowed to love who they want and show their commitment to that. But it's also about [00:06:30] fairness, and it's also about what we want to say about New Zealand as a country. What do we want to be known for? And we want to be known as a country that treats people fairly and that is a good citizen in the world and marriage. Equality is a big part of that, and I am so proud on behalf of the Labour Party and my colleague Louisa Wall, who is sponsoring this bill to say that marriage equality will be in place It's a cross party thing. We've got strong, obviously support from the Green Party. We also have a lot of [00:07:00] national party. He's supporting this bill and we do need to acknowledge that. And this is a great thing. Marriage. Equality will be in place. And we'll take those further steps towards making sure that we have a fair and equal society. So I want you to enjoy the day today. There's fantastic stores all around the place. Make sure you visit them. Make sure you support the people who come along today. Enjoy the day. Enjoy the rest of 2013. Uh uh. You worship the mayor, Celia. My, [00:07:30] uh, my friend and colleague Grant Robertson. Uh, Councillor here today, uh, great to see you all. Um, it's It's a, I guess, kind of a rare occasion where I get to indulge two of my great passions cycling and homosexuality. And, um so thank you for the opportunity. Uh, I'm one of those people who at the beginning thought actually, it was a shame to move the fear from Newtown [00:08:00] into into the city. I really liked it out at Newtown, but one of the things that I've grown to love about it. Being here in the centre of the city is it's a way for our communities to take a full role as citizens of this city. Uh, and that's exactly what the marriage equality Bill is about, too. It's about saying we are entitled to the full rights and protections [00:08:30] of the law in New Zealand. We are part of this whole community, and we demand the right to equality. So this year, as Grant said, it's gonna be a a landmark year for for our communities and for our country. Uh, we've, um we've worked hard over the last year. There's still more work to go, but the signs are all promising for marriage equality before the middle of the year. And so here. Today, [00:09:00] uh, there is a marriage equality stall and and there is a petition on the stall. Please go and sign the petition. If you haven't and ask how you can help to get this bill through right next door to that, there's the Green Party store where we have to keep our assets petition, and we'd urge you to please try and sign that petition, too, because while we already have enough signatures. We want to make sure that if some of those turn out to be invalid, [00:09:30] we're going to have enough to make sure that there is a referendum this year and that John Key will no longer be able to claim that he has a mandate for asset sales. Our communities have always been supporters of justice, fairness and equitable policy for New Zealand. And it would be great to see you sign both of those. So have a fantastic day and and a great year ahead. Thank you. [00:10:00] Hi. Can I interview you? Yes. Please interview me. OK, so what's your name? My name is Paula Barnett Castillo. Ok, nice to meet you, Paula. And what's the stall you've got here? This is lesbian community radio programme. We air every Sunday from 10 to 11 on Wellington Access Radio 783 AM. And what sort of stuff do you play or or talk about? Or? Well, we've been on the air for over 20 years and we've done community notices. We do interviews. We do controversial [00:10:30] topics that are coming up. We talk about legislative bills that are in the parliament being debated that affect us we talk about feminist issues, we talk about sexual issues and we talk about issues that affect the general, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender community in general. What sorts of things do you think are the biggest issues affecting the queer community at the moment? Um, well, they're universal issues. They involve [00:11:00] everything from gay marriage to same sex marriage to transgender voices being heard. Women who change from male to female or female to male are used. We like to promote their issues so that they feel supported. Biggest issues right now are around visibility. We lesbians fall, sometimes fall behind a translucent [00:11:30] screen or curtain behind gay men. So we're always having to say no, we're here too. We're gay, too, or whatever that word is because I know the word is now many words. So what if you're still selling or doing at the moment today we're letting people know about our show, and that is also podcast. So our show is broadcast live or sometimes prerecorded, but every Sunday morning in Wellington. But it is podcast three days afterwards, [00:12:00] and that is downloaded according to countries we know. So we've had Wellington access radio do some statistics and our show is listened to all over the world. So people who Google Lesbian Radio put that search string in will hit us whether they're in Czechoslovakia or New York or Japan, and we are supported. Our financing comes from the Armstrong and Arthur Trust for Lesbians, [00:12:30] which is a trust that was set up by a lesbian couple who created a trust when they passed away. So that is perpetual. So they our annual fees to be on air. Have you been to and out in the square before? I have. This is probably my fifth time here. And how does this compare to previous years? Much better. It's bigger. I can see it's bigger, it's better organised. There's more stallholder here. Pity [00:13:00] about the wind. All right. