‘Gay’ Rights An Election Issue? (Press, 27 June 1978)

The Gay Liberation movement, which began in the United States, has been a source of inspiration for homosexuals globally, including in New Zealand. However, recent months have seen setbacks for American homosexuals, with local laws protecting their rights being overturned in cities such as Miami, Wichita, and St Paul, among others. While California voters will soon decide on the hiring of homosexual teachers in schools, it appears that only San Francisco’s local ordinance supporting homosexual rights is secure amidst a generally hostile environment. This situation may discourage New Zealand homosexuals, where political figures also show limited support for equal rights. In 1975, an amendment to decriminalise consensual homosexual acts was rejected in New Zealand’s Parliament, and since then, the issue of homosexual rights has largely been sidelined in national politics. Although there were attempts to include “sexual orientation” in the grounds for discrimination under the Human Rights Commission last year, these were unsuccessful as well. Nevertheless, homosexuals in New Zealand have been organising for both social and political activism, resulting in the emergence of approximately 20 affiliated groups and around 40 to 50 homosexual organisations nationwide. This year marks a significant push to raise awareness about discrimination through "Gay Pride Week," held from June 25 to July 7, which commemorates the 1969 riots catalysed by police action against homosexuals in New York. The week began with a march and wreath-laying event in Christchurch to honour oppressed homosexuals, particularly those persecuted during the Nazi regime. Accompanying the public events, a forum titled “Gay Rights are Human Rights” is scheduled, demonstrating the growing visibility of the movement. The National Gay Rights Coalition, formed in 1977 to unite various organisations, is spearheading the campaign for political recognition of homosexual rights. The coalition has hosted seminars and conferences while producing materials to educate political candidates and the public on the challenges faced by homosexuals in New Zealand. A booklet outlining the current status of homosexuals will be circulated to candidates, along with a follow-up questionnaire aimed at determining their positions on gay rights. The coalition plans to share the results of these questionnaires to inform voters who prioritise the issue. As part of their efforts, the coalition will employ “zap packs” detailing significant issues for the homosexual community, encouraging discussions during campaign meetings, and distributing stickers to indicate candidates who oppose human rights. Additionally, pamphlets will be made available to further raise public awareness during the upcoming elections. