Homosexual Law Change Urged (Press, 22 April 1968)

On 22 April 1968, the New Zealand Homosexual Law Reform Society published two pamphlets advocating for the decriminalisation of private homosexual activity between consenting adults. The society argued that the legal status quo represented a longstanding injustice, effectively branding nearly 50,000 men as potential criminals due solely to their sexual orientation. The pamphlets emphasised the need for understanding and support for homosexual individuals, who come from various professions and social classes, and who may include close relations, such as sons and brothers. One of the pamphlets consists of 50 questions and answers addressing common misconceptions about homosexuality. It states that homosexuality is not a disease, points out the uncertainty of treatment outcomes, and highlights how existing laws make homosexuals vulnerable to blackmail and suicidal tendencies. Additionally, the society noted that while Minister of Justice Mr Hanan had dismissed some arguments against reform, the government appeared to have misjudged public sentiment, as reflected in numerous church reports. The second pamphlet, authored by Mr C. J. F. Parkin, a lecturer in philosophy at Victoria University and an Anglican lay reader, argued that legal reform would help homosexuals better integrate into society and seek necessary support without the fear of criminalisation. Parkin contended that homosexuals can be found across various professions, challenging stereotypes that characterise them exclusively in a narrow manner. Addressing the notion of sexual impulses, the pamphlet acknowledged that while self-control is a valued trait and many homosexuals manage it, it is unrealistic to expect all individuals to refrain from sexual experiences entirely. The pamphlet highlighted that marriage, commonly viewed as a solution for sexual fulfilment within heterosexual contexts, is not an option for homosexuals. The Homosexual Law Reform Society, which includes notable figures such as Anglican bishops and several professionals from diverse fields, is set to present its case to the Parliamentary Petitions Committee in the upcoming session, advocating for a significant change in New Zealand's laws regarding homosexuality.

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