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. So can I interview you? Yes. Alrighty. Uh, what's your name, fella? So what's your position here today at the fair? Um, I'm a fairy. What does that entail? Um floats around and just sort of helps out with needed. Make sure there's no litter. Holds back to the box office. It doesn't blow away that sort of thing. Oh, yeah, and are you enjoying today? Uh, yes, it's heaps of fun. [00:13:30] Have you been to out in the square previously? Um, yes, a few times. And how does this year compare to previous years? Um, at the moment, bigger. There is so many more stalls. Um, it's just I guess it's all I've really noticed at the moment because it's really early in the morning. Yes. So do you think it all the hype will get even bigger as the day goes on? Um, yes. Yes, I'm sure it will. Awesome. OK, And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? Um, [00:14:00] for Lady Gaga to adopt me. All right. Done. Thank you very much. Thank you. Right. May I interview you? You certainly may. So what are you doing here today? Out in the square, we're representing the police D Network, the Diversity Liaison Officer Network within police, which goes out and gets involved within the GLBT communities around the country. We're a nationwide organisation within police made up of police staff, [00:14:30] both sport and non school. And so what sorts of things do diversity liaison officers do within the place? The a lot of the swan stuff. Yeah, the sword stuff generally deal with, um, any crimes or issues that may be GLBT I related, such as hate crime, which is a big thing at the moment. Family violence, All of those things that are kind of under reported within the GL BT I community, they are definitely there. The sworn staff get [00:15:00] out there and try and make themselves known to the GL BT I community and just try and act as a buffer for a lot of the people who may not feel comfortable talking to normal or non D police staff. So, yeah, it's just a little a buffer, if you like between the police and the public, it's just bridging those gaps. And so what are the DS doing today? Out in the out in the square? We're just basically getting ourselves out there and knowing within the Wellington [00:15:30] community. Um, of course, there's lots of people from around the country here today enjoying this lovely weather, Um, which hopefully will pick up, but, um, yeah, we're just getting out there and being being known. I mean, we've got contact with them. It's up at two minutes. The, uh, Pacific Cross gender transgender community as well. [00:16:00] So we've got contacts here with reestablishing and keeping those contacts open, chatting with people, just letting them know exactly what we are, what we do. How well received. Uh, pretty Well, yeah. Yeah. A lot of people like to see us here. Um, it's great to see the NZDF people here as well. The outreach branch of the NZ. This is their first year here, So it's good for us to be partnered with them [00:16:30] in the same corner holding hands. So it's government departments like NDF police, any of the other ministries. It's kind of seen as full of gaze, but they don't like to talk about it kind of thing, So it's good for them to be here. It's good for us to be here. Everybody seems to like us here. We haven't had any negative complaints. So good stuff, right? And you've been to Alton Square before? Yeah, This is my second year working on the soil for police, [00:17:00] but yeah, I've been here for several years, just as a pass by basically. And so how do you think the fair this year compares to previous years with us a little bit, but can't do anything about that. As far as the fear goes, we're still at the same stalls, same food. Everybody seems to be enjoying it. There seems to be more people this year, I think. General public walking around and not a lot of obviously [00:17:30] gay, lesbian, trans gender. Six people. There seems to be a lot of straight people here as well. I think it really, really good. And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? World peace. Thank you very much. May I interview you? Yeah. Alright. Can you tell me your name? I'm Harlan Wilkinson. Awesome. And what's the atmosphere like here at the square today? Pretty pretty uplifting. Oh, yeah. Not many people here yet, though. Do you think it will get better as well? Yeah. No heap of people will show up. [00:18:00] And have you been to out in the square before? How does it compare to previous years? Um, hard to say at the moment, because I've just got here, but it looks pretty good. Awesome. Do you have any New Year's resolution? No, I kind of gave up on that day. I was like, I'm gonna stop lying to myself about about losing weight and stop smoking, and I'm just gonna stop lying. Here we go. Um, So what do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer people at the moment? I definitely think teenage suicide is [00:18:30] is a main one. That especially affects me personally because I've had a lot of experience with that. So that's our main one. And just general, the gay marriage thing as well just pisses me off. But