“Gay Lib.” March (Press, 1 July 1974)
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Summary: “Gay Lib.” March (Press, 1 July 1974)
On 1 July 1974, Christchurch experienced significant disruption as around 200 supporters of "Gay Liberation" marched through the city's inner streets, bringing traffic to a halt for approximately half an hour. This march was part of a series of events held during “Gay Liberation Week,” which ran from 23 June to 2 July. Marchers carried placards with various slogans and were heard chanting messages such as “ABCD, homosexuals should be free” and “Two-four-six-eight, Gay is just as good as straight.” The demonstration, featuring the presence of nine police officers for oversight, surprised many members of the public. Reactions varied widely; while some individuals laughed or expressed curiosity about the protestors, one man attempted to voice his opposition during the gathering at Cathedral Square but was gently restrained by police. As the march unfolded, pamphlets were distributed among the crowd, outlining the marchers' motives. The literature asserted that the participants were “fighting back” against being considered New Zealand's most neglected and vilified minority. The pamphlet clarified their stance, stating, “We are neither begging nor pleading, but demanding from a position of pride and strength.” Despite the anticipated turnout, only about 250 people assembled in Cathedral Square to support the marchers. One participant was left wishing for a larger crowd to join them in their demonstration. After approximately five minutes of chanting, the marchers concluded their protest and headed to a dance event they had organised, marking a vibrant yet challenging moment in the movement for gay rights in New Zealand.
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