Michael Stevens A prominent gay activist and researcher is urging young glbti people to shrug off complacency and to get involved in further improving the lives of glbti people. Speaking after an Auckland University Pride Week address in which he compared today's University environment for gay people to what he experienced during the flowering of gay lib activism in the 1970s, Michael Stevens says he wants students to take advantage of their time at university to "engage with ideas and not to be complacent" in the face of recent successes in work towards legal and social equality. "Don't forget that there are elements in New Zealand who would like to undo all the work that has been done so far to improve our lives," he says. Stevens hopes young glbti people will take part in events like Pride activities as well as using and contributing to university queer spaces. "Go to the queer space at your university, see what's happening, meet people and get involved," he urges. "It could be at a social level or more... establish connections." He says he recognises that for some young people, especially those from cultures which have narrow or destructive attitudes to homosexuality, becoming involved can be a difficult personal step. "But if you feel isolated, don't be scared to connect," he encourages. Stevens' address, titled The Personal, the Political and the Poof: Coming of Age at Auckland Uni. was one of a number of events scheduled for this Pride Week.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 27th August 2014 - 10:11am