hopefully we're getting on to that one. So what do you think that we can do as a community to help solve those issues? Well, I mean, we have places like schools out that offer places for teens and stuff, which is really cool. And we have legalised love which is rallying for gay marriage. So I think we're we're definitely doing things which is good, Alright. And do you think those issues are on their [00:19:00] way to being resolved? I definitely think they are. Yes, Awesome. So what do you think of marriage? Equality? I think it's awesome and that we should totally have marriage equality. If you could wish for one thing in the world. What would it be? Ah, can't answer that. It's too hard. What would you like to say to queer youngsters in 30 years time? 30 years time? Well, hopefully you have it a lot better now than we did. I mean, we have it pretty good, but hopefully it'll be even better in 30 years. Awesome. Thank you very much. [00:19:30] Hi. May I interview you? Certainly not a problem. Brilliant. What's your name? Roger Swanson. And how are you enjoying the fair today? So far, I've good. It's a bit chilly at the moment, but there's warming up. The sun is starting to come out, so hopefully and the wind was starting to die down. And what's your store? This is the Lesbian and Gay Archives of New Zealand's store known as leg ends. And so we store community archives the memory of the gay and lesbian trans community and preserve it [00:20:00] for the future. That's our sort of rocks. And why are you doing that? Well, I think the gay and lesbian history has been hidden and and with all that's been happening, it will disappear. If someone doesn't keep it, then there'll be no future for it. But like you think of gay law reform was 85 and now we're looking at the Marriage Equality Act. So the huge change that's happened over the last 2030 years Um, if we don't keep our own history, no one else is going [00:20:30] to keep it. And it'll only be left to the newspapers and things like that. And what sorts of things that you're still doing today. Well, basically, we've We've been signing people up as friends of the archive because we're a community archive, and so we need support from people to keep it going and to finance preservation of material. And we're trying to digitise a lot of audio tapes and things like that. So gay BC lesbian radio, and that would cost money. So, um, we were fundraise for that, Um, [00:21:00] we often we have had a number of conferences, and so we've published the proceedings of those, um, on gay history lesbian history. So, um, that's what we you know. That's what we do. We've got those to sell here a few copies of those and, um, what do you think are the biggest issues facing queer people today? It's quite tricky, really. I mean, I think it's, um, self confidence. Um, I think it's, um, there's issues around youth in schools. Um, certainly, [00:21:30] if you look at the progression from like I said, gay law reform to marriage equality, you can see huge changes in the public arena. But I still think, um, people are gay and lesbian people coming out. It's still hard. Um, it's difficult, um, but in one sense, it's easier because there are a lot more visibility. There's a lot more role model to choose from. You can see famous people who are gay or lesbian. You can see neighbours, uncles, whatever are [00:22:00] out, and so that makes it easier. But it's still not easy, but it makes it easier. I don't think. And what sorts of things do you think that we can do as a community to make it a bit better? I think have events like this. So you're visible and make, uh, gay lesbian stuff fun, you know, Um, so it's not a it's not a dreary burden, you know, it's part of your life and you lead it and you and we encourage people to have a good life. I mean that. That's and I think if we can do that, that would be [00:22:30] amazing. Brilliant. And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? Peace, harmony and love. All right. Thank you very much. Thank you. May I interview you? Of course you can. Brilliant. Uh, what's your name? Maria. And so what are you doing here today at the store? I am here to promote, uh, schools out. Awesome. And what schools out do as a as an organisation? Type of, uh, group that we organise for, like, uh, college students that are unsure about [00:23:00] their sexuality or want to maybe meet other people that are in this sort of diversity or whatnot. So pretty much we accept gay, trans, lesbian and any other shades of grey. Awesome. And what's the atmosphere like today at the fair? It's windy, but it's nice and packed, and there's lots of lovely people today. What do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer people today? Um, I? I don't know. It's kind of it's not as bad as it was last year. I feel like that. The biggest [00:23:30] thing right now that people have been discussing is probably about the equal rights about the marriage and everything like that, which is fair enough we all want to be equal, not be diverse into one little bubble. And what sorts of things do you think we can do to counteract? Um, I guess just get a lot of support from Not just like in the queer community, but also, maybe people like that are supportive of the queer community. Or maybe, you know, the biggest challenge will be trying to get churches [00:24:00] to be equal as well. But everyone's got their own beliefs