Gay Lib. Opposes Dr Wall’s Move (Press, 3 June 1975)
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Summary: Gay Lib. Opposes Dr Wall’s Move (Press, 3 June 1975)
Auckland is set to see the formation of a new committee aimed at opposing a controversial amendment to the Crimes Amendment Bill proposed by Dr G. A. Wall, the Member of Parliament for Porirua. This initiative comes from the Gay Liberation movement, following a recent national conference held at Auckland University. Dr Wall's amendment seeks to criminalise the act of leading individuals under the age of 20 to believe that homosexual behaviour is acceptable. The Gay Liberation movement, represented by spokesman D. R. Russell, expressed strong discontent during the conference over what they called a "blatant violation of democratic rights." The 100 delegates in attendance were both astonished and angered by the proposal. In response, they voted to establish a committee in Auckland, joining a similar group already formed in Wellington that is also dedicated to protesting the amendment. This amendment is scheduled to be reviewed by a Select Committee in approximately two weeks. While the delegates acknowledged that there are "some minor progressive aspects" within the broader Crimes Amendment Bill, they firmly rejected it, emphasising that it discriminates against homosexuals. The conference members advocated for the repeal of all antihomosexual laws and called for new legislation to prohibit discrimination against homosexual individuals. Russell pointed out specific discriminatory practices related to taxation, housing loans, and wills, which they argue should not be applicable solely to heterosexuals. The committee intends to augment the movement's efforts in education and publicity, aiming to reach out to homosexuals of various ages who may still be in denial about their sexual orientation. Their goal is to help individuals recognise their sexuality as a valid and normal preference, thereby fostering a more accepting environment within society.
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