In an unprecedented move, Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard has announced he will host a special event to mark the 20th anniversary of homosexual law reform in New Zealand. The event is scheduled for July 8 at the Auckland Town Hall and includes special guest speaker, Fran Wilde, the MP who championed the legislation through Parliament in 1986. “This is the first time a mayor of Auckland City has held a civic event to exclusively honour the gay and lesbian community,” says organiser Bruce Kilmister. “It is a milestone for Auckland City as well as recognition for the LGBT community that Auckland City values and recognises its LGBT community as full and equal citizens of this city.” A significant number of gay, lesbian and straight MPs will also attend the function and Fran Wilde will deliver the keynote address. Auckland City councillors will represent the city and Mayor Hubbard will welcome guests on the city's behalf. “It is important we remember our history and value it,” says Kilmister. “There are those who would turn it back if they could. This event marks a special day in our history when we secured our human rights just 20 years ago.” July 9, the actual anniversary, rates as a significant date for New Zealand's LGBT community, he adds. There is limited space available in the Great Hall, and 500 tickets have been delivered to Auckland-based LGBT groups for distribution to interested members. Groups with tickets available thus far are: GABA, Gayline, NZAF, Rainbow Labour, Rainbow Youth, Auckland Community Church, ALBA, Aquarius Club, Fifth Season Gardening Group, Gay Bridge Club, Sunboys, Gay and Lesbian Bowling Group, Swimming Group and Body Positive. If your group is not listed, please contact Bruce Kilmister at Body Positive.