and everything like that. Awesome. Um, if you could make one wish, what would it be? Hm? That's a trick question. Uh, probably just to have peace and happiness in this world. And if you could say one thing to queer youngsters in 30 years time, what would you say? Fantastic. Awesome. Thank you so much. May I interview [00:24:30] you? Yes. Awesome. What's your name? My name is Rosie Jimson Healy. And, um, what's your store today? Our stall is community law. Wellington. Yeah. So we're we're here representing our two officers in Wellington and Hutt Valley. Um what sort of thing does community law do we give free legal advice? So we give free legal advice on family employment, tenancy, criminal, a whole range of issues, Um, to people in the community, it's totally free. Um, we also offer Specialist, um, drop in services. So there's an advice for women's session and [00:25:00] one for refugees and migrants. Um, and we also do law reform projects. So supporting, um, things in the community, People in the community who want to see a law changed. Um, and we also offer free legal education to community groups, schools, things like that. So how does that apply to the sort of square nature of the staff? Sure. So I think that why One of the reasons we're here is that we want to be able to connect to our queer communities and offer legal support for queer people. LGBTI Q people. [00:25:30] I think that a lot of queer people feel alienated from some social services, and so it's really good to have our faces here and show that we're a friendly organisation who is open to everyone and inclusive and diverse and cares about queer issues. And have you been to Alton Square before Yes. I was here last year on the transform store, and I've been here. I came when it was the gay and lesbian fair when I was a little girl. Like so, Yeah, I've been here for quite a few. And how does this year compare to previous years? Oh, it's a really [00:26:00] good feeling. Everyone's really happy and smiling. There are lots of exciting stories. I think it's, um, really great. Awesome. Thank you so much. May I interview you? Yes, you may. Awesome. Uh, what's your name? Caitlin. And how are you enjoying the square today? I'm really loving it. Yeah. What's the atmosphere like? Really Happy tonnes. Tonnes are just queers. Awesome. Um, would you say they're being gay? I would say that, you know, as a it's a natural state for most people. Awesome. Um, [00:26:30] have you been to Alton Square before? Yes, I have. And how does that compare? You mean today? Yeah. Today, Um, it's pretty fucking great so far. And, uh, why? Well, it's just a really happy atmosphere, and I'm just really happy to be here at the awesome. Do you have any New Year's resolutions? Um, not really. No, just you know, meet more queers. What do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer people today? [00:27:00] Probably just. I think it's starting to have, like, a sort of social acceptance among like, I suppose, heterosexual society of people that it's, you know, your general answer to someone being like Oh, I'm gay is not It's more like, oh, cool kind of thing. So I think it's more just getting rid of, like the the people who are really, really aggressive about it and like that's always been a problem. But I think now [00:27:30] that it's starting to become less of an issue, I suppose so. How do you think we can fully resolve those issues? I suppose it it needs to be. There needs to be more acceptance, like it needs to not be something that is It needs to be a generational thing, like a lot of people need to just grow up and accept that it's OK. And so what would you like to say to queer youngsters in 30 years time? Oh my God, I want to be you. It sounds like it's gonna be awesome. And [00:28:00] if you could wish for one thing in the world. What would it be? Um Oh, God, Yeah. Acceptance. May I interview you? You certainly. What's your name? Robert. Are you enjoying the square today? I am indeed enjoying the It's vibrant, Which is unusual for anything before noon. Have you been to out in the square before? I have. This is my second time. And how does this year compare to enjoy it? Enjoy it. [00:28:30] Just exciting. It's more exciting. More stuff going on. Do you have any New Year's resolutions? Oh, you try to avoid making New Year's resolutions. What do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer people today? Oh, God. Where do you start? Um I mean, I wouldn't know where to start, and I wouldn't really know if I'm the most qualified person to talk about them. But, you know, LGBT youth, homelessness, discrimination [00:29:00] in the workplace. Discrimination in public in general. Yeah. I mean, yeah. Where do you start again? I'm not sure. I the most qualified person to speak about it. And what would you like to say to queer youngsters in 30 years time? It's a tough one. I hope we made it easy for you down the line. If you could wish for one thing in the world to get through the whole year and still be able [00:29:30] to fit into these jeans. Awesome. Thank you so much. May I interview you? Yes. Awesome. What's your name? Ellen. And what are you doing today here at the Square? I, um, am here with the Saint Andrews on the terrace stall. And we have a couple of things happening today. We have a fabulous tree, which we're seeking to kind of, like, build up out of, um, community, uh, hopes, um, things