Carmen Rupe died in December 2011 A number of the late Carmen Rupe’s long-time New Zealand friends are making their way to Sydney for the long-awaited unveiling of her headstone tomorrow morning. The traditional Maori unveiling ceremony will be held at Carmen’s burial plot at Rookwood Cemetery, two and a half years after the legendary transgender New Zealander died. It was delayed by difficulties signing off on the nature of her headstone. The unveiling has been organised in consultation with the Rupe family in New Zealand, along with some of Carmen’s close friends. Organisers say the traditional unveiling, which is usually held after 12 months after someone dies, will be a time for celebration and will incorporate a reflection on her special life, much colour, an official call to the grave, the haka and traditional Maori songs. Jacquie Grant is among Carmen’s New Zealand friends who will attend. A special hui is also being held after the unveiling at Markets Hotel, with all the tickets snapped up. It will feature a hangi lunch, plus a performance by the Te Raranga Whanui Sydney Maori Cultural Group and others.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 6th June 2014 - 10:44am