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So I'm a green party MP and today I will be for the first time in my life, a dike on a bike which I've got to say, comes at the top of the list for me today. And but right now we're standing in Tennyson Street and people are starting to gather for the parade. And in front of me, I can see the, uh, primary teachers union with a beautiful sign saying Teachers with pride. There's a little contingent so far of the greens and there's a Rainbow Police car and there is [00:00:30] a highland band with their bagpipes, and my Scottish roots are singing as I see them with their rainbow flags on their bagpipes and behind me I can see the Dutch embassies, two kissing boys, inflatables reaching up into the sky. So it's looking appropriately rainbow and fabulous and queer, and we're in May, which for Wellington, I mean, this is an amazing weather for Wellington because it normally it's rainy and windy and it's still windy today. But it's now [00:01:00] I'm going to an existential crisis at the moment about climate change, so this observation doesn't make me feel good, but, you know, we're We're working with what we've got and we should celebrate the good bits. Maybe I don't know. Now, the last time we talked was it was almost It was. It was just over a year ago. So much has happened since then. Should we cover some of that off? So, like, I mean, there was the Auckland Pride parade, which kind of imploded. Did you have any thoughts on that? Well, the greens, [00:01:30] um we marched in the Auckland Pride march and I've got to say, despite the tensions and the sadness I have around the, um, community dividing and imploding, it was beautiful. It was from my experience, it really felt like a difference of walking and being observed by others, um, to being in a massive community, taking over [00:02:00] and I. I found it incredibly special. And, um and I think there was a lot of complexity in that, um, the tensions and the debate and I really hope that we can bring the best of it all together, and and I know that's gonna be hard conversations. Yeah. Uh, also in the last year, we had the passing of the historic homosexual offences. Expungement bill. I know which is amazing, [00:02:30] because I remember, um, Kevin Hague receiving the petition and, um, the debate within the community, which felt like, you know, like, it was the seeds of an idea and to actually then see, and the minister at the initially rejecting it and then changing her mind, Um, which was the minister, I think Amy Adams and then seeing it go through like, it's not that often you get to [00:03:00] see that process happen. And I think it was quite a special and important moment for us as a country. Yeah, we had the, uh, deferral of the gender self-identity bill. I I'm saying deeply if you can't hear that, um, it's just something I find completely gutting. Um, and I, I do not buy the argument that there are, um, significant legal issues to work through. The only [00:03:30] things that I heard in the examples given around that suggested, um, the possibility of rolling back the few existing rights, which I find deeply disturbing. But we are working, um, with, uh, a cross party to try and get us on a track of resolving that because, you know, it's been over 10 years since the human Rights Commission put out their report to be who I am, and this is the first [00:04:00] direct piece of legislative change out of that 10 years later. So to me, it's really important that we do this and get it right. And do you have any thoughts on, Um I mean, we've had Israel Folau in the last couple of days coming up with his anti gay social media stuff. Um, do you have any thoughts about hate speech and whether we can say whatever we want to say? Um so the greens have been, um, really promoting the need for consideration [00:04:30] of our, uh, laws and making sure that they can apply to groups rather than just direct individuals. Um and and I know it's one of those things where we have to make sure that, uh, we're able to have the conversations to progress people's ideas in our society, but and recognise rather than but that some ideas and particularly [00:05:00] an environment where social media is kind of enabling people kind of I don't know, trapping people in kind of these groups of like minded things where things can fester and real harm can result out of it. when their ideas aren't being challenged. I think, you know, we've got to work out how as a country, we protect everyone and move forward and rights. And I think the debate about hate [00:05:30] speech is a critical part of that. And, of course, the most tragic event for generations will be the the the mosque Massacres in Christchurch. Yeah, absolutely. Um, you know, and the the heartbreaking part of that of how, on one hand, it was just so completely shocking and shook my sense of who we are as a country. And also the need to acknowledge that, um, muslim communities [00:06:00] had been warning us and that they had been feeling this increase in kind of white supremacy. And those two things, um, can both be true. That we have a real problem with, um, racism as we do homophobia and transphobia, and we can consider ourselves a peaceful people. And those things are not compatible, but can both coexist, [00:06:30] which I guess leads us back to why we have pride parades in terms of visibility and just showing love and support. Yeah, exactly. And, um challenging, um, the negative stereotypes and embracing them and owning them at times. You know, like even down to those things around. Dyke used to be an insult, or, um and and it's possible to own that and claim it and and feel [00:07:00] the pride of it. Oh, and there's my ancestors singing in the background. OK, Mary. So we're walking up Tennyson Street, Uh, before the pride parade, can you just describe for me what we're seeing? Well, I'm standing right beside the countdown truck which has been wearing its pride colours for Oh, my God, more than six months and my local countdown shops got pride flags ever since the first pride [00:07:30] parade. I love the support from the organisation, and I'm sure they've got queer staff. So I just think it's wonderful that my environment has the pride flags in it. And now we've got the fire engines, the fire engines, all co more fire engines, and I know what they are. They've probably got proper names, but I don't know, but fancy how fire engines being an appropriate. I'm delighted with this world because I always think of them as, um stalwarts of, [00:08:00] um uh, the society which need to be need to protect. And now they're being proud and pride covered. This one's called the Upper Hutt Rural Fire. So pride and fire engines are wonderful. And and here's all my friends from lower hut, all the girls from lower hut are here, covered in looking like Lumberjacks and rainbow Lumberjacks. Hello, girls! Yay! Huh? And there's an organisation they selling [00:08:30] pump water with pride flags. So obviously, this is exciting. And here's something that I don't quite know how to handle. And I think it's a It's a tank. It might even be an underwater Submersible tank on wheels, and it's got a couple of pride flags on it. So there we are, the I guess, by the colour of them, the Army and we've got Army in the Pride parade. It's a very exciting vehicle. Chorus are in [00:09:00] our parade, and now we're getting towards that ambulance people. But they ambulance, they are, and they've got the most fabulous, um, wigs. I've got wig envy, rainbow wig, envy for the for the people in Saint John's People ambulance and everybody's got these colourful T shirts on this. We're all we're here for all our communities. Fabulous. Thank you. Saint John's. [00:09:30] Thank you. So here we have Winstons, Winstone first truck and the first cement truck has been rainbow. You know, those great big turning like an enormous great Children's top spinning top? Well, that turns and makes cement. It's got the rainbow colours all over it that will spin when it goes, and it's got little silver stripes [00:10:00] between it, so they have done it beautifully. It's just beautifully painted. What an amazing thing for Is it first or Fletcher? I think it's Firth. Yes, yeah, yeah. So we we've walked Tennyson Street. We're still waiting on a whole lot more groups to come. But what? What do you think when you see all these all these rainbows on Tennyson Street? Um, I think this is a safe place. First of all, it appeals to the safety in me that, um that Wellington [00:10:30] is fine to be queer. It's fine to be queer in Wellington. And when I was walking down the street, people were saying, What is this? Oh, perhaps it's the gays come to town, and I'm thinking now, is this a friendly comment or is this a threatening comment? And they were all friendly comments. They're all friendly, and I think, um We're so popular that even the organisations want to join in with us because it's good to be seen to be friendly with the queers. Now, when did that happen? I'm amazed. I'm absolutely amazed because can you remember [00:11:00] a time when that that wasn't the case? Yes. When I came out, it was dangerous. And we were If I walked down the street with my girlfriend, we were always, um, uh ridiculed and possibly hit. Um, and people with lesbian businesses were firebombed. There were two fire bombings. There was a killing when I came out to the environment that I came out to be queer in was quite threatening. And I was [00:11:30] I was very shy about telling anyone that I was queer. And now people want to be seen as queer friendly, and it's safe to be queer. And we, um we've got human rights, which we didn't used to have, like, we have the right to marry and we have the right to be employed. And that's a recent thing in New Zealand's history. And I'm very proud of that. Very proud of that. Hi, I'm Flying [00:12:00] Officer Hemi frs I'm, uh, with the Royal New Zealand Air Force, and I'm marching today with the New Zealand Defence Force contingent. And what a large contingent today. Yeah, yeah, I think we're pushing up towards about 100 people today, which is a really awesome turnout. Really happy to see it. Not only people, but also you've got some vehicles as well. Yeah, we've managed to, uh, rustle up a LA from the Army to turn out, which is really cool. I think. Unfortunately, this year we couldn't have, uh, an aircraft fly past, but, uh, we'll see if, uh, someone's turned it on the background. I'm not sure. Can you just describe what a lab is? A lab is a light armoured vehicle. The army use it, uh, for [00:12:30] sort of light reconnaissance patrols, Uh, a couple of people inside. And, uh, yeah, they use it for sort of security operations. So why is it important for the defence force to be marching today? Well, I mean, it's important for everyone to be able to march today in celebration of diversity and inclusion. Um, it's really important for the defence force because we've got people from all walks of life. Uh, we love having them here and it's a really important message that, um everyone gets to see that we are an inclusive organisation that loves, uh, everyone, regardless of who they are and what they bring to the table. Uh, because everyone has value to add. [00:13:00] And and that's what we're trying to really bring on board. You're celebrating a 25th anniversary of inclusion. Is that right? Yeah, that's right. So, 25 years ago, uh, it was just after the 93 Human Rights Act came into force. Uh, it's where the New Zealand Defence Force, uh, really started to, um, embrace the inclusion of all of its people. So no longer was it a crime to, uh, to be homosexual while serving, uh, 25 years ago Today is a really interesting time for a large majority of the organisation who are right under their age. So lots of our young people today never [00:13:30] lived in a world where, uh, it was a crime to serve in the, uh in uniform when you were a homosexual. Um, but there are some people out there who have some stories or some experiences from family and friends, and it's really important that we sort of celebrate where we've come from and the the leaps and bounds We've come forward, uh, in that 25 year time frame and you've now got an organisation. What? Overwatch? Or it's more a group, isn't it? Within the defence force. Yeah. So Overwatch is the defence forces are prior to finish group, uh, our LGBTI Q plus community. [00:14:00] Um, but also, it's really important that Overwatch reaches out to support the commanders, the friends, allies, families of people. So it's more than just our rainbow community in defence. It's actually everyone that benefits from an organisation that's out to support that diversity. Have you marched in a pride parade before? Yes, I have, uh, we marched in, uh, Auckland Pride in 2013 when it started back after its sort of 10 year hiatus. Uh, that was a really interesting time for us as we we stepped out for the first time in uniform. And, uh, there was some interesting, [00:14:30] uh, on look from, uh, the organisation and from the community. And, uh, we came away as the crowd favourite that day, which is a really heartening message to us about, um how forward? Thinking New Zealand was and accepting its military as, uh, an inclusive organisation on a personal note, What was that like to march on that day? Uh, a little bit terrifying, uh, at first. And then it ended up being an hour of of marching in uniform, which has worked to us. Um, but being cheered at the entire time, and I couldn't keep the smile off [00:15:00] my face. And we're supposed to look very, uh, straight straight laced in uniform, but couldn't keep the smile off my face. Had a really wonderful time and just felt so encouraged that there was this outpouring of love from the Auckland community. You know, for the hour that we were marching down the road that day, it was really cool. And so I'm hoping that today we look the same. Why do you think pride events are important? I think pride