that [00:30:00] people celebrate, um, and things they change they want to see and be part of. So we're asking people to write on a little bit of paper and tie it onto our tree. We're going to build a colourful community tree, and we're also selling some delicious baking. And we also have some postcards to MPs who voted in support of marriage equality, asking them, thanking them for doing that. So is marriage equality something important to the store? It's something important to the ST Andrews [00:30:30] and the terrace community. Yeah. Yeah, totally. So, yeah. Trying to just put that out? Yeah, And so, what do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer people today? Um, I think there are. There are lots, and it depends who we are and where we are. Um, I'm, um Yeah, I guess I'm aware that, um, [00:31:00] you know, right here, standing in this, um, like, love filled place, it feels wonderful to be queer, but there's lots of places in New Zealand where it's not so wonderful at any given moment. Workplaces, schools. Um, so I think that, um there's the issues of, um, people being able to be open about who they are and not suffer [00:31:30] negative consequences. Yeah, and OK, yeah. I'll just do that for now. What sort of things do you think that we can do as a community to rectify those issues? Uh, well, I guess, uh, one of my real, um, real, uh, things that's close to my heart is, um, faith communities being welcoming and inclusive places. And, um, you know, [00:32:00] sadly, it's not the case that you could say that for every church. So, um and so I think for those those faith communities that that do, um, do welcome everyone and do kind of see that sexuality and the variety of sexuality in the world as a kind of manifestation of the amazing diversity of humanity [00:32:30] and reflects the diversity of God that we we need to sort of speak out about that and be beacons in whatever way we can so that queer people know that. So there are spiritual communities and spiritual paths for queer people. As for all people, So that's something that is particularly important to me. And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? Uh, [00:33:00] I guess that the world that my daughter grows up in is one where, um, more people are able to to experience, um, experience the joy of, um of Well, [00:33:30] I don't know their needs being met and knowing community. So what are you doing today here at the Square? Well, we are performing, Um, and also just We come to the square every year out in the out in the square every year, just to, you know, catch up with people and support it. What's your act? We call faux directions. So we're a group of four women and we've come together, kind of like a queer take on on a boy band and [00:34:00] we've got to mesh up with three songs. I'll make sure to record some of it. OK, yeah. So definitely this year compared to previous years, it's windier. Um oh, I think I don't know. It's probably going to be the same. I don't know, You know, it's It's always a good vibe. Um, it's great to have performers and stalls and, you know, you catch up with people that you haven't seen, so I don't know. It's only started today. So what's the atmosphere like today? Oh, [00:34:30] it's great. I think you know, Wellington. We're kind of pretty laid back. And, um, enjoying what's happening and just going with the flow. Do you have any New Year's resolutions? I do. I have many, actually one you'd like to share. Oh, yeah, Well, um, I wanna be relaxed, be really present. And Oh, this is my what I've got, uh, follow your bliss from Joseph Campbell. So I really wanna do what my heart wants to do for them. And what would you like to say if we're youngsters [00:35:00] in 30 years time, right? Oh, I just love yourself. And, um be whoever you are, you know, and do whatever you want to do and just be proud and just be joyful. Awesome. Thank you so much. May I interview you? You may, uh What's your name? Uh, boy Name or drag? Name? You. Mama Desire. Also known as my And what are you doing today? I'm actually [00:35:30] a performer. And, well, it's a song called If You Hadn't, But you did. And I'm performing with my lovely ex-boyfriend Jeremy, who's decided to help me out, and basically I shoot him and killed him and beat up his dead body. It's a very nice, family friendly show. So are you enjoying the square today? Absolutely. I'm having so much fun. I always enjoy the square. This is my fifth year. So how does this year compare to previous years? Uh, well, it's quite [00:36:00] early in the day to tell. Uh, so far, it doesn't seem quite as busy as the others. But, I mean, I performed in the opening ceremony, so it's got to be better than last year's, right. Thank you. I'm glad you agree. Absolutely. I would with you. Thank you. Darling. Do you have any New year resolution uh, my new year. No, no, I don't have any. I don't believe in them because I them up. Anyway, I probably buy more DVD S or not. Buy or not buy as many DVD [00:36:30] S. I'm not sure what of those Something about DVD S. So what do you think are the biggest issues facing? I think the biggest issue is transphobia within the community and biphobia as well. Biphobia is a word. I don't understand when the queer community disowns trans people or bisexual people because we're all a big community and we should support each other. And I think that before we get