‘Homosexuals Have A Right To Be Heard’ (Press, 9 April 1976)

On 9 April 1976, Mr P. R. H. Maling, the Christchurch publicity officer of the Gay Liberation Front, spoke out against the exclusion of homosexuals from teaching human development and relationship programmes in schools. He made these comments in response to a letter written by Mr N. W. Harris, the vice-chairman of the Concerned Parents’ Association, which appeared in "The Press." In his letter, Mr Harris expressed concerns about whether the Department of Education could guarantee that these programmes would promote heterosexuality as the preferred way of life, urging that practising homosexuals, regardless of their qualifications, should be barred from participating. Mr Maling argued that removing homosexual voices from education would hinder the teaching of human relationships and development. He emphasised that children should receive comprehensive information about both homosexuality and heterosexuality, allowing them the freedom to explore and determine their own sexual identities without fear or societal pressure. He stated that such openness could help alleviate the distress faced by many individuals who identify as homosexual and feel marginalized by society. He pointed out that practising homosexuals are uniquely qualified to address the complexities and challenges of living as a homosexual within the current societal framework, suggesting that their inclusion in educational settings would lead to better understanding and acceptance of different sexual orientations. Mr Maling clarified that the Gay Liberation Front did not aim to promote one sexual orientation over the other; rather, it believed in allowing individuals the autonomy to choose their sexual identity free from external influences. Furthermore, he expressed the view that an individual's sexual orientation is either inherent or established early in life and cannot be altered. He articulated concern over the harm caused to individuals when societal and legal pressures lead to a division between their true selves and societal expectations. Emphasising the need for genuine recognition of human rights, Mr Maling concluded that education is crucial in fostering lasting changes in societal attitudes towards homosexuality and in supporting the acceptance of diverse sexual identities.

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