Kāpiti Gay host Tony Reed talks to PrideNZ founder Gareth Watkins about some of the significant people and events recorded in 2023 by PrideNZ.
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The 2023 retrospective broadcast from Kāpiti Gay on Coast Access Radio provides a review of significant moments, voices, and challenges within Aotearoa New Zealand's rainbow communities over the past year. Hosted by Tony Reed and featuring PrideNZ founder Gareth Watkins, the programme offers a vibrant and moving account of events, activism, and personal journeys, framed through recorded interviews and live coverage.
Opening on a celebratory note, the broadcast revisits a pride hīkoi in Wellington. The event, described as a vivid and emotionally uplifting occasion, was especially meaningful for newcomers to the pride experience. The audio captures a kaleidoscope of voices and visuals, from creative signs and inclusive slogans to the infectious atmosphere of rainbow solidarity. This joy, however, is contrasted starkly by events that followed just weeks later.
One of the pivotal moments of the year was the arrival of British anti-transgender activist Posey Parker in New Zealand. Her scheduled speaking engagements provoked widespread counter-protests, including what became the largest rally for trans rights ever seen in the country. Thousands gathered in Wellington to oppose her rhetoric, which was widely perceived as promoting hate and division. Attendees at the rally articulated powerful testimonies about the right to self-determination and the unwelcomeness of imported intolerance. The widespread support at the event was noted to have had a meaningful, uplifting effect on the transgender community.
The ripple effects of Parker’s visit were deeply felt throughout 2023. Gareth Watkins and guests from InsideOUT Kōaro, including Tabby Besley and River Ayto, reflected on the significant uptick in online harassment directed at rainbow organisations and individuals, particularly trans and drag communities. Besley and Ayto detailed the emotional toll of moderating hate-filled content and the strategic considerations required to respond effectively while continuing their core advocacy work in schools. They highlighted the systemic nature of the hostility, linking local developments with similar trends overseas.
Education emerged as another flashpoint, with debates surrounding inclusive guidelines and transgender rights surfacing during the general election campaign. Several political parties were criticised for stoking fear and division, with InsideOUT Kōaro noting increased pressure on their work in schools.
The programme also honoured individuals whose lives and legacies shaped the national conversation. A segment was devoted to remembering Georgina Beyer, the world’s first openly transgender mayor and Member of Parliament. Friends Chanel Hati and Renee Paul offered heartfelt reflections on their decades-long friendships with Beyer, recalling their early encounters in Wellington’s performing venues and the influence Beyer had in empowering others to live authentically. Her passing in 2023 marked the end of an era, but her trailblazing spirit was noted as paving the way for future generations.
Another deeply moving story was that of Joan Bellingham, a lesbian woman subjected to over 200 sessions of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the 1970s in an attempt to “cure” her sexuality. Bellingham’s candid testimony highlights the cruelty and ignorance of past medical practices. Despite enduring trauma and long-term health effects, she expressed a desire to focus on healing rather than resentment. Her contributions to the Abuse in Care Royal Commission underscore the importance of historical accountability and recognition of past wrongs.
The broadcast concludes with the courageous valedictory speech of Harry Dynes, head student at Blue Mountain College, who came out publicly as gay during his farewell address. Speaking candidly about anxiety, identity, and the journey toward self-acceptance, Dynes’ message resonated with authenticity and hope. His declaration was described as both a personal liberation and a symbol of progress within schools and rural communities.
Overall, the 2023 retrospective offered by PrideNZ is a powerful reflection of resilience, resistance, and community strength. Through personal stories, political commentary, and historical insight, it captures a year marked by both joyous celebration and intense struggle. The recording stands as a vital archive of a community navigating turbulent times with courage and solidarity.
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.
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