marriage, equality or adoption or anything, we need to be unified. [00:37:00] Get over ourselves. How's that? Like I interview you. Name Julia. Julia. And are you enjoying it so lovely? Like everybody's so friendly. Everybody is just I don't know. Everybody is just coming together as a community. It's lovely. [00:37:30] Have you been to my first time? Yes, I would love to, but I don't know. What do you think of the biggest issues facing queer people today? Just the acceptance. I mean, within the community, I think outside, you know, because I mean if they saw this, I'm sure they'd [00:38:00] be fine with it because it's just so lovely. And they're missing out on something beautiful. Yeah. So I mean, I think the people who are against this need to be more open minded and, you know, see how happy everybody actually is. What do you think? Yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm totally for it, you know. [00:38:30] There, you know, it's you're marrying someone you want to be with for the rest of your life. You know, it should be It doesn't matter what sex they are or anything. It's just, you know, they should be happy and happy that they totally for you know, everybody, you know, lovely day. You know, for people to get, you know, the marriage. [00:39:00] I can't even word it. But you know you know what I mean. Yes, you can. So what are you doing today? This is the HQ store for out Wellington, the organisation behind running out of the square. So this one's just mainly here to liaise with all the volunteers and all the crews. So they've all got a central point so we can make the sphere run fabulously. Oh, very proud. Couldn't have asked for [00:39:30] or could have asked for a better day. Actually, the wind could have gone away, but the crowd is still early and we have a massive crowd. So what more could you want? And the atmosphere is energetic and enthusiastic, and there's so many people out here being proud to be who they are. What kind of out in the square is to bring into the public light just the diversity and put our our groups, our cultures, [00:40:00] our diversity all out there for the public eye, just for everyone to see and celebrate to celebrate our life and who we are. And do you think you're achieving that? I definitely do. Yeah, so you think Will you be involved in the? I certainly hope so. I have thoroughly enjoyed the first year on the committee, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every up, every down, every bump, every high, every low. It's it's been so exciting, [00:40:30] it can't explain. And if you could wish for one thing in the entire world, what would it be? More sun? Thank you so much. May I interview you? Sure. What's your name? My name is Matt, and what's the atmosphere like here in the square. Pretty good, Really. People are a bit excited and busy moving around a lot, so that's good. Are you enjoying it? I am. I only just got here, but I'm having a good time. Awesome. How long have you come to the square? Before I came last year. Last year was first time. [00:41:00] I had a great time, actually. Well, I've only just got here, really? So I couldn't really answer that. But it is looking good. Yeah, not too bad. But last year was gorgeous. Do you have any New Year's resolutions? Do I have any New Year's resolutions? Less text? That's that's been my resolution. All right, What do you think are some of the biggest issues facing? [00:41:30] Uh, well, I think we're slowly as our generation comes through, we're transitioning from, um it's less a problem of awareness and more a problem of understanding because, um, you know, I don't think we have a problem. I mean, we've got events like this, you know, gay culture. It's very visible, but it's not well understood. And there's a lot of stereotyping that goes on that, you know, isn't necessarily true. So [00:42:00] yeah, we are We're transitioning from a stage, I think, where we need to focus on understanding more than visibility. What sort of things do you think that we can do as a community to rectify those issues? Well, that's a good question. Um, events like this, uh, you know, a a really, really good start. And, uh, I think the other thing is, uh, more getting in on the media. Both, you know, fictional representations. And, um, and not just not just sort of fictional representations, [00:42:30] but also the in in nonfiction as well. And in the news, you know, Do we have any openly gay news anchors? Probably. But I'm not. I wouldn't know. But, you know, it's it's about getting out there, getting involved in politics and in and the news reporting. Um, what do you think? I think marriage equality is hugely important. I [00:43:00] was actually reading an article just yesterday, um, by a UK evangelical minister who said, uh, marriage predates both state and church, and it is neither of their domain. And I think marriage should be open to everyone and anyone, regardless of you know, their sexuality, or even what gender they identify with. Or if they identify with one at all. So what would you like to say to queer youngsters [00:43:30] in 30 years in 30 years time? I would hope that I don't have to say anything special to them because they should be treated just like everyone else. Can you? Yes. Awesome. What's your name? Or or Max? All right. So is this your first time here at a square? No. This is my 40, yeah. So, uh, how does this year compare