Crowd favourite OverWatch in the 2013 Auckland Pride Parade (picture: GayNZ.com) A leader in the Defence Force has announced he will march in the Auckland Pride Parade, saying he wants to “experience what it means to be the minority, if only for one day”. Assistant Chief of Personnel Brigadier Howie Duffy has pledged his support to the Defence Force’s glbti support group OverWatch, saying its historic involvement in the Parade last year was a big step for the NZDF. “The reception the group received was overwhelmingly positive. It publicly demonstrated the NZ Defence Force is a modern and progressive employer, that we value the skills and professionalism of our people above all else, and that there is no room for discrimination within our ranks,” Brigadier Duffy says in a letter to OverWatch. “A contingent of our people will be marching again this year – and this time I will be marching alongside them. I made this decision for several reasons. “Firstly, I want to show my support to our people – ALL of our people – and let them know that their leaders acknowledge and value the contribution they make. “Secondly, I want to put myself in their shoes and experience what it means to be the minority, if only for one day. “Lastly, it is easy for leaders and those in command to talk a good game, but it means nothing unless you are willing to act on that. Walking the walk may be difficult at times, but it is something good leaders do to support good people.” OverWatch says it’s honoured to have Brigadier Duffy marching with it this year. “Congratulations to him, and to the other NZDF leaders and allies for the courage, comradeship, commitment and integrity they are showing to support their people,” it says. Any current or ex-serving NZDF members who would like to march with the NZ Defence Force as part of Auckland Pride 2014 should register their interest by emailing overwatchevents@nzdf.mil.nz - including their service number.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 28th January 2014 - 9:41am