Public Attitudes To Homosexuality (Press, 24 December 1973)

In a letter published on 24 December 1973, R. N. Kennaway, the Christchurch spokesman for the New Zealand Homosexual Law Reform Society, addressed criticisms made by Jim Abelson regarding the society's objectives. Kennaway clarified that the society aims to reform laws so that consensual homosexual acts between adults in private are not classified as criminal offences. He dismissed Abelson's claim that the electorate had been misled by various professionals, including clergy and academics, into accepting "public displays of perversion." Kennaway argued that this perspective demonstrates a lack of understanding of homosexuality. He referenced a pamphlet by the British Medical Association (B.M.A.), which states that many homosexuals do not exhibit signs of serious mental illness and are as well adjusted as society permits. He highlighted that the argument for legal reform, as stated by Dr D. L. Mathieson, is rooted in the potential to alleviate human suffering, which he deemed a reasonable justification for reform. Kennaway's letter emphasises the importance of recognising the humanity and rights of homosexuals, challenging societal misconceptions and advocating for a change in the legal treatment of homosexual acts among consenting adults. The letter concludes that no further correspondence on this topic will be accepted, indicating a desire to move the discussion forward in a more constructive manner.

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