to previous years? What's the atmosphere like? I think I think this is the best one I've been to. There's a lot more stores and a lot more [00:44:00] people. And just the vibe is a lot nicer. Yeah. What's the vibe like? Like everyone's kind of excited and running around and, you know, happy, smiling. Brilliant. Do you have any this year to swear this and to maintain a B plus average at uni? Good luck. Thank you. Some of the biggest issues facing we today, um I think people who can't look past, you know their set ideas about how people [00:44:30] in society should be and people who just can't look past it even if they don't agree they can't see the bigger picture. Right? And how do you think that we can resolve some of those issues? Gentle guidance. Maybe they should come to after the Squire. I do. I think it's good. I think. I think it's definitely something we need. You know, New Zealand has always been quite a forward country, and I feel we should keep up with that kind of forward, you know, image [00:45:00] any time I have. What would you like to say if we're youngsters in 30 years time, I think Keep strong. Don't worry. Things get better. And if you could wish for one thing in the entire world, what would it be? Equal rights for all. Hi. Can I interview you? Yes, you can. So what's your name? Nathaniel. And call me Nate. Nate. All right. And so, what are you doing here today? I'm at the school's out school. [00:45:30] What is schools out? A place for queer youth. And are you straight people you can come to? So you Yeah, Yeah, yeah. Just for talking and stuff like that. Oh, yeah. Um So what's the atmosphere like today? How square. It's quite good. It's very talkative. It's great. and a whole bunch of people are coming around, so it's really good. What's what's you What have you got here today at the school? What are you doing today? Here? Um, we have a whole bunch of flyers, and, uh, you gotta guess how many [00:46:00] lollies are very. It's a dollar to do so. And all the funds go to help schools out, and the is there as well. Awesome. Um, So, how well received is your stolen? Well, it's quite good today. Actually. I believe I think we've made quite a lot of money with people trying to guess how many lollies are in the jar. I haven't done it yet, but I'm sure a lot of people have. And we have quite a lot of numbers. And, um, have you been involved in a square? Yes, it has. I think most of them, actually. [00:46:30] Oh, yeah? Yeah. And do you think we'll come back next year as well? Of course. Yeah. I'd love to help Bones as well. Awesome. Um, what do you think are some of the biggest issues facing queer youth at the moment in New Zealand, I think mostly like along the lines of like bullying and stuff like that, I guess. But, um, and just like Homeless Quay youth as well is something that we need to look at, which is along the line as that. And how do you think we can rectify those issues? Um, I guess just help out as much as we can, right? And and, um, [00:47:00] put the message out there that, you know, there are people that can help you, and you just need to find it. And what sorts of places, like schools out there are also, like, where you lines, you can call the numbers, and they will definitely help you out with the spot. Um, you just need to, like, just google it. I'm sure you can find them anywhere. Especially in your school. Um, you can find out school schools, out things, things like that. Um what would you like to say? To where youngsters [00:47:30] in 30 years time? What do you mean? In 30 years time? What do you mean? I mean people who are queer in 30 years time. What would you like to say to them if you could speak to them now? Um, just stay strong and just everything you're going through right now, um, makes you stronger in the end. And if you could wish for one thing in the world, what would it be? Oh, I'd have to wish for So in the future that people won't have to, like, come out of a closet and things like that, they could just live their lives. Awesome. Thank you so much. [00:48:00] Hi. May I interview you? Yes, you may. So what is the store? Um, this is the refuge out in the store, out in the square store. So we kind of sell off some of our clothes that we haven't needed or our and raise some money for refuge. What is refuge? Um, women's refuge as a service provider for women who experience domestic violence in the Wellington community. So we offer safe house and community social work services for women who are living with Right. Um So what is the state of domestic violence in New Zealand at the moment? [00:48:30] What is the state of domestic violence in New Zealand? Um, well, I think, you know, like as we see on the news, that it's pretty. It's a pretty big problem. And, you know, our current stats are around. One in three women will experience domestic violence at some point in her life. Um, and that's that includes physical, sexual or psychological abuse. And certainly, as a laws have changed and things like it's not OK, Campaign has started. We've got lots busier. So I think refuges all over the country are experiencing lots of, you know, lots of need. [00:49:00] So how well received is your stall in the square? It seems really well received. I think people are quite interested in refuge and, you know, people like cheap clothes. So it's a win win situation. Awesome. Um, so what's the atmosphere like today? It