There is a mandate for relationship law reform, say the Campaign for Civil Unions, and its time to recognise the diversity of relationships in New Zealand society today. Speaking at a select committee hearing on Monday on behalf of the Auckland branch of the campaign, David Friary said the Civil Union and Relationships Bill will address unjustified discrimination. “Gays and lesbians will be able to publicly affirm their commitment to each other, and have the law recognise that commitment." The Campaign noted in their submission that self-esteem comes from feeling affirmed and included in society, and that the stigmatisation of same-sex relationships in law has had a detrimental effect on gays and lesbians, especially youth. Research from the American Psychological Association was provided to support the claim. “The public commitment, celebration and endorsement of relationships is important,” says part of the submission. “The Civil Union Bill will affirm and reinforce long-term, committed gay and lesbian relationships. We support that.” The submission also noted that 64% of New Zealanders believed that same-sex couples should be allowed to legally register their relationships and receive the same protections as married couples, according to an AC Nielsen survey conducted in September 2003.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Thursday, 26th August 2004 - 12:00pm