events are important because it lets us, uh, demonstrate that we care. Uh, it lets us demonstrate that, um, we make an effort. So, um, all of [00:15:30] our service chiefs here, uh, today are are busy people who have made the time to to come in and march with us, and there is a visible demonstration on their part that they are supportive of diversity and inclusion of the LGBTI Q plus community. And what that should do is philtre down to all levels of command and everyone through our organisation and let the public see as well that even our chief executives are here celebrating that diversity. And, uh, and the rainbow community that's here today. So you're saying that the chiefs of what Navy, Army [00:16:00] and Air Force are here today? Yeah, that's correct. So the chief of Defence Force is here. We have the chiefs of, uh, Army Air, the some component commander from the Navy. Uh, I think I saw, uh, someone from Joint Forces. The warrant officers of the defence Force are all here. Um, there's a huge turnout from, um, our seniors, Uh, there's also the defence attache from Australia who's joined us today. Uh, because they are just in the same place in their journey and and really supportive as well. So we really, truly have a really good turnout of senior representation from the organisation. [00:16:30] OK, we're in Tennyson Street, which is, um, in the centre of Wellington City. We're under our wetter digital Mary which is our pride base here. Um, we are standing next to a giant wetter which has been constructed out of, um, eco balloons, which are 100% compostible. So, um, that's pretty exciting. We've got balloon artists over here constructing, um, uh, wetter that are going to be on people's backs. So, um, and they cater we of all ages. So we've got adults, we've got juvenile, and we've got baby wetter. So, [00:17:00] um yeah. So we're in our pride hub here for we are digital. These are amazing creations. Wow. How long did it take to actually make one? So one of those takes about 40 minutes to make one of those medium sized backpacks which we we're describing as the juvenile. Um, and true with a digital style. Joe leg would be pleased with that. Um, yeah, this big, we, um he's been Yeah, he's he's been he's had a few design changes, and, um, yeah, he's he's really come along. Evolution [00:17:30] at the moment, actually. So how do you think this is going to go in Wellington's wind? Well, that'll be exciting. Um, but yes, but, um, we've got some We've got some really strong gaffer tape, you know, because that's how we roll in the film industry. So we're just gonna Gaff like crazy and, um yeah, and just hang on to it. If I have to jump up there like, grab it and go way up into the air and it'll be fine if I have to jump up there, that's what will happen. Find that will just make the wetter seem more alive and animated with our [00:18:00] wind, Right? So why is it important for wetter to be here today? I think it's I mean, it's really important for us to show that we support the LBGT I community and, you know, and also just look around you. Everybody's here today, so I think that just says and I'll tell you what the other thing is after what's happened a few months a few weeks ago, this is even more important. It's just sad that it was. We had to cancel it the first time, but I think we've got a wonderful turnout again. But for whether it's important, we want to make sure that we're saying to everybody anyone can work for us. [00:18:30] It's a place that we think it is inclusive, and it and basically it should be open for everybody. That's what it's all about. Yeah, And say to the community, This is important. Not just for but for everybody. That's that's what we're here for. All humans. We support all humans. I think What's nice about representing that, Right? And we What's nice about coming to an event like this is it does show that we not only as support LGBT Q I community, but we also support, um, any minority and anyone who needs support and help, you know, women, indigenous [00:19:00] people, everybody, all humans. So is this the first time that we has been in a parade? No. We actually entered last year, but we just had a little small. We just dipped our toe in the water last year, and, um and we got a taste for it, and we thought, Oh, no, this is us. Come on. Let's see what we can do this year. And I'm really excited about next year. You know, who knows what that's gonna look like. So can you describe what the feeling was like last year, like marching in a parade? We were really, um, surprised, as we walked through the streets, [00:19:30] people actually yelling and waving at us and being really happy to see us, you know, walking in the parade. That was really cool. We didn't expect that. You know, you sort of walking on you feel sort of famous, you know, people are going. Yeah, we and they were waving, clipping from apartments as we walked down Courtney Place, and we all looked at each other and went, Wow, that was amazing. We almost had tears in our eyes, you know? Well, I did, because I cry at the top of the head, but, um, everybody knows that that's OK. Um, but yeah. Um I think it was just that that the people people really embraced us, and we're really happy to see us. And for our LGBT Q I [00:20:00] crew, um we all came together, and now we've We've just built this lovely friendship, and it's really nice, you know? So it's super cool was amazing because we just started decided on it like I don't know how many weeks beforehand we just started a pride initiative as part of the DN. I stuff got diversity inclusivity going on, we to digital, and when we sort of came together. I think there was 19 of us registered to start with, but as we walked through the streets, we had colleagues and stuff that was just jumping in and joining us, and we swelled up to over 40. In the end, by the time we got to the end, so [00:20:30] we actually grew. And as we went away handing out spare t-shirts to our colleagues and stuff that were just in the crowd 100 and 53. So we've tripled more than tripled. I know. Good Segway. Yeah. Six of Hi, I'm Vivian. And I'm I'm, uh, one of the administrators for the New Zealand Lesbian Social Group, which is an online group on Facebook. And what brought you to pride today? Um, we're here to celebrate [00:21:00] with the rest of our community. I think it's important for us to make ourselves out there in the community. I think the more that we have these events and the more that people see that we're just members of the general public that, um yeah, we've become more accepted. Yeah. How many pride events have you, uh, marched on? I've done the Auckland pride twice and This is my third Wellington. And can you compare what happens in Auckland to what happens in Wellington in terms of pride? Parades? Um, Auckland's obviously much huger Wellington's. It's still quite [00:21:30] new. So, um, it it was much bigger, although that's changed slightly now. Um, yeah, but Wellington's really catching up. It's getting bigger and bigger every year. Do you have any thoughts on on what happened with Auckland Pride this year? In terms of it just seem to kind of have a huge implosion. Um, just lots of differing opinions. Um, they've kind of got it sorted now. So that's good. Yeah. We're just concentrating on making sure that Wellington gets bigger and tell me about your Facebook group. How did that come about? Um, a couple of us. Um, Rachel Green is actually the one that started [00:22:00] our group. Um, just a group where young New Zealand lesbians can go to talk about the community. Some youngsters that are coming out and need a bit of support from the community. Um, yeah, we're a very diverse and inclusive group. So is the, um, kind of online groups now, is that the the way that people are meeting each other and socialising. Yeah, that's a good way. And I think it's a good start for, um, youngsters that are, um, starting to question, Um, yeah, it's just a place to to [00:22:30] go and to be able to meet people without the face to face confrontation, to start off with. Just Yeah, it's a good starting point, I think. What are the biggest issues? Do you think facing kind of rainbow communities in New Zealand today? Um, people making the assumption. I think that, um, you know, we have marriage equality now, and, um, we should just suck it up and, you know, fit in with the rest of the people. But, um, we still got a long way to go. And, um, I think we should still be celebrating what we've achieved so far. [00:23:00] Are there any particular things that the, um community should be focusing their energies on? Um, I suppose just the at the moment Transphobia seems to be one of our biggest issues. And, um, our group is extremely accepting of, um, trans lesbians. A lot of groups aren't um, yeah, we just wanna make sure that we focus on the fact that trans women who are do consider themselves lesbians are accepted by the rest of the lesbian community. Is that quite a thing in the, um, kind of lesbian community at the moment, in terms of [00:23:30] acceptance or nominal acceptance? Yeah, sort of. I think you know, the lesbian community is quite aware of, um, the turf that they call, you know, the trans exclusionary? Um, yeah. So we are in the lesbian social group that we run. We just focus on making sure that those people are included and they are accepted in our community. Can you describe for me what it's actually like too much in a private? Oh, my gosh, it's amazing. The public, um, on the sides of the streets, cheering [00:24:00] and the excitement of being in our community. It's a celebration. It's like, the most fun. It's always enjoyable every year. Um, my name is Kane. I've actually volunteered to be a member of the, uh, Wellington International Pride Parade Board. Um, my day job is I work for council. But of course, I'm happy to be here to support uh, the parade today. We're expecting about 1800 people to be participating today. Um, a number of vehicles, some of them quite interesting. Um, so hopefully today goes really well. Now, this is happening in [00:24:30] May, but it was originally planned for march. WWW. Why the change? Um, obviously, there was, um Christchurch happened, and we were booked to, uh, have our parade on the 16th of March. We felt at the time, Obviously, it's not appropriate for us to be out celebrating and partying. Um, we wanted to stand with the rest of New Zealand and acknowledge that something bad really bad had happened in New Zealand and that it was appropriate for us to wait. And we think that, um now is the appropriate time. So the mosque massacres happened on the Friday and the parade was due for the Saturday What was [00:25:00] that like in terms of having to to to one think about cancellation or persuade or and and reorganising it? I think like all New Zealanders and like everybody all around the world, we were shocked. And our first, uh, reaction, of course, is as human beings. We were sharing, um, empathy and care for the people of Christchurch. Um, obviously, our next task was then to consider what we would do with our parade. We met quite late on the Friday night. It wasn't the best, uh, obviously time to be meeting. But, um, we had to meet to discuss whether we cancelled or [00:25:30] whether we postponed. And we felt that, um, we wanted to be an event that in time people of Wellington would look to and say, Yes, it is time to regroup. It is time to stand back up and reclaim our lives back and our lifestyles. And, um So that's why we went ahead with a couple of months after you were saying that there's around 1800 people going to be turning up today. Can you, um, just paint a picture of some of the groups that are going to be marching? Um, um, there are 1800 people, 41 groups from all walks of life from the New Zealand Defence [00:26:00] force through to small community organisations who represent parts of the LGBT Q I community, um, through to the local council, through to, um, energy companies and a whole range of people. So we are about making sure that operator is diverse and inclusive, and anyone who wants to work with us is more than welcome to walk with us. So organisations say, like the police in corrections Will they be marching and will they be marching in uniform? Um, we have welcomed the police here today. We have said to the police that it's not our our decision to, uh, determine [00:26:30] for them what they will wear and what they won't wear. Um, we wanted to take a slightly different approach in in Wellington. Uh, we recognise that there are cultural concerns around the country, and we we're making our own decisions, and we've worked with the police to say it is your choice. Um, And again, this is about us being diverse and inclusive. Can you just describe for me the parade route through Central Wellington? Um, it will start here in Tennyson Street, um, which is just behind Courtney Place. And then it will move to Courtney Place all the way along through to Taranaki Street and then to the [00:27:00] waterfront. Um, so pretty simple, really. But, um, it will take longer than we think. Probably for for someone to walk a distance of about 1.5 kilometres to the waterfront. It will probably take about an hour. So, uh, it should be great. Should be fun. And this year, you you've got a couple of stages dotted throughout the event we have, um so we're starting with the chorus corner of drag. Uh, couple of well known, uh, drag performers will be, uh, at the first corner at the next corner, we'll have a stage set up with performances from cultural groups from around Wellington, including [00:27:30] the NZSO uh, Wellington Orchestra. And then through to the waterfront, we will have a DJ playing. So, uh, and that's, um, people wanting to talk to me. So, um so, yeah, pretty pretty active event today. Lots of people around. And hopefully, um, a great day. My name's, uh, Inspector Chris Penman. I'm the acting district commander for Wellington District today. I'm here with a large contingent of the New Zealand police, um, to celebrate, uh, with with the rainbow [00:28:00] community and the so fantastic day when you say large, How many people are participating? About 60 police from both police national headquarters from the the Royal New Zealand Police College from Wellington district and from and from, uh, certainly from the probably the lower North island. And I see you're in a variety of clothing. Some are in uniforms. We've got T shirts. Can you describe, uh, what people are wearing and why they're wearing what they're wearing? So we've got, um we'll have staff here that are on duty that will be looking after, [00:28:30] um, just on the outside of the parade, looking after things for for us. And then we've got staff that are off duty, but here in uniform, uh, our constabulary staff. And then we've got our non constabulary staff who are are here in the rainbow t-shirts and with, uh, police identification as well. So and then we also got our Pacifica patrollers and our ethnic patrollers. So, uh, who are supporting us as well? So the Auckland Pride parade had some issues with police wearing uniforms. How was that resolved in Wellington? [00:29:00] Uh, we haven't experienced any of that down in Wellington. Nothing at all. So it hasn't been an issue for us at all. Taking on, um, that Auckland experience with the Auckland Pride parade. Um, have the police, uh, changed how they deal with Rainbow Communities. We've had a really close, uh, liaison and relationship with the, um the Pride Pride parade organisers over the last, probably six months. Plus, um, So it was all about making sure that we had strong communication, that that we weren't necessarily, [00:29:30] um, doing anything that, uh, wasn't in step with what? Their arrangements, what they wanted to achieve with the parade. So have you mentioned in a pride parade before? Yes, last year. And how was that? It was great. It was, um Look, I would have would have liked more people to have been in the parade and supporting the parade, and, um, look at already, I can see that there's a lot more vibrant even this year. So, um, year on year, I expect it's gonna build. So why do you think pride parades are important [00:30:00] to celebrate diversity in our community? Um, we want to make sure we are here and, uh, demonstrating that we have diversity in our organisation, that diversity in our organisation is important, that we need to reflect the community. But we also need to actually support the rainbow community. Um, and in celebrating the pride, pride and celebrating diversity in in in all all our communities, my name is Kirsty Farran. And I'm here with PPT a The secondary teachers [00:30:30] union. So we've got to ban our teachers with pride. And how many are going to be participating today? That is a big, unknown question. Um, I'm hoping that we're gonna have a reasonable group of, um, teacher, uh, LGBTI, plus teachers and allies in our group. We've also joined this year with the NZD I, which is the primary teachers union. And I've got no idea how many of them are coming, so it's a surprise for us all. And will this be a walking float or you You've got vehicles involved? Oh, no. We just walk. We don't do [00:31:00] vehicles, but you're you're wearing some some pride stuff. Uh, yeah, we have a, um a union, um, pride t-shirt that I wear to all events like this. Um, and I guess the reason we come to things like this is because I think it's really important that teachers are visible in this space. Teachers are often the first people that students will come out to in their journey, and teachers are really responsible for making schools a safe space for our young people. And we're conscious that, um, that's not always the case. So, [00:31:30] uh, that's why we're here so that we can be visible and, um, show our support for young people. So what? What? Why do you think? Uh, pride events like this are important. Um, I think pride events are really important because they provide a space for members in the community who don't feel, um, out particularly out who aren't out to see themselves represented. Um, if I use an example, there's a whole lot of teachers who still don't feel safe to be out in their schools. [00:32:00] And if they can see teachers at an event like this along with everybody else, of course, then it may mean that they feel safe to come out in their schools and to therefore be a role model for students in their schools. And what does, uh, marching and pride mean to you personally? Oh, I really enjoy it. Um, partly, I really enjoy the kind of the atmosphere and being surrounded by so many other queer people as a um It's like it's a hugely uplifting experience and III I do it every year in [00:32:30] some form or other normally in the the youth. But this year, we're back in the, um, big event because the didn't go ahead. But it's I just find it really uplifting to be surrounded by so many people in such a positive atmosphere because so often, um, sexuality and gender diversity can be a source of tension. And, um, you know, you just have to look at recent media and social media issues around that, so it's really nice to see something positive in the community. Speaking of tension, there has been some tension earlier this year [00:33:00] with the Auckland Pride parade and, uh, mainly around things like the police marching in uniform. Do you have any thoughts on that? I, ah, I try hard not to get involved in that sort of stuff. I One of my biggest challenges is around, Um, one of the kind of issues was around institutional racism. And what really worries me is if we take out organisations who are institutionally racist, then there's gonna be a huge There's gonna be no one left [00:33:30] in the parade. And so I think, um, you know, you could argue that there's aspects of certainly aspects of education that are considered that they have evidence of institutional racism, so that that really worries me that if we start to put that kind of lens on things, that that can become a bigger thing. Um, but apart from that, um, for us, it's just really important to be visible and in the parade, What do you think? Uh, some of the biggest issues facing rainbow communities are these days. [00:34:00] Um oh, that's a tough question, I I One of the big issues, I think, is fracture and division within the broader community. And we're not big. Um, And if we start to become more fractured, then that makes that creates all these sort of divisions. We need to work collectively to get change and some of those divisions I find really difficult to handle. Um, so I'd really like to see a more sort of collective approach to lots of things. [00:34:30] Um, I think we still have issues for many of our, um, for many of our transgender members around, Um, I work for a union, so I worry about workplace issues so around, um, security and employment. Um, the same could be said for, you know, sort of lesbian and gay members as well. But that's and and by members, actually, but we've sort of where I see the biggest evidence now is for our Trans members who are often really, um, persecuted in workplaces and have great difficulty. And [00:35:00] within schools, I think our young, transgender and gender diverse students are the ones that are having the roughest time. So I'm I'm 23 years old. Um, I'm here on behalf of our company in New Zealand. Why is it important for Air New Zealand to be here? Oh, I think it's It's a company value that we have is like being yourself and, you know, being welcoming and everything. And, uh, something they really push is individuality and being unique. So if a company like, you know, that's so [00:35:30] proud of it and so broad, Um, I think it's very important for us to be here to show everyone that we are proud of it. So being here to support everyone. Yeah. Have you marched in a pride parade before? No. This is my first. Yeah, First time. Uh, so what do you What are you kind of thinking we like? Well, I just from picturing like, uh, like previous ones that I've seen, you know, it's vibrant. It's happy. It's about um, celeb. It's a big celebration. That's what it is. So I think it's all of that is just is what I'm expecting. [00:36:00] I think it's what what will happen today. So, yeah. So how many people from Air New Zealand are marching? Um, I think within our our float and everyone who's supporting and helping with New Zealand, there's about 100 of them. So it's quite a big, quite a big group. Yeah, and can you describe the float and also what you guys are wearing? So everyone that we've got a range. So we've got people who are like wearing t-shirts like us. We've got people who are dressing up in drag. Um, we have our management who are in their uniforms, and so there's a big range of things. Our float consists [00:36:30] of our company vehicles. Um, they've got a truck and they've got, uh, banners and rainbow everything. So, yeah, why do you think, uh, pride parades are important because it's it's a statement. You know, it, it's it's letting everyone know that I don't know if you haven't come out or if you haven't discovered who you fully are or anything like people are here to support. And there's there's all these companies. Everyone throughout New Zealand is here to to showcase that and it I feel very supported in it. And I feel [00:37:00] if anyone wants to come and experience it and feel it and be a part of it, and they could obviously take something away with them, So I feel it's very important. Yeah. So my name is Hayley Young. I'm one of the lead marshals for the countdown float. My name is Patrina Chai. I'm the events coordinator for the National Telehealth Service. And we're here representing 1737. Need to talk. Firstly, what's a lead marshal do? So a lead marshal is basically [00:37:30] just in charge of making sure that everyone stays a safe distance away from the vehicles and just making sure that everyone's safe. Um, it's I basically just came here. We're gonna, um, get organised when the rest of the team gets here so they know where to go. And that sort of thing. Is this the first parade you've been in? No countdown, actually. Um was in the Pride parade last year as well. Um, it was our first year last year and It was a lot of fun. So, um, we decided to do it again this year with [00:38:00] our, uh, one of our online trucks. We get it wrapped up in some pride, um, stickers and stuff, and it's It's really awesome. It's a lot of fun. Can you describe the feeling of what it's like to march in a pride parade? Basically, for me, it's an overwhelming feeling of community. Um, the sense of community and coming together and support that you feel, uh, when you're walking in the Pride Parade just, you know, like it shows how important [00:38:30] inclusion is for New Zealanders, and it shows how important it is in our, you know, Wellington is a pretty small community and for so many people to get behind and support the Pride parade, it's amazing, like it's it's fantastic to see all the support that comes out. Um, it's really overwhelming walking down the street and seeing how many people come out and and support and to to see everyone who is supporting Um, it's fantastic. And you're here with, [00:39:00] uh, need to talk. 1737. What is that? So 1737 is the national mental health and addictions helpline. Um, we're just over a year old. We're run by the National Telehealth service. So we also run health line, the Depression, helpline, alcohol and drug helpline and many, many more. And we are one of the sponsors this year. Why is it important to be part of a pride parade? It's about inclusivity and, um, community. It's just making sure everybody knows that, you know, [00:39:30] they're accepted and cherished and looked after. What does pride mean to you? Pride. Um, to me, pride means being accepted, Being proud of who you are and just not being afraid. Yeah, and, you know, just feeling loved. You know, um, pride to me is all about inclusivity. So for ages and ages, you know, the gay community and everything [00:40:00] they had to hide. And now pride is about being proud of who you are. It's about being yourself and the community. Um, pride is about making sure that everybody is supported and everybody has a way to be themselves. How are you gonna go walking with this wind and these signs? We'll see. No idea. I already feel like my fake eyelashes are gonna blow me away. So, [00:40:30] um, we have balloons coming, so I'm a bit worried about that. But, hey, it's all about having fun and showing the community that, you know, we're here for them. Yeah. Guth Bloomfield and I work for AC, C and AC. C is in the parade today. Absolutely. Yeah, we've got a, um, walking float. So we've got probably 30 40 people joining us, which should be really fun. Yeah. So how easy or hard was it to get 30 or 40 people wanting to be [00:41:00] in the parade? Really easy, actually. Um, all it really took was an email to our buildings and lots of really keen people and, um, really, quite quite easy to organise. And And we we got funding as well, which is great. So we have and a banner, so yeah, real easy. And so this is the what? The second year you've been in Wellington? Yeah. We've been in the Auckland Pride parade previously, and then this is our second year that we've been involved in Wellington. Can you describe what, uh, last year's parade was like when you were marching? Um, fantastic. You know, it was a little bit never been in a parade before wasn't knowing what to expect. You know, what [00:41:30] would people's response be to AC C being in the parade? But it was really supportive. And everyone who was in the parade just loved it and was really keen to come and do it again this year. Can you describe, uh, the the feeling that it gave you just really proud to be part of the community and to be and a bunch of people who are celebrating diversity and celebrating the people we are. I just felt, you know, it was it was a great feeling, you know? Really, really elated. Yeah. So, diversity and AC C How is diversity managed in AC? C? Yes. So, um, diversity [00:42:00] and inclusion has become more and more important. And actually, as a result of, um, us being involved in the parade last year, you know, somebody said, Hey, I'm really interested in starting up a private network at AC C. Uh, so since then, that's gone live. Um, and we've now, um, organically grown. And we've got people in different sites of AC C who join in when we have meetings by video conference, and, uh so originally, you know, more and more things are happening with our pride network. And so it really sort of became the launch pad for, um, the community being a bit more visible at AC C. But it's something that AC C is really strong [00:42:30] on and really wanting to do a lot better. So you know, it's exciting. And so what does your internal network, Uh what what do they do? So we're just sort of still forming? Um, you know, we had a launch. Um, even the Minister for AC C came along, which was great. Um, but ideally, we want to be a supportive environment for people, um, to talk through some of the issues that still face the organisation, both for our staff and also our clients, Um, and also supportive for people. Maybe that aren't safe. Don't feel safe being out at work or ready to be out at work. So really, you know, a place [00:43:00] to come together to discuss issues, be a help for the organisation, but then also supportive for our network as well are are you able to mention just some of the issues that that still need working on? Yeah. So, um, you know, one of the issues we are looking at at the moment is that you can only have male or female in our co system when you lodge a claim. So for non binary clients, you know, that's that's not a good thing. So that sparked a really good conversation around the organisation and how we fix that, Um, had lots of inquiries about, you know, how do we, uh, work with transgender clients? You know what's appropriate and what's not appropriate [00:43:30] and what you know what works for them. So it's been a really good start for a whole lot of discussions at AC C. So So So where do you think that network will go in the future? What? What are you hoping for? Yeah, so I think as we sort of form and get a lot stronger, I think we'll become the voice for the rain community at AC C, but also for our clients. And I think you know, we'll have a much more, you know, bigger input into the policies that get developed. Um, when we're dealing with, especially with, you know, clients in the rainbow community and I think that's got to be a good thing, um and and just, you know, help with people's recovery. Um, if [00:44:00] we are sensitive to the needs they have, you know? So I think, you know, that's where we'd like to see it go. Yeah, today. Why do you think pride events like this are important? You know, I think there's still, um, issues. And I think there's still discrimination out there that the community, um, faces. So it's a chance to get together and be proud of who we are and celebrate who we are. Um, but the thing I enjoy about the AC C, um, you know, floaters we have a whole lot of people who are, you know, supporters. So they come along because they support who we are in our community, and that's really exciting. So [00:44:30] to be strong, um, knowing that there's still discrimination out there, there's still issues we need to work on. We are with the Netherlands Embassy in New Zealand. We're at the Pride parade with our Dutch kissing boys dolls. So they're about 10 ft tall. Um, so they are in in the traditional del blue, which is a Dutch traditional, uh, Dutch traditional dolls. And they've been travelling around the world. They've been at the pride in Ottawa, in Canada, used by the [00:45:00] Dutch Embassy over there. And now they're in Wellington. They've come all the way from Canada, and we're going to use them to show our support for the LGBTI community in New Zealand and around the world. So who came up with a design? I believe it was the embassy in Ottawa. Yes, and now they're here. So how have they been received in other pride parades? Oh, yeah, they've been They've been a great success. And they've been in Wellington for a while as well. They've been at the World Conference in March. We [00:45:30] had them at the King's Day reception at the residence of the ambassador. And now they're here to join us in the parade. Why is it important for the embassy to be here today? Well, we feel it's promoting social acceptance and human rights of LGBT. People here in New Zealand and worldwide is at the heart of our human rights policy. Have any of you been in a pride parade before? I have, but ages ago, so I'm really excited to be a part of it again with the Netherlands Embassy. [00:46:00] Can you describe what that feeling is like? Actually, it's really incredible to hear just to see everyone here. The music is going and everyone's really festive. They're ready to go. Yeah. No, I've I've never marched in a parade. I've been to a parade. Um, I have some friends that are part of the LGBTI community, so I think it's a Yeah, it's a it's a It's a great thing to do to to show show support. Yeah, well, it's the first time to march in it. So I'm very excited. Yeah. And, um, why a pride parade so important? Because [00:46:30] it's important to show that everybody supports human rights for LGBT and that it's not just for the LGBTI community itself that the Dutch Embassy, the Dutch government, but also everybody who feels like they want to step up for human rights. So, uh, I'm Fraser. I work for Wellington City Council, uh, in the libraries. And, um, Wellington City Council is quite a queer friendly employer. Um, and it's also trying to foster a queer friendly city. Um, and [00:47:00] so Wellington City Council is a big supporter of pride. Uh, Wellington and pride in general. Um, And so we love to come out each year, uh, and support the the Pride parade. And this will be the third year. Um, we were definitely in Yeah, last year and the year before, uh, and support the out in the park and things like that as well. Um, so we've got the one of the iconic Wellington crocodile bikes today, and usually it's used by the library as a book bike [00:47:30] giving away free books to people around the city. Um, but, uh, for we, we clipped it up a bit and dick it out and bring it out for the pride parade. And so, what will the, um, city council employees be wearing? What? What kind of costumes? Um, so we've tried to encourage everyone to wear, um, something fire related, uh, to fit in with the theme. Um, but if they don't have anything, they could find anything, then, um, rainbow outfits, But also, uh, Wellington. City Council has produced some t-shirts for the employees, Uh, that say absolutely [00:48:00] fabulously Wellington, um, kind of a spinoff of the of the city's motto. And and so, Yeah, a lot of the staff will be wearing wearing those now. There seems to be a big truck coming our way very shortly. Can you just, um, describe it for me? I think that's the, um, the rainbow concrete mixer. Oh, no. Yes, it is the rainbow concrete mixer. So I believe it's, um, from Fletchers. Um, and they've, uh, cutted out one of their massive con mix. Cover [00:48:30] it in a rain flag. Uh, it's fantastic to see. It's huge. Now, now, Fraser, we we're doing this parade in May, which is in Wellington, is often quite cold and chilly and rainy and windy. Can you describe what the weather's like today? It's beautiful Wellington day. Uh, a little bit of wind, but, um, no, there's there's blue skies a few clouds around, but, um, a bit of sun it's not cold. Yes. No, it's lovely. The wind. The wind is making all the the pride [00:49:00] Flags flutter. So is this the first parade you've been in or you've been in an earlier ones? Uh, this is my third Wellington Pro parade. Can you describe what the what? The feeling is like being in a pride parade? Uh, it's fantastic. There's a lot of support from people along the streets, uh, people come out and, uh, there's people along tennis and street living in apartments, watching the, uh, the parade being put together, hanging out their balconies with, uh, flags and watching everything going on. And the community sort of comes together [00:49:30] for it, which is really, really cool to see why do you think these kind of events are important? Uh, I think it's, um it's It's two things that, um allows the queer community to have, um, have an opportunity to to celebrate and to, um, show themselves off. It brings people together. Um, and it helps, uh, the non queer community in Wellington, um, have some visibility and get involved with the queer community and, um, sort of have some buy in, um, and brings [00:50:00] brings the whole community together. Yeah. So, um, my name's Jackson. I'm the operations process manager for Saint John. And, um, I'm also the North Island representative on the Diversity and Inclusion Council specialising in the rainbow portfolio. So, um, I've organised the team down here, and, um, obviously what? Saint John doesn't operate the emergency ambulance service in Wellington, but it's really important that we you know that we are still here and proud, and our people that are still in Wellington can come out and be their true [00:50:30] staff. So, uh, you you're teaming up with Wellington free ambulance? Uh, well, it's coincidence, actually, that Wellington Free and Saint John are back to back in the parade, which is nice. We have a really close working relationship with Wellington free. So it just makes sense that we're going to have a party together today. So why is it important for Saint John to be here? We know that, uh, there's a lot of work to be done in this space looking after our rainbow communities, and we know that 10% of our workforce is identifies as LGBTI. [00:51:00] Uh, so it's just really important that we show visibility to our staff and to our people and our supporters, customers, patients, um, to know that we're an inclusive organisation and personally for you, What does it mean? Being in a pride parade? Look, it's somewhere where I can come out and be authentically me. And, um, I think it's great to just to be amongst other people that are supportive and, um, show your true colours and just have a really good day celebrating with like-minded people. So when you talk about kind of being authentically [00:51:30] me when you're at work, it's a John. Do you feel that you can be you? Yeah, absolutely. Um, I've been working with Saint John for, uh, 10 years now, and I, I know we've We've come a long way in that time, And, um, I'm proud to be able to be who I am at work. And, um, there's no prejudice or judgement that goes on, um and we've got a really inclusive organisation. We're the only emergency services with a rainbow tick. Uh, and we've done a lot of work in that space to to make sure Saint John is a safe and welcoming organisation for everyone. [00:52:00] So on a practical level, what does having a rainbow tick mean? It just basically means that we are everything that we're doing and our policies And, um, what we do at work is is kind of it's proven that you know that we are an organisation that, um that is inclusive. And I guess it's just nice to have that recognition officially from an organisation who comes in and independently looks at everything. And, uh, you know, other people can know [00:52:30] that Saint John is a safe place to work. So during that rainbow tick, uh, certification process, did you notice a change in the kind of culture at Saint John? Has it? Has it changed the culture? Yeah, I think so. I think, uh, you know, we we now we're much more out, and we're attending pride events throughout the country. We go to winter pride, Auckland Pride. Um, we've done events in Christchurch, and, uh, it's it's more than just attending the events, though we do. We're rolling out a lot of education, uh, particularly to our front line [00:53:00] staff so that they can better treat people. And, you know, a lot of it comes down to education. And, um, just knowing how to, um, how to deal with people from the community, Can you describe for me what it's like being inappropriate? It's just so it's just a thrill of walking down the street with everybody and, um, people going crazy for for rainbow and just being fabulous. II I think it's just great to get that feeling of support from the [00:53:30] crowd. And we, um it's the people that march with us are not just identifying from the LGBTI community. There's, um, these people that identify as heterosexual and they just have the time of their life walking with us and just hearing the the support from the community. So it's really great. My name's Kelly Adams. We're getting ready for the parade. We're right at the front of the parade on Cambridge Terrace. So we're a couple of minutes away from Start. And can you describe what's in front of us? Yeah, we've got some amazing motorbikes and [00:54:00] we've got a track. We've got some special guests on our track, including Karen O'Leary, the famous officer O'Leary from Wellington Paranormal as well as, um, the greens MP Jan Logie. We've got some hot bikes, all types and some very nice people. And is this the first time that we've had dyke and bikes in Wellington? It is as far as we're aware. Yeah, it is. And its current incarnation, this is This is the first time. So it's great. And so have you both, um, been on dykes and bikes before? Uh, no, [00:54:30] I haven't. Um I'm not sure if Tanya has No, I haven't. I'm from Vancouver, and I've seen it all my life And I. I finally made a dream come true to make be in one and actually help make it happen. So how did it happen this year? Um, Kelly and I just said we wanted it, so we made it happen. Basically, Yeah. And what do you think it would be like leading the parade? Uh, well, we we don't know. Really. Um, we're we're hoping there will be loads of people out, um, to watch us. Um, it'll be noisy, that's for sure. The noise