John Fisher(March 2011)

The summary of John Fisher's keynote presentation at the AsiaPacific Outgames, held in Wellington on March 16, 2011, reflects on the individual's journey in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in the context of international human rights law, personal struggles, and the progress that has been made over the years.

The presenter returns to their homeland, feeling a sense of belonging and connection with the AsiaPacific LGBTQ+ community. They highlight significant moments from the conference, particularly noting the impact of the trans and intersex hui. Discussion moves toward the challenges and progress in the journey toward equality. The presenter recounts their experience growing up when homosexuality was still a criminal offense in New Zealand, emphasizing the sense of liberation felt when the law was reformed.

Reflecting on the international advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, the presenter recollects speaking at the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna in 1993, marking the first instance of a LGBTQ+ person addressing a UN World Conference. This moment signifies the beginning of change in how LGBTQ+ issues were addressed in global forums. They discuss the ongoing battles at the United Nations, including the difficulties faced when Brazil presented a resolution on sexual orientation and human rights, which was deferred and ultimately withdrawn.

The Yogyakarta Principles, a set of standards applying international human rights law to sexual orientation and gender identity issues, are introduced. These principles were developed to bridge gaps in international human rights protections that many states were reluctant to apply to LGBTQ+ individuals. The presenter argues that while seen as groundbreaking, the principles are a simple affirmation of existing rights to dignity and equality.

Further advancements within the United Nations are highlighted, like the Universal Periodic Review, where countries undertake to improve their human rights records, including those related to LGBTQ+ rights. The presenter lauds recent progress, such as Nauru's commitment to repeal outdated colonial laws against same-sex conduct.

During the address, international support for a Joint Statement on ending violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is acknowledged, alongside concerns about potential counterstatements restricting LGBTQ+ rights.

The presenter offers examples of how activists worldwide have utilized the Yogyakarta Principles creatively to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, including educational materials, comic books, and legal analyses.

In the conclusion, the focus shifts to the sense of unity and strength within the LGBTQ+ movement. The individuals in attendance are encouraged to take heart from collective energy and reminded that their cause is just and their voices, when raised together, are powerful.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

John Fisher

2010s, asia pacific outgames (2011), human rights, john fisher, law, rosslyn noonan, transcript online, wellington town hall, yogyakarta principles (2006)

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