seems just like it is every other year that it's really nice and really friendly. And there's lots of kind of diverse people and, yeah, diverse stores and cool entertainment. So you've been out in the square. This is about at least our third time third time in a row. We've had a store here. And how does this year compare to previous years? It [00:49:30] just I mean, it's it's always really awesome. Um, so, yeah, I would say it's as good as other years and yeah, excellent. Um so if you could wish for one thing in the entire world. What would it be? Um, I don't know. Really good funding for domestic violence services. Thank you so much. What are your names? I'm Tiggy and Stone, and I'm Rob Evans. Alright. Uh, so is this your first time here? Out in the square [00:50:00] here? About three or four years now. And how does this year compare to previous years? Um, don't seem to be seen to be people as previous years, but that may be just where we're placed at this time as well. So what does the armstrong and art the charitable trust do? Well, um, it it it was set up by B. Arthur who? Who was Betty [00:50:30] Armstrong was her partner for 57 years. Betty had died and be set up the trust to be benefit lesbians in the north Island, Uh, south of man area. Really? Um, so, So to fund projects that benefit lesbians. Awesome. And so, what sorts of projects are you guys involved in now? Well, we fund lesbian radio, and we fund, [00:51:00] um, we fund Lila, we give funding to to lila, and, um, and then we've got a, uh we We take applications for projects twice a year, the end of January, the end of July, And then we look at those and and and examine them, but against the criteria that we have. And, um And look at how much money we've got available as well. And so we might just fund [00:51:30] a particular aspect of of of something. You know, um, we can't always, uh, do the whole thing. For example, um, a woman has a boat shed, that lesbian that she allows lesbians to work in free of charge. So if people are doing study or painting or whatever or music, they can go and use the boat shed, um, for no charge. And we [00:52:00] pay for the electricity, things like that. So what is your still doing here today? We're selling cards and Betty were both artists, and Betty was prolific, the not quite so prolific. And we had we, uh a few years ago, we had a up at the Thistle Gallery. We had an exhibition of their paintings, and we sold a lot of them. But we we also photographed them all first so that we could make cards and we've got postcards and, [00:52:30] you know, cards that go in envelopes one and, um and we're selling those so that just for fundraising and we're selling plants as well. Um, so what do you think are some of the biggest issues facing for people today? Um oh, what do you think are some of the issues Just trying to think There certainly aren't as many issues as there were before. [00:53:00] Uh, and it's by the number of people that we're seeing here of the different age groups proves that things are becoming easier for them. Um, and just the likes of groups like ours and other ones makes it easier for them to become involved in the community, find like minded, friendly people that they can associate with. And I'm not quite sure what that was that went with it. A pamphlet or a card. [00:53:30] I think it is getting stronger. And, um, how do you think we can try to make those issues better today? I guess just to make sure that there is plenty of avenues where they can contact people to talk to people that are friendly and non judgmental, et cetera. And I mean, yes, I think festivities like [00:54:00] today a bear. I watched a young man walk in earlier. He was very young and he looked very nervous and very shy. But I thought once he gets in here and feels the sort of the festive spirit and he'll meet people and be comfortable and I think that's for the young people, that's really, really important that we're out. They're invisible. We used to have in the eighties an organisation called Lesbian Action for Visibility and because visibility [00:54:30] was a really, really important, um, political action because we'd be invisibility had been something that we'd have to fight against for so long for many years. I mean, you know, we weren't We weren't even in that included in the criminal law because the politicians thought it was it was better to keep us invisible than to let people know that we were that we were out there and we existed. All right, so if you could wish for one thing in the entire [00:55:00] world, what would it be? It's a tough one, I. I think for everybody in the queer community to be accepted as as normal heterosexual people are just we're all normal and you get rid of prejudice. Yes, the the even. Even though things that have improved since home sexual law reform and the human rights legislation. Um, [00:55:30] I think and I think when civil unions came in, although I was against the civil unions because it put it, it made a double standard in the law. But equally, it set up a situation where we were celebrating our relationships rather than protesting about about what was being what was happening to us. And that was that was the first thing that I became aware of. I think I think we must celebrate our relationships and and and and put it out there. Lovely. Thank you so much.
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