is already happening. Um, everyone's [00:55:00] pretty enthusiastic, so Yeah, it's gonna be good fun. Yeah, it's gonna be amazing. Um, we're gonna rev it up. Our hearts are gonna be pounding, and we're gonna be excited, and it'll be great. Why are pride parades so important? Oh, amazing question not to bring it down, but so many people all over the world don't have the same rights we do. So even just having parades here helps them have hope as well. I like to think of that. And I also like to think of people that are still facing [00:55:30] a lot of problems and boundaries like trans folk. So we're here for them. So I'm, um, Steve Phillips, controller for upper rural fire. And so we've got two trucks here today, and about 10 of our crew. Uh, so a little smoke chaser that's been decorated now, and our big flagship tanker as well. That's also been decorated up at the moment. Can you just describe the the decorations? Yep. So, um, rainbow coloured flags and stuff on the side there, um, on both trucks and yeah, Pride parade banner. And, [00:56:00] uh, yeah, and what we've done, uh, separate to that as well, and in anticipation of the first parade has gone out and got some, uh, got some decorations from one of the companies in town just to brighten things up on the day. Yeah. Is this the first time that fire and emergency have have, uh, been in pride as fire and emergency? I believe so. And it's certainly the first time that any of the rural brigades in the Wellington area have participated that we're aware of anyway. But, uh, i'll tell you what, everybody's got stuck in behind it, and, um, it's looking like it's gonna be a hell of a lot of fun. Why was it important to be an appro breed? Well, for where [00:56:30] we stand because we're a volunteer organisation where our particular brigade is. And so we've got all sorts of, uh, different ethnicities, age groups, um, you know, backgrounds and stuff like that. And so we sort of inherently we understand diversity, right at the, you know, at the level that we work with. So, uh, for us, it resonates. Yeah, that's something that we can, uh, we can identify with for sure. What are you expecting from today's breed? Oh, maybe greater awareness. Um, and just the fact, too. I think that we come out the other side of it, and the the Wellington [00:57:00] public and the New Zealand public can see the fact that emergency services such as ours are sinked in with something like this is there's a good message that comes from that as well. Part and parcel of the community, the larger community. Yep. So, um, I am the business development manager for Coca Cola ML, and, uh, we're here with a great team of people to support the Pride parade. Is this the first pride parade you've been in? It is In fact, I've been in Wellington for about 12 years now, and this will have to be my first one, and I'm very excited to be a part [00:57:30] of it. Why isn't it important for Coke to be here today? Um, to show our support for the, uh, LGBT Q community? Um, we very we We were the first company in New Zealand to, uh, get the the the rainbow tick mark. Um, so we're very proud to be a part of that, Uh, and to be the first company to be to to receive that, um so to be part of the parade today means a lot to us and and to the G BT Q members of our, uh, of our staff. So, practically speaking, [00:58:00] what does a rainbow tick mean for, um, a Coke? Um, it means, um, uh, equality. It means that we can come to work, uh, and be part of a a company that supports, um, and and accepts us for who we are, Um, And to be part of a great organisation like Coca Cola and means a lot to the L GB QT members, uh, staff. And for those who want to be part of the organisation. So today, can you describe, uh, what your staff will be [00:58:30] wearing and the kind of float? Right. So we got, um, the, uh, pump ute with us, and we've decorated in the beautiful rainbow colours. Um, we've got, uh, T-shirts, which have got the, um, heart on it. Um, Glitter, um, with, uh, with with with a coke bottle. Um and yeah. So that's what we'll be working today with flying high with our with our pride colours today. How many participants do you think you'll have? Uh, we've got about 15 participants [00:59:00] today. Why do you think pride parades are important? We we are part of a a lot bigger community than just our community. Um, so to show love, um, to everybody else just means that we, um, are are are loved and supported by everybody else here in Wellington. Um, we want to show that everybody is not alone. Um, that we're all in this together and to have communities and, uh, organisations like just expresses that you know, they are with [00:59:30] us and stand by us, no matter what. Hi, my name is Catherine, and I am with the department of Corrections. And Catherine, we're here for the PRI parade. Is this your first pro parade? It is my first pride probe. Yes. And what are you looking forward to? I am looking forward to seeing all the colour and all the heavy faces. Yeah, of everybody here and tell me, is this the first time that corrections has marched in Wellington? I'm unsure because I'm new to corrections, but, uh, yeah, we have got a rainbow diversity Club, which has nearly been formed, [01:00:00] I think, in the past year, um, so part of that diversity group and representation, we come to the pride parade. So how many people from corrections today are marching? Oh, I'm not sure. Maybe about 30 of us 40. Yeah, I hope so. Yeah. And can you describe what you are wearing? Ah, today we all have our corrections diversity, t-shirts. And, uh, we have, uh, them all in different colours. And along with the different colours are different words, including a diversity [01:00:30] inclusion, et cetera. Yeah. So why do you think it's important for corrections to be here today? I think it's important for corrections as a department to stand for all of the smaller groups within the department because we all come together to make the department what it is. And so by celebrating our our groups, our diverse groups, our rainbow and our, uh, different ethnicities, religions and everything. Um, that's what makes the department such a [01:01:00] special and successful department. So the diversity group within corrections, Um what what kind of things do they do? So there is a committee, um, within the Rainbow Network. Um, and they, uh, they meet frequently, and they discuss the inclusion of the rainbow community within corrections. How we can be, um, more represented and supported within the department, um, as well as, uh, coming along to events like this and being able to celebrate [01:01:30] our our differences and our, um, special attributes that we have as members of the department. Now we're actually sitting on Tennyson Street, and there are, like, hundreds of people in a whole variety of colours. Can you describe the feeling the feeling? Oh, I feel ecstatic. So I think that the whole vibe along the street is just it's excitement. It's it's happiness. Yes, it's It's a wonderful feeling. I'm Sam ST I'm president of the young nationals and I'm here with National with pride, which is the, um, LGBT T plus group [01:02:00] within the National party. Um, and we're part of the the Pride community. Why is it important to be here today? We think it's really important to show people that, um, the National Party does have a pride wing to it. We do have a pride element, including the young Nats and our, um, national with pride. Um, and we think it's just really important to show our support for the community and show that we're here and we're out and proud. How big is the group within national party. So it stretches across the country. Um, wouldn't be able to give you a number. Um, but it is cross across the country in every major city, and, you know, we partake in pride events up in Auckland, Wellington, Um, and then different little ones, actually, [01:02:30] in the south island where, you know, you get 25 30 people out to a pride picnic and things like that. But, you know, we make sure we're there for those as well. And so today, um, how many people will be marching? I think we have around 20 people today marching. Yeah. Yeah, which is exciting. We've had a few people, unfortunately, quite sick. Um, time of the year, I guess. But, um, yeah, we're hoping for a reasonable turn out. Yeah. And have you marched in a pride parade before We have? Yeah. So I think this is our second or third year in the Wellington Pride parade. Um, but up in Auckland, we were one of the first groups to start with the, um, pride parade in Ponsonby. Um, so, you know, we definitely have a proud tradition of of being part of these events. Yeah. [01:03:00] Can you tell me what it's like to march in a pride breed? It's a lot of fun that that's probably the best way to summarise it. Um, we really like engaging with everyone and and just the kind of camaraderie and community that you get from everyone out. And, you know, marching is is really energising and a lot of fun. Yeah, And for you personally, um, how does it feel? Great. Really, Really. Enjoy it. This is one of my favourite events of the year. Absolutely. Yeah. So with the national, are there any policies being worked on to do with the Rainbow LGBTI communities. Sure. So, um, within I can only speak within the act because that's my kind of area of purview [01:03:30] of the national park. Um, but we definitely do. So, um, for example, most recently worked with Amy Adams, and she was Minister of Justice around the, um uh, removal of gay historical gay crime. Criminal conviction. Sorry, I was my words, Um, but that was probably our biggest and most recent push. Um, but in general, we have a really strong group of, um, of LGBT plus allies and and members of the community that that work on and advance the the policy agenda. Um, for for that group? Absolutely. What kind of issues are most concerning to Rainbow Community members, Uh, [01:04:00] in New Zealand today. So obviously I don't want to speak for the whole community because everyone's got their own particular issue. But from my perspective, I think it's around inclusivity and making sure everyone is embraced for who they are. Um, and given the opportunity to, um succeed as who they are and live their life as who they are and have the community really wrap around and and look after them. And not just the LGBT community, but the the whole community of New Zealand. Absolutely. Are there any particular bits of kind of, uh, legislation or law that, um, the young nets want to see changed in terms of rainbow LGBTI communities? Um, again, I think most recently, like I said, the the removal of, [01:04:30] um, historical gay crime rate and the biggest piece that we think was really, really important. Um, but we think, you know, supporting, um, legislation that stopped the that stops discrimination against LGT. Plus community is is really important to keep advancing. Absolutely. Um, do you have any thoughts on the, uh, gender self-identity legislation? Um, I haven't We haven't taken an official position on that. Um, so it's up to our members to decide how they how they swing on that on that particular issue. Um, so, yeah, we'll leave it open to the members to decide on that one. Good day. I'm Todd. I'm on the board of the Wellington International Pride Parade. [01:05:00] Uh, here for the parade on Saturday afternoon. How is it shaping up, Todd? It's good. Uh, we've obviously after the events in Christchurch where we had to postpone the parade. Uh, we've still got a really good number of floats around about 38 floats where we did have sort of 43. So a couple dropped off due to, uh, whatever, uh, logistical reasons. But there were some good numbers for today. And can you describe the weather? Because I'm sure Wellington in May is not normally like this. There's a gentle little zier today, which is quite nice, as our Wellingtons know, But the weather forecast as we can see, we've got a bit of sun coming through. It's meant to be all good. It's [01:05:30] only half past one, but I reckon it's gonna be good for the parade. Why are these kind of parades important? Todd, Look, it's all about inclusion. It's all about the community. Um, obviously with the events in Christchurch, it's pretty hard to, uh, come back for something like that. But I think it's important for all members of the community to get together and rally around the people. What was it like? Because the the the the the mosque massacres happened on the Friday night. The parade was due on the next day on the Saturday What was that kind of meeting on Friday night, like so we convened a meeting at my place around about 9. 