Richard Tankersley The Human Rights Commission is condemning the Auckland pastor who told a gay man he would pray for him to commit suicide, and urging New Zealanders to stand up to hate attacks. “New Zealanders who preach hate and violence are fundamentalists, they are extremists and they are the problem,” says Human Rights Commissioner Richard Tankersley. “Hatemongers who attack gay Kiwis need to know their behaviour has no place in Aotearoa.” The Commission says attacks on gay and transgender New Zealanders are not new, but they serve as a reminder that hate and intolerance exists in our communities and our cities. “This is an appalling case and I know most New Zealanders will find it offensive and unacceptable” Tankersley adds. “I encourage Kiwis to not be bystanders, to stand up if we witness hate attacks whether it’s in a pub, in your church or even on social media. Let victims know they’re not alone: but crucially let perpetrators know New Zealanders will not stand by silent while they spread hate and violence.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 8th December 2014 - 5:12pm