Beacons of Hope 1993

The Beacons of Hope event, held on May 23, 1993, at Frank Kitts Park in Wellington, New Zealand, marked the international launch of the 10th International AIDS Memorial commemorations. This gathering, significant both nationally and globally, was a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering those who had died from AIDS-related conditions and showing support for those living with HIV/AIDS.

The event featured speeches and performances by various notable individuals, including members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and the New Zealand Youth Choir. The audience, who held flaming torches symbolizing the lives lost to AIDS, were welcomed by hosts Sue Bergin and Pauline Gillespie. Their opening remarks highlighted the importance of creating a supportive social environment to help those living with HIV/AIDS maintain their health and basic human rights.

A central theme of the evening was the need for ongoing education and behavioral change to prevent the spread of HIV. This message was echoed in a statement from New Zealand's Governor General, Dame Catherine Tizard, read by Kate Harcourt. Tizard emphasized that while the fight against AIDS had seen some progress, much work remained to be done, particularly in terms of awareness and prevention. The Governor General's address also called for continued support for those affected by the disease, underscoring the importance of human rights and access to healthcare.

Fran Wilde, then-Mayor of Wellington, spoke next, expressing gratitude to the numerous sponsors and individuals who had supported the event. Wilde praised the efforts of the AIDS Foundation and the broader community, noting the importance of visibility for the gay community and the need to combat the stigma and prejudice surrounding HIV/AIDS. Her speech was a call to action, urging the public to recognize the impact of AIDS on the community and to take positive steps to address it.

Catherine O'Regan, Associate Minister for Health, followed with a powerful speech about the need for compassion and dignity in treating those with AIDS. She reaffirmed the government's commitment to amending human rights legislation to combat discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, a stance that was widely supported by the audience.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening was a speech by Tom O'Donoghue, a person living with AIDS, who shared his personal experiences of living with the disease. O'Donoghue spoke candidly about the physical and emotional challenges of AIDS, including the stigma and prejudice that often accompany the illness. He praised the support he received from friends, family, and healthcare professionals, and highlighted the critical role of community in combating the disease. O'Donoghue also called for continued efforts to educate the public about HIV/AIDS and to support those affected by the virus.

The event also included a message from a woman living with AIDS, read by Claire Turner, a volunteer with Wellington's Āwhina Centre. The message conveyed the deep emotional impact of the disease and the importance of love and support from family and friends. The writer, who chose to remain anonymous due to the stigma associated with AIDS, expressed a desire for greater understanding and compassion from society.

A particularly moving address was delivered by Gloria Taylor and her daughter, Eve van Grafhorst, who was then in the advanced stages of AIDS. Gloria and Eve's words underscored the importance of love, hope, and courage in the face of adversity.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial procession of flaming torches, representing each New Zealander who had died from AIDS related conditions. This powerful visual symbol, accompanied by music from the orchestra, served as a tribute to those lost to the disease and a reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. The event ended with a moment of silence and prayer, bringing together the audience in a shared moment of remembrance and hope for a future free from the devastation of AIDS.

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Claire Turner Eve van Grafhorst Fran Wilde Gloria Taylor John Boyd Kate Harcourt Katherine O'Regan Pauline Gillespie Sue Bergin Tom O'Donoghue Very Rev John Murray

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