30 10 o'clock on the Friday night. Obviously, [01:06:00] we took a lot of console from the police from defence and a lot of people like that. But we just thought that the mood of the country wouldn't be accepting for a parade to, um for, uh, diversity and things on a Saturday. So we just thought it's not the right thing to do, So we just postponed it. We didn't cancel it, which was important. We thought postponing it was actually a better way to go. It must have been a bit of a logistical nightmare in terms of like, uh, one, postponing it, particularly when it was happening within 24 hours. It wasn't easy. Like, uh, a lot of the people had spent a lot of time and money and effort [01:06:30] to go on a lot of the floats and the for the parade. Uh, some of them aren't gonna be here this time around, which is unfortunate, but the bulk of the people are. And look, we know that a lot of people spend a lot of money on their floats. So, um unfortunately, it just it it happened. And we just had to take the the temperature of the actual country personally. What do you get out of, uh, being in a price rate? Look, I work for a fairly well known company in Wellington, so we support the community. Um, and it's just great to have everyone on board. You've obviously got, uh, Windstone Transport. You've got New Zealand fire service. You've got the police. [01:07:00] It's all about being inclusive. So it's actually, uh, what? Something. Something that we like to do for the Wellington community. I'm Art Daniel and I'm the organiser for the Public Service Association's out at PS a network which represents the interests of the rainbow community. And what does the out at PS a network do? OK, so we try to make sure that within all of the working places and we have many as you can imagine with PS a being the largest union in the country, we have [01:07:30] over 70,000 members. Our goal is to make sure that all rainbow people, all of the rainbow, are able to bring the whole of themselves to work. And research is very clear that not only is it better for that individual to be their authentic self, it's almost almost always better for the organisation in terms of productivity and success, with you being at the coal face, so to speak. Are you seeing workplaces getting more inclusive, more diverse? Yes, yes, definitely. [01:08:00] In fact, wonderful thing is happening within the public sector. The State Services Commission has been encouraging all of the ministries and state sector organisations to establish their own rainbow networks, and so those are springing up everywhere. In fact, I noticed A CC's Rainbow Network is here today, and even more so, the State Services Commission is encouraging those networks to work together, and a PSA has [01:08:30] also been part of that process. So in the public sector, certainly there would still be some pockets of the employers. We deal with where there are still issues in terms of true equality. So we keep working on trying to improve that. What kind of issues? Uh, well, even just being out, Yeah, and then issues over some of the issues, uh, that are peculiar to trans people in terms of being able to present as [01:09:00] the gender they really are in terms of access to, uh, all gender bathrooms and that sort of thing. Yeah. So, today, uh, you're you're marching in the pride parade. Why are pride parades important? Well, we feel quite strongly that if an organisation is saying that they are rainbow friendly, that they they need to make a statement by being at events that are important to the rainbow community and showing that face, you know, that we're here [01:09:30] and that we support the rainbow community. So how many people are marching today? I think around 15. Yes. Yeah. Yeah. And can you describe for me what it's actually like to march in a pride breed? It's really quite exciting. Yeah, there's so much energy. And to see all the variety and the diversity and coming, I'm nearly 65. So I certainly remember the days when I was illegal, and so it's quite amazing to be part of a group. And in a country where [01:10:00] people are accepted for who they are, when was your first parade? I think it was one of the hero parades in Auckland. Yeah, Yeah, I come from a very conservative part of the US, and so I was not actually aware of Pride Parade. So my first one was hero, and I and I actually was on a float for the, um, the AIDS quilt. The the the hero Parades [01:10:30] were huge. I mean, hundreds of thousands of people. Um, tell me what that must have been like. Well, for me, Like I said, coming coming from a background where I'd never seen anything, it was really overwhelming. In fact, uh, I remember telling Kevin Hagg, who was a director at the time, that that I was blown away. In fact, there were tears in my eyes. It was like, Wow, I've come to a country where I can be myself. What do you think? Some of the biggest issues for rainbow LGBTI communities are in New Zealand at the moment, I think [01:11:00] particularly some elements. Some groups within the community still haven't achieved what say gay men and lesbians have achieved, in particular trans people and intersex people. And we need to keep working, I think, to make sure there's true understanding and integration and realisation that this diversity is part of what makes our planet an amazing, beautiful place. So I'm Sarah. I'm the communications [01:11:30] advisor at Wellington Free ambulance. Um, and I'm here with staff and volunteers and supporters of Wellington free. And why are you here today? So Wellington free is definitely all about being here for our communities. So that's our slogan on our, um, on our vehicle and on our jerseys today. We're here for all our communities, and we really value and cherish, um, the support that we get from our communities, the patients that we see in the community, Um, and not only the communities we really value, um, the diversity of the staff that that are involved. So, yeah. Can you just describe, um, how you've [01:12:00] dicked out your vehicles today? Indeed. So we have a special, um, vehicle called the People's Ambulance, which was fundraising by the people for the people, Um, during our 90th anniversary in 2017. So what we've done for a special edition of the People's ambulance is we've rainbow it. So not only is it the people's ambulance, it also some rainbow people on the top as a reflective strip. And it's got some, um, rainbow flags on the side where it has the people's ambulance branding. Um, we've got banners. We've got, uh, rainbow balloons that are yet to come out because it's a bit windy in Wellington at the moment. [01:12:30] So we're just gonna wait until the last minute for those just to it is light for Wellington for sure, For sure, for sure. So how did Wellington free get involved in in the pride festivities? Um, so we were aware that obviously it happened down here, but actually, we hadn't been involved. This is our first year for being involved. Um, it just it was something that we knew that was going on and staff were interested. It was just that getting everyone together and making it happen. But we spoke with our colleagues at ST John Ambulance, our friends at Fire and Emergency New Zealand and our friends at NZ Police and [01:13:00] everyone was getting involved. And we all chatted and worked together and had a lot, you know, various coffee mornings to sort of say, what should we all do? And here we all are. And so how many people are going to be marching with you today? Uh, so we've got about 40. We've got about 40 staff, which is really cool. We got 40 staff and volunteers. And we also work with, um, real estate agents. Tommy's. They support us every year. So we've got about 10 of their staff marching with us as well. So it'll be cool. So, what are you hoping to get out of us? Um, just a lot of fun and a lot of awareness. Um, we like to be visible in our community to let people know who we are and what [01:13:30] we do. Um, and we just want them to know that we're here for them, um, and and and we're, you know, supportive and inclusive of everything that we do. And, um, we just want to show people that we're here, and we love our community. And we love Wellington and, um, have a bit of fun. Why do you think, um, pride events like this are important. They're really important. Exactly for that to raise awareness and show people the diversity of the communities that we have. Um, just because, you know, we might not all be the same. I mean, he wants to all be the same. That would be boring. So, um, I think it's really important [01:14:00] to make that, you know, raise that profile and hype that awareness and everyone like I'm here looking at a, um you know, um, a concrete cement mixer that's been rainbow out. And I'm looking at vehicles that are rainbow out. And I just think it's really lovely and light and fun and heartful And who would not want to be involved in pride? Hi. Uh, my name is Alan Granville, and I'm here today representing Bear in New Zealand and be in New Zealand. Tell me about that. Uh, so basically, it's a fairly loose, uh, kind of social group of guys who kind of identify or admirers [01:14:30] of gentlemen who are bears or perceived to be bears. Um, I've been helping run the group now for several years now, and I used to run urge bar up in K Road. Um, so, yes, we're help our very first time. We're actually at this parade. So could you give me a bit of a definition of what a beer is? The age old question? What is a bear? Um, it's pretty much, uh, guys who tend to be larger set pretty much got facial hair. Uh, that tends to be the, uh, the the stereotype image of what the bear is and people [01:15:00] who like that, Uh, But these days, as as as time has gone on, that kind of stereotype seems to kind of be, uh, changing an awful lot. Like my younger people, people who actually don't have facial hair, people who go to the gym all the time. So it's a very much of a changing involving kind of group. Basically, it's basically guys who like guys. And why is it important for you all to be marching today? Um, again, it's showing visibility and showing, um, who we're representing and that, um, that there are different groups of people out there that often you may not see [01:15:30] through various kind of media. Um, you look at very much many magazines and kind of posters for dance events. And, you know, every guy look like these a kind of guys, which we all know that 99% of people aren't that, and actually, you can actually just be who you want to be. And you don't have to be an absolute gym bunny. You can go to the gym if you want to, Of course. Um, but it just guys who who focus on themselves for you personally. What's it like marching? Um, well, I've I've done the Auckland one a couple of times [01:16:00] now and it's I moved down to Wellington last year, and so it's just great to actually get a representation down here in Wellington. Um, I went to last year's parade and it was great fun, but we weren't part of it. Um, so it's great. Just be participating in it this time. So this is the first time that be as New Zealand has participated in Wellington. That's correct. Yes, the first one we've done Auckland for maybe four or five years now, I think. But it's the first one we're here. Can you compare, um, the Auckland parade to to the one in Wellington? Um, the Auckland, Well, the Auckland one is is obviously quite large. [01:16:30] I mean, in sa Ponson Bay. And it's, uh, it's not quite as easy to get to get to the crowd. This this one is much more interactive with the crowd. Um, and it's kind of a much more kind of feels like more of a homegrown one. This one, not in any way just saying to Auckland Because Auckland is great. They they they put on a great performance. Um, so this one just seems to be more kind of closer to the people. What do you think? Some of the biggest issues facing, uh, LGBTI member communities are in New Zealand at the moment. Um, obviously, uh, the, uh the the suicide [01:17:00] and the youth is is huge at the moment. And the, um obviously, the implications of the Israel Folau statement and everything that's come out very recently has brought that to the fore. It's so good to see so many people coming out against that and supporting the GL BT community. Um, I think it's it's important. The visibility. Um, it would be great if there was more sportsmen, for example. I know this country. So it's all about the sport, and it's about the rugby. It'd be great if we had some more kind of out stars. [01:17:30] Um, so I think that that representation and and and and seeing people out there who are kind of like us, um is is hugely important. Is that so? We are a student group from tech, and, um, it was born from a student group Rainbow Rendezvous. And I've got some students with me today marching. So it's just helping promote the rainbow. People are safe within and welltech and it's an establishment [01:18:00] group towards endeavouring to bring equality into the educational tertiary process within the institutes as well. So why is it important to be marching today? Um, we've got a wide spectrum of studentss at tech and and we just feel like we want to just represent everybody and, you know, march for equality. And we're involving everybody from every spectrum of life. Everyone, everyone is welcome. Everyone's involved. That's our mantra. Motto. We're open to students past, present and future staff past, present [01:18:30] and future who need ongoing education and professional development and rainbow needs. So OK, so what is it like marching in a Well, this is my first time. Yeah, this is my first time. So what are you looking forward to? Well, I don't I actually looking at all of this. I'm like, Damn, what am I missing out on? So yeah, I don't know. I'm looking forward to, you know, getting out there and seeing the reaction getting a bit of free. Well, almost free publicity For how little The fees were [01:19:00] for us, so yeah, Yeah. Same. This is my first one as well. Um, and this is well taken Rea's first time in marching in the pride parade So we're hoping to make it an annual thing. Now, I've been told we're the only tertiary institute marching today. There's a lot of corporate defence force RS A and everyone out here, but no other tertiary institute is marching today. So I'm Gavin from Rainbow Wellington. We've got a group here today that is marching in the parade parade. Um, so we try [01:19:30] and participate every year, and, um, it's fantastic. Fantastic. Uh, parade this year, it's looking really, really good. Yeah. So we're in Tennyson Street before the parade starts. Hundreds of people Can you just describe, uh, what you can see? Well, there's just an amazing array of different coloured rainbows, And, uh, all the banks have come together to celebrate, uh, together, uh, which is, which is fantastic to see. Um, there's a lot of bands, a lot of noise, and I gather the police are also marching in uniform, which is quite quite [01:20:00] good. And something that we're We're, um, certainly happy with That's, uh, quite different from the, uh, Auckland experience. Yeah, uh, yeah. I mean, they had their, you know, they had their reasons for for doing what they did. But I, um we were keen that that didn't sort of happen in Wellington. So you've been to to numerous pride events over the