Sun 8 Feb 2015 In: New Zealand Daily News View at Wayback View at NDHA
Prime Minister John Key on stage at the Big Gay Out Prime Minister John Key has been loudly booed as he took the stage at this afternoon's Big Gay Out in Auckland. Key spoke briefly, acknowledging the crowd and telling them he was pleased to be present. He also reminded the crowd that he voted for the same-sex marriage legislation. Not all were anti-Key however and the PM was swamped with requests for photos as he left the stage. One of those sitting near the stage who booed Key says he did so because "I just don't like him, eh! He isn't doing much to help our whanau" Another says: "He is just trying to use us for votes." Another crowd member felt the booing was "a bit rude actually." "I have two really important messages for the gay community," Key told the crowd. "The first one is: make sure you play safe because that is critically important. And the second thing is to make sure that as part of your general health measures you get tested regularly. It's hugely important and is going to keep the community in totality safe. Years ago when I first came here the National Party didn't get a terribly good reception but guess what? I voted for gay marriage so there you go! Entertainer Mika who was on stage during Key's appearance acknowledged the $85,000 in government funding announced this week for gay, lesbian and transgender youth projects. Earlier, soon to retire Green Party leader Russel Norman received a warm welcome to the stage and reminded his audience of the Greens' long-term commitment to human rights. He saluted those glbti people who have "over many, many years over decades to protect their rights. The Green party is very proud to have been part of achieving those freedoms." Part of the crowd gathered in front of the BGO stage
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Sunday, 8th February 2015 - 3:05pm