Homosexual Law Reform (Press, 21 August 1973)

Changing social attitudes in New Zealand are increasingly reflected in the growing focus on reforming laws around homosexuality. A private member's bill is set to be introduced to Parliament later this year, aimed at legalising homosexual acts between consenting adult males in private. In April 1973, Minister of Justice Dr Finlay expressed support for such a bill, indicating that it would enable a free vote in Parliament and voicing his commitment to giving it parliamentary time. Evidence of changing attitudes includes the emergence of gay liberation movements in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, which aim to educate the public about homosexuality and assist homosexual individuals. These movements, alongside the longer-established New Zealand Homosexual Law Reform Society, have garnered support from sociologists and medical professionals. They argue that until the outdated laws on male homosexuality are amended, public perceptions will lag behind contemporary medical and social understandings. Limited research on homosexuality's prevalence and impact in New Zealand exists, yet initiatives like the one led by Roman Catholic priest Rev. F. Donnelly aim to provide support. Father Donnelly has established a homosexual bureau in Auckland, offering confidential advice and assistance to homosexuals and highlighting the need for societal acceptance. He will be a key speaker at the upcoming national conference of the Gay Liberation Movement in Christchurch on 25 and 26 August 1973. The Christchurch Gay Liberation Movement, represented by Mrs D. Halpin, has reportedly received numerous calls for assistance since its inception two years ago, demonstrating a pressing need for support among homosexual individuals facing challenges living as a minority in a largely heterosexual society. Halpin noted that many involved in the movement, including the Homosexual Law Reform Society, are not themselves homosexual but are committed to advocating for reform and public education to foster acceptance of homosexual individuals as law-abiding members of society. Halpin contests common misconceptions about homosexuals, asserting that male homosexuals are not always effeminate and female homosexuals do not conform to a masculine stereotype. She emphasises the importance of social justice and argues that society must grant homosexual individuals the right to lead their own lives. The Gay Liberation Movement aims to educate the public on the issues facing homosexuals, contending that these challenges are not a matter of choice. Both the National and Labour parties' conference resolutions support the reform of current laws. The movement's objective is to enlighten the public on the necessity of law changes, advocating for a shift away from outdated British laws that have been discarded in more progressive societies. Halpin believes it is time for New Zealand to adopt similar humane reforms to create a more accepting environment for homosexual individuals.

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