years. Um, can you compare this to something that happened, Say, 10, 15 years ago or even further? Um, yeah. No, this is it just doesn't compare. Uh, we we we're [01:20:30] never able to get this number of, um of people on a, you know, on a celebration march or parade. Uh, it just doesn't compare. It's amazing. And I think it's much bigger than last year, too. Um, yeah. I don't know for what reason, but it's, uh, looks really well supported. Why do you think pride parades are important? Um, I think it gives people the opportunity to, you know, to celebrate, you know, being themselves being different. And, um and yeah, it's good. [01:21:00] And so you're marching with rainbow Wellington. Can you just tell me a wee bit about rainbow Wellington? OK, Rainbow Wellington is, um uh if you like a an overarching organisation for of organisations in Wellington, we we're a charitable trust. So we and we also have, you know, formal bank accounts and formal structure of the board. Um and we So we do social activities. We do some political activities. We do submissions to parliament and so on. Um and we also support community groups with grants. [01:21:30] So I was just talking to the organisers of this, um today and said, you know, we should have a talk about how we can get more community groups to participate next year. I'm Alan. Lenny. Um, I'm here with Fletcher Building. Um, we're here today with representatives from across the whole company, um, to diversion, inclusion and our LGBTI community at Fletcher Building. Now, you've not only got people marching, but also you've got a couple of vehicles. Can you describe them for me? [01:22:00] Yeah. So, first up, we have, um, Shane, who's, uh, Winston Winston aggregates quarry manager here in Wellington. And so he leads the parade, and he's got, um, rainbow flashing lights on the top, and that's then followed by our Golden Bay Cement truck and tanker. Um, And then after that, we have our first concrete truck. Um with a ball that's wrapped in rainbow Colour. And following that, we have [01:22:30] our Winstone aggregates, um, truck and trailer. Um, and all the vehicles have rainbow decker on them. Um, and they're a permanent member of the fleet, so they drive around Wellington, and we have one across the country. Um, and it's part of our commitment to diversion inclusion and the LGBTI community and really showing and signifying that Fletcher building is a place, um, where everyone's accepted. So why is it important for Fletchers [01:23:00] to be here today? Um, I think it just clears and sends out a clear signal that, you know, we're leaders in the industry. Um, that diversity and inclusion is something that's really important to us and that, you know, we support the LGBTI community. Is this the first time you've matched in a parade? No. Um I previously marched in the parade in Auckland. Um, twice. Um, so, yeah, this is my third time marching in the parade. Well, what's what's the feeling like [01:23:30] it's It's awesome. It really is. Um, we've got, like, a real positive vibe here today. We've got a lot of people. There's people flowing from Auckland. There's people from all around Wellington across the country come together to and pride today. So it really is awesome. Hi. I'm, um Annie. I'm I identify as a non binary lesbian. Queer pronouns. She her they them And I am in Tennyson Street [01:24:00] on the way to begin an awesome pride here in Wellington. And who are you with today with Wellington, but samba here. And, um, they've played almost every pride parade, haven't they? In the last couple of years? Yeah, they have. Yeah, we've been very supportive, um, for the well way back. But the last couple of years, we've been involved, and yeah, yeah, Tennyson Street is absolutely packed with people. Can you just what you can [01:24:30] see? Oh, my gosh. Just beautiful, vibrant colours, Lots of smiley happy faces. The vibe is just quite infectious. Actually, I'm quite, um I'm a wee bit overwhelmed, to be honest with you. There's a lot of, um, there's a lot of I'm just the vibe is really quite different. I would say this year, um, I'm just feeling the love. That's it. Why? Why do you think pride parades are important? Uh, visibility in one word. [01:25:00] Uh, we need to have more visibility, take up more space. We We are, um, in the communities, but we don't all have a chance to come together and support those that can actually be visible. So it's so hugely important for those that have, um, pave the way to be able to make it easier for everybody else to just, uh, um come out if they choose to come out. Of course. But, uh, they shouldn't have to choose to come out. They should just be able to be themselves. So this is an opportunity to go. We're here. We're here. And, [01:25:30] um, I come and celebrate. Can you describe what the experience of of marching in a parade is like? Um, it's Oh, gosh. Well, being, uh, it's, um how do I say it? Probably the best way to capture it would be, um I play a big drum. So it's about the heart beat. So I am part of a big batter here. We're all one. So it's an opportunity. Those for about 50 of us to all come together and somehow in sync without talking. Um, play the same, uh beats [01:26:00] the same, um, rhythms, and it feels like it's community. So it's Yeah. So it's just a beautiful experience to be able to do that. Yeah. Hi. I'm Julia, and I'm at the very beginning of the gay parade today. And all of all of, um, flags are flying. The rainbow flags are flying and the dikes on bikes are just about to start, and they look fantastic. Can you describe some of the bikes? Oh, well, we've got, um, Harley's, I think, [01:26:30] um, What's this? The sea something. Is that a Honda? Um, we've got a wonderful one over here. You got a camera? Um, it's, uh, almost like a a mini car. Really? With no roof. Um, um, we've got a lovely woman here who's the MC, and I think she's going to have a hell of a time with her feet. Her shoes don't fit her properly, and they're already sore, but they are high heels, and she looks [01:27:00] fabulous. So is this the first parade you've attended, or have you? I've been to some in San Francisco, and, um, I've got friends, um, who helped organise the Air New Zealand section. So, um no, no, it's not new to me. Why do you think pride. Parades are important. Well, actually, I mean here in Wellington are totally accepted, but I don't think in the rural areas in New Zealand they're still accepted. But, um I I don't really [01:27:30] know because, um, to me, we're all one. What's the feeling you get from pride parades? The ones you've seen in the past? I've always totally enjoyed them. I love the flamboyance. Uh, the comma. I've just been to the most wonderful gay. Um, birthday in Westport. Um, 60th. And my friend flew in from the US along with a lot of others, and we had a wonderful time. There are about 40 of us down there in Westport, so it was a wonderful, flamboyant time, I can [01:28:00] tell you. Hey, look, they're just about to They're just about to start. So I'm just gonna ask you to commentate as they come through. You just Oh, God. Well, here we go. The flags are flying. OK, and here it is. Dogs on bikes. Can you hear them? That lovely throaty roar. Do I have to keep going? Oh, God, why can't you do it? Look, we've got floral decorations on some of the bikes, uh, ribbons [01:28:30] Uh oh. Look, there's a woman, um, here in a fantastic leopard skin outfit, she looks a bit like a cat, Um, and on the back as well. And she's got a dog. So she looks like a cat, and she's got a dog on the back. And so here's the last of them, and I can't even describe that. But how you pronounce that one? There's some unusual names on these bikes and what's coming up after dikes on bikes. Then we've got the fleet building. [01:29:00] Oh, wow. Oh, wow. In the gay parade and then in parade Pride, Pride, let me get it right. Quite short shorts. Oh, come on, hang on. Oh, not really. Short short. No, no, I wouldn't say that. I've seen some water, but it's lovely to see there's about. There's about 10, 12 of them of Fletchers. So that's pretty good. And I've all got pink hard hats on. Very nice. Oh, and here we've got this [01:29:30] wonderful truck come out. Well, Winston's here, but I love this truck. Here can. This is a big American Kenworth truck. Fantastic. Oh, God, I like it. Ah, And here we've got first concrete. And look the, um, tumbler or mixer. The huge mixer on the back. The tumbler is [01:30:00] all in the in the pride parade colours and the colours of the rainbow. Fantastic. I'm Chris Bishop. I'm the MP for heart south. I'm a national party MP marching with the national party at the Wellington International Pride Parade just down in Courtney Place at the moment, Uh, great feeling out here at the moment. Um, we're just marching to celebrate diversity and tolerance even more important these days. Uh, in New Zealand in, uh, 2019. So, uh, you were here last year? How does this compare to last year's one? We were here last year. [01:30:30] Last year was sort of, uh it's a very loud concrete truck. We were here last year as the sun was going down, uh, around about five or 5. 30 last year. It's mid afternoon. So a slightly different crowd, a bit more subdued, a bit more of a lesser, um, you know, lesser crowd, I suspect, but, um look, it's just great to see so many people out and about, and, uh, just be marching with the national party. So why do you think pro parades are important. Oh, look, I think it's really important just to send a message. It's really important that cities come together, you know, every [01:31:00] now and then to send a message that tolerance and diversity is really important, that everyone's valued, uh, no matter their sexuality or their gender orientation. Uh, and actually, no matter what religion or faith they are, everyone's important, um and, you know, entitled to equal equal respect and human dignity. So rich hooli. I'm with New Zealand Rugby. Um, obviously here supporting the rainbow community. So it's pretty exciting. Actually, it's, you know, there's lots going on, lots of colour, lots of different [01:31:30] faces. And yeah, it's it's just really cool to be here. Is this the first time you marched in appropriate, uh, in Wellington? Yes. Uh, so we were in the Auckland parade last year. Um, which is really great and back. First time in Wellington. So can you describe the atmosphere? How does it feel? Uh, lots of noise. It's very exciting. I think, um, you know, people are just, uh, just really excited to be, you know, out and about. And and, as I say, just really supporting the community, which is awesome. Why is it important for New Zealand rugby to be here today? Uh, well, we've always said, you know, like it's about, um, showing [01:32:00] everybody that that rugby is for everybody. It's a it's a game for all, and And we, you know, we really mean. And so I think we want to be here, Um, really representing the game and and making sure that people see that it's visible. We out here in the community, so Yeah, cool. How many participants do you have today? Uh, we've got about 20 here, but, um, lots more. Obviously around about, uh, very supportive as well, but just couldn't make it today because clearly, on a Saturday afternoon, there's lots of rugby going on and And why? Pride parades important. Um, it's just a visible A really visible, [01:32:30] you know, Um I guess way of supporting. You know what is a really important, um, you know, thing for for the the community and our game. So, yeah, we we really wanted to be out here and and in as much colour and and, um, and numbers as possible. I'm Justin Leon there of Wellington. We're down at the Wellington International Pride parade and you got thousands of people lying in the streets. Uh, a wonderful sense of love and huge support for our pride community. And you're looking for your flute? Yeah, I'm just trying to find the welling City Council team. We've just, uh we'll just, uh, cut [01:33:00] the symbolic ribbons. So now I'm gonna find the council team and because I know that we've got a hugely board of team there, and, uh, and our queer council group as well going to join them in March in the parade. What about Wellington's weather? Who would have thought this would have been May? Yeah, it's beautiful. It's, uh yeah, certainly. Someone's, uh, looking down upon us. Favourably. Um, look, uh, yeah, wonderful weather, very mild. And, um, who knows a little bit of drizzle later on a big gay rainbow in the too. Can you describe the size of the crowd? It's a huge crowd. We've got thousands [01:33:30] of people lining at the length of Courtney Place. We've got, I think, more than 40 groups marching today, ranging all the way from Fletcher Building to the defence Force. The Air Force, Uh, a whole lot of public institutions and private organisations as well. Huge, huge support. It's amazing. Now, A couple of years ago you said you were gonna bling up your mural robes. It hasn't quite happened, has it? Now? Amanda Hall is gonna dress me up today, but I think she's been busy dressing herself up. So, um, although I did have the Christchurch deputy mayor, he's here today and he's [01:34:00] wearing hot pants and that's about it. He's, um, oil all oiled up. So the challenge is next year I'll look, who knows. But at the moment we're outside the opera house. I'm with the Fire Brigades Beautiful entry as I'm walking from the chorus corner of drag to get after my shows down to the main stage to join my sisters, who have been hosting today. So how was the Drake stage? It was amazing. It was a really great way just to showcase some really fabulous queens from Wellington [01:34:30] and not have to worry about, you know, the weather. Anything else happening this to his church? You're looking amazing. Can you describe what you're wearing? Thank you. It's a self creation teaming with our theme of fire this year as a board member of the Wellington International International Pride Parade. I thought