Looking To Our Histories

A 16-part podcast series produced by Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura and Rainbow Hub Waikato. The team set out to explore the experiences of Takatāpui and Rainbow elders. They wanted to identify specific risks of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Alongside this, they wanted to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of the needs of Takatāpui and Rainbow older people in strategies, policies, and services for the elderly in Aotearoa. For more information visit the Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura website.

Hohou Te Rongo Kahukura · Looking To Our Histories

Summary

The interview offers a profound exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the context of New Zealand. It delves into the personal experiences of individuals who navigated societal norms, discrimination, and the evolving landscape of acceptance.

One of the interviewees recounts their upbringing in a generation where being open about one's sexuality was fraught with danger and shame. They recall the frustration with younger generations who may not fully appreciate the struggles that paved the way for their current freedoms. The narrative reflects on the harsh realities of past decades, where nightclubs were raided by police simply because they were gay venues.

A poignant aspect of the discussion is the evolution of family dynamics within the LGBTQ+ community. One person talks about their child, who proudly identifies with having three mothers and one father, and navigates their own journey of sexual identity. This contrasts sharply with the speaker's own childhood, where the notion of same-sex parenting was not even conceivable.

The interview also touches on the intersection of religion and sexuality. One participant shares their experience of being a Catholic convert who fell in love with a woman during their theology studies. They describe the covert nature of their relationship, going as far as to disguise their home whenever family visited. They found solace and community in a group called Acceptance in Sydney, which provided a rare safe space for gay Catholics during a time when they felt utterly isolated.

The broader social context is also examined, highlighting how small-town life in places like New Zealand exacerbated the feeling of isolation for LGBTQ+ individuals. The lack of visible role models and cultural representation led many to believe they were alone in their experiences. This sense of isolation was compounded by the very real threat of legal repercussions and societal ostracism.

Despite these challenges, the narrative is also one of resilience and activism. The interviewees discuss their involvement in protests and community organizing, such as joining GayLink in its early days before homosexual law reform. These efforts were crucial in fostering a sense of community and pushing for legislative changes that would eventually decriminalize homosexuality and improve the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.

The impact of these changes is evident in the reflections on how the LGBTQ+ community has evolved. While there is a sense of pride in the progress made, there is also a recognition of the complexities that come with greater societal integration. The interviewees note that the tight-knit nature of the LGBTQ+ community has somewhat dissipated as acceptance has increased, leading to a more dispersed sense of community.

The personal anecdotes continue to paint a vivid picture of the past. One individual recalls the oppressive atmosphere of a homophobic workplace, where refusing to sign a petition against law reform led to ostracism and labeling. Another recounts the terror and resilience experienced during a march by the Destiny Church in Wellington, where a small group of LGBTQ+ activists bravely stood their ground against a hostile crowd.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.