Paul Letham An Auckland counsellor who specialises GLBT issues, identity, sexuality and self-image concerns has underlined the importance of the community being able to express itself in a parade and festival. Mind Your Head counsellor Paul Letham says the visibility of the GLBT community is sometimes a contentious issue. “Some feel that the overtly camp stereotypes typically demonstrated at these sorts of festivals serve only to further marginalise those who may be struggling with their sexuality. Others, like myself, believe that a bold, colourful statement of the GLBT community’s culture can really only be a positive thing.” Letham says through his work he is only too aware of the issues that can arise when a community, especially one as diverse as ours, does not feel able to freely express itself. “Things have undoubtedly changed over time, a result of various pieces of legislation being passed, together with the normalisation of GLBT characters in films and television, however there is still work to be done,” he says. “GLBT individuals remain over-represented in mental health, addiction and suicide statistics. Gay youth continue to be kicked out of their family homes, and many in the GLBT community live in situations where to explore who they are carries significant risk. These issues can negatively influence the choices they then make.” Letham says while the Pride Festival allows for the broad expression of cultural identity, localised community-based services provide tailored support to people on their journey towards self-acceptance. “Equity and social justice remain contentious issues in the lives of GLBT individuals in New Zealand. “Issues of stigma and discrimination continue to pose barriers to their wellbeing. “Full access to equality has yet to be achieved. Auckland’s Pride Festival 2013 signals a step towards redressing this imbalance in the lives of GLBT people by providing them the space to be who they are, without compromise.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 21st February 2013 - 11:51am