I'd better team with a theme or get a hiding from Amanda. Can you describe the, um, the crowd today? The crowd has been phenomenal for an event that we have put back on after a bit [01:35:00] of a hiatus due to the tragic events in Christchurch, we are so stoked that everyone's come out to support Wellington International Pride Parade 2019. Can you just describe, um, the the the fire float that's about campaign? They haven't put my fire out, though. They're obviously off duty, but I love a good man in uniform or a woman. Oh, look at, um, the crowds really great today. Um, it's it's it. It is a really cool that Wellington [01:35:30] vibe about it. I mean, I keep running into people on the sidelines, and I keep seeing friends in the parade, so I think it's got that really cool. You know, Wellington Village. Feel about it. Um, someone was saying this is not Mardi Gras. And I was like, Yeah, thank God. Because, you know, this is this is typically Wellington, right? So how would you How would you describe Mardi Gras? Um glitzy, Big, massive. I mean, really commercial. What I like about this is that, um it's it's got a real community [01:36:00] feel. It really reflects who and what what? We are in Wellington. What is the, um what is the best float you've seen so far? Um, I was quite impressed with the firefighters, and, um, I was just talking to the Dutch ambassador before, and she said that she's got this really cool float coming on with, um, big, you know, sort of dolls kissing each other, So yeah, I'm quite looking forward to that. Yeah. Can you just describe to me what's coming towards us now? OK, so, uh, we [01:36:30] a shopping trolley looks like with a pink flamingo in it. It's the countdown float. So Yeah. There you go. Um, a lot of, um, local businesses, um, are are represented here today, which is which is really cool, too. Yeah. Oh, OK. Here. We have some cool dancers making a lot of noise, [01:37:00] and, um and and really cutting some nice moves coming up the street. It's amazing. Here comes the Wellington City Council. Uh, the Where's the mayor should be here somewhere. [01:37:30] He, uh the the mayor is in one of those four wheeled bicycles that annoys me on an Oriental parade. But he looks amazing. He looks, Yeah, fantastic. He's it's jammed on the back. There's quite a few of them on that little, um, very, very, um, colourfully decorated four wheeled bicycle. And there's a lot of bubbles being blown. I I spy some other counsellors. Nicola Young. It's extremely eco-friendly. [01:38:00] Yeah, the mayor is blowing bubbles and peddling his four wheeled bicycle and waving at me right now. Hi, Mayor. Excellent. That's fantastic. [01:38:30] So, Jared, here we are marching in the Pride Parade. How's it feeling? Oh, it's great. This is the first time I've marched as a non uniform member, a civilian employee with the defence force, and it it. It makes me feel just as proud to be here with the Overwatch group rather than marching in uniform. But every year we do it, it gets bigger and better, uh, great [01:39:00] support from our organisation and great from the public. Jared, if we just turn around behind us, What? What can we see? It's a light armoured vehicle. Go. Yeah, so it's the first time we parade a light armoured vehicle in the parade, but, uh, every float requires a vehicle, so we thought, Well, we'll we'll bring one that really means something to us. So that's, uh, part of our core equipment to carry out the missions the government sent to hold overseas. I've got to say, that doesn't look light at all. It looks huge. Oh, yeah, There are. There are heavier [01:39:30] armoured vehicles. We only have, uh, light armoured vehicles in New Zealand. Yeah, so So what does it mean to you to be kind of marching and praying? Well, I think it's It's a recognition originally about the pride movement, which, of course, initially focused on, uh, just on, um, homosexuality and gays. But of course, now it's evolved into a celebration of the the entire community and all the aspects that that embraces and also give us those who support us on a day to day basis the opportunity to, [01:40:00] you know, public acknowledge that, uh, support they give us as well. And what does it mean to you personally? Oh, I just think they're they're my colleagues. They're my friends. Um, and I'm very proud of all of them. Um and I very appreciate of the support I've received over the 30 odd years that I've served in the defence force and this chairing is actually for the defence force, isn't it? Yeah, it's very it's It's a great acknowledgement by the the people of New Zealand to the work we do and the fact that we're an organisation that supports all our people. [01:40:30] I'm I'm the Dutch ambassador here in Wellington for New Zealand and we're participating in Wellington's prize. Yeah, we wanted to participate this year actually because I think it's an important thing in the foreign policy of the Netherlands. We promote human rights of LGBTI worldwide member of the Equal Rights Coalition, and we are active wherever we can can be. Can you describe your float, please? Now my float is actually my staff. That's of course, the core [01:41:00] of the float and their families, but also the inflatable kissing dolls del blue really, really dark and they signified importance that the Netherlands government attaches to the human rights of LGBT. Is this the first pride parade you walked in? Really? I walked also in the one in Amsterdam, which is a bit of a different atmosphere and its own canals because I was not really walking. But this is like the first one in New Zealand. As I recently arrived. Can you describe the feeling, please? It's [01:41:30] fabulous. I think that the atmosphere is great. All kinds of people, really a diverse range of people are older people. Young people LGBTI whatever and it's really a fantastic atmosphere. Why do you think pride parades are important? I think it's important to realise that something that not only for like New Zealand, but I think also worldwide that you can be the person that you actually want to be without fearing of discrimination, violence or whatever. I think it's important to celebrate [01:42:00] it every year. So Grant Robertson, um MP for Wellington, Central Minister of Finance. We're standing outside the grand on Courtney Place behind two, as they were described to me blue blobby, um, who are kissing each other, Which is a good thing. Um, yeah, and part of the rainbow Labour, Um, team that's here at the Pride parade and what a team. Because to our left, we have Thomas Coffy and to our right, we have Paul Eagle a front row to die for. I would say so grant. Why Pride parades important. They [01:42:30] remain important. What I said when I was on the stage actually is to celebrate, um, the past to be able to acknowledge the people who got us to where we are today, Um, which is a huge journey, but also to think about the future. And the fact that, you know, being a young, queer person still isn't easy for a lot of people. There's still a lot of discrimination. There's still an opportunity for us to alter, embrace diversity in our country. And so for me, these parades are just so important for giving people that sense of hope. You know, I was watching a whole group of young queer people today, [01:43:00] and I could tell that this was one of the first times that they had actually been out and about. And I just think that's fantastic. Yeah, well, talking about giving people hope. So you're the Minister of Finance Budget coming up. Is there anything in there specifically for LGBTI Rainbow people will have to wait, but, um, we're certainly very well aware, particularly with the big focus we've got on mental health this year, that mental health issues are a massive challenge for our communities. And so, yeah, um, I don't get to reveal the budget early, but what I can say is that we're very aware of of [01:43:30] the particular needs of our communities and being well and being mentally well. And how is that portfolio going for you personally? The finance one. It's great. It's a massive privilege. You know, I get to be part of the really big decisions we make as a government, and and part of, I hope in making New Zealand a better place. And, um, yeah, you know, it's pretty busy, quite stressful, but massive privilege. Can you describe the scene in front of us? So, in front of us, we've got this a massive sea of flags of rainbow and [01:44:00] green party banners and blue banners. And along the side, it's we've got, you know, ordinary Wellingtons who've got smiles on their faces, which is just, you know, a fantastic thing. It's a Saturday afternoon in May, Um, and there's all these people gathered around all and you go down the chute here as we reach Taranaki Street. Um and it kind of makes the parade come in really tight and really close and you just feel all the energy and it it's just fantastic. Oh, look, I. I can't believe how dynamic it is. It's vibrant. There's so much [01:44:30] energy. It's amazing. It's fantastic. And you look amazing. Thank you. Yes. So I decided I needed to go all out this year. So I've got my rainbow sequenced outfit on and my trans earrings, which I actually have deliberately worn. I think it's really important to emphasise trans non-binary, uh, issues for me. They are still, um, areas that we have to work harder on. Can you describe the feeling of what it's like to be in a breed? [01:45:00] I think what I've seen today is so much pride from right across society, corporate New Zealand. But I've loved our defence force and just Yeah, we've had the Army, the police, the Navy, uh, those who are defending our shores who are here in numbers. And there's just so much energy. It's loud. People are dancing, there's music. The crowds are thick. Everybody is here to show that this is a really special and important event for Wellington. [01:45:30] So, yeah, I just want to say congratulations to Mayor Justin Lester and his council. Uh, they've actually, I think created an international pride event that hopefully will become part of the international calendar. And we'll have visitors flock to Wellington to be part of it. Bye. Tell me, how's it going, Amanda? Huge. Much bigger than I thought it was gonna be. And it's relentless. Hi, everyone. Ya Labour Party. [01:46:00] I love them. This is just breathtaking. How many people are marching? Do you think there is approximately 2800? 2800 Amazing hello in New Zealand as one of our major sponsors. Hi. In New Zealand, they have flown all the way from all over the world. Wow! [01:46:30] And they're hot. Oh, look, look, look. You look out here and the imagination, the number of people involved. Absolutely astounding. I'm through to bits. Absolutely true. Congratulations to the organisers. The energy is is there's an of joy and the is magic. Now I see this. You've actually got your police cat. Oh, yes, Yeah. I have [01:47:00] to support the police because I didn't like what Auckland did. And here we are. I think they're just about to come up now. I've also got my New York vest on. And I don't know if I will dare take my shirt off and buy jocks. I see the police here. Look at that. We got the police. Isn't that wonderful? [01:47:30] I mean, they get enough flack, and we know what it's like to get Flack. And here we are. We've got the police. So where are you? Where are you? Great. You got to get a photo with the commissioner, Commissioner. [01:48:00] Yes. So, have you guys been to a bride parade before? This is my first time. Uh, this is my first time, too. And can you describe it? How was it? It was really fun. Like, at first I thought it was really, like, not many people around because I arrived a little bit early, [01:48:30] so a little bit disappointed, But then it turned out really cool. A lot of people I feel like home. Uh, yeah, it's really great. It's, like, really great being represented and being visible. And just like being able to be open like this, What was your, um, favourite kind of float? Uh oh. It's hard to choose. Uh, probably The tank there is like a an armoured vehicle rolling fast. I didn't expect that. I like the big balloon right [01:49:00] there. Oh, yeah, Yeah. I like that one right there. Really cool. Why are pride Parade is important? Why do you like them? Oh, because it bring people together and like Like we have somewhere that we can relate and our orientation and diversity. That's really cool. I think it's a great way for the queer community to come together and to really be accepted in society. [01:49:30] We have to be visible. We have to be known that we are here and we are not leaving. What was the feeling when you saw the parade go past feel really right? There's a lot of hot. It's a great feeling, just like it's a good feeling. Just like energetic. Just like being able to be here is like a really good feeling. Hello? Hello, Dave. Look, we're not [01:50:00] going to be long. We just wanted to say a few, Thank you. First of all to all of you guys to be part of this now, I've got a few people standing here who have made this all happen. By the way, my name's Richard. I'm the chair of the Wellington International Pride parade board. This has been a journey. It's been a journey with the cancellation or the postponement, but we made it happen. And pride is back. We have taken the streets [01:50:30] back just quickly. I'm gonna start at the far end here. Todd Hamilton. Cook supplied the car. Heather Ha. Penelope England Mia slapper. She does have another name. Simon. Our own City councillor, Nicola Young. Without her, the council wouldn't have helped us so much. So, Nicola, she's our door opener. And then Fraser Shaw. [01:51:00] He's just been amazing. And of course, no introduction is needed for this one. Mr. Amanda LA. OK, we're gonna let the music go. We're gonna replay the parade, so please stay along. See what you missed, because the whole thing is gonna go up here. Thank you.
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