Gays Sad About Glad Song Ban (Press, 18 April 1978)

The Wellington Gay Liberation Movement has expressed outrage over Radio New Zealand's decision to ban the British record "Sing if You're Glad to be Gay," labelling it as “blatant and unjustifiable discrimination” against homosexuals. A spokesperson for the movement, known only as Mr Hunt, pointed out that the song, which is currently featured in the British “Top Twenty” charts, offers significant political and social commentary regarding the oppression of homosexuals in Britain. Mr Hunt highlighted that homosexuals in New Zealand also endure similar forms of discrimination and harassment, drawing attention to what he described as the “unenlightened attitude of legislators” concerning the fundamental human rights of all New Zealanders. Mr Hunt further reported that Beverley Wakem, who heads the programmes for Radio New Zealand, informed the Gay Liberation Movement that the ban was due to the song's violation of the Broadcasting Corporation’s programme rules and existing radio regulations. This decision from the broadcasting authority has sparked a conversation about the rights of homosexuals and the extent of censorship within New Zealand’s media landscape. The controversy surrounding the ban underscores the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the country, particularly in light of the broader societal attitudes and legal frameworks pertaining to sexual orientation and rights.

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