Mon 24 Jan 2011 In: New Zealand Daily News View at Wayback View at NDHA
The burnt-out Blooming Blubs shed The community is stepping up to help the Northland lesbian couple whose business was destroyed in what is believed to be an anti-gay arson attack. The Mangawhai Heads packing shed of Lindsay Curnow and Juliet Leigh's company Blooming Bulbs was burnt down on January 15, a week after anti-lesbian hate graffiti was sprawled on their house, car and the shed. Police believe the fire was arson and are seeking whoever is responsible. The women are remaining as upbeat as possible, but they are unsure whether they have the heart to reopen the business – it's impossible for them to trade this season as a result of the fire. They are insured but there are a number of things that will not be covered. Many in the GLBT community have been asking how they can help and the Gay Auckland Business Association has come to the table offering to administer donated funds to the women through its charitable trust. GABA President Glenn Sims says the community is desperate to help the women out after the horrific arson. “This raises broader questions about the safety of GLBT New Zealanders, which needs to be addressed. But in the meantime this fund is a way people can help Lindsay and Juliet get back on their feet.” You can make a donation to the women at this account: ASB 12 3064 0216613 00. Please ensure it is clearly marked Blooming Bulbs. Donations can also be made by credit card here: https://www.givealittle.co.nz/org/GABA Auckland's Urge bar will be doing a collection for the pair this weekend and there will be a stall at the GABA tent at the Big Gay Out on February 13, raising money for the women by selling donated items. Dunedin's Botanic Aromatic is supplying “renegade lavender” soap bearing an anti-homophobia message on the label, while Jacquie Grant from Sock World is donating possum socks. Anyone who wishes to donate items for the stall should email president@gaba.org.nz A Facebook group has also been launched to show solidarity for the couple, Opposition to hate crime against Blooming Bulbs.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 24th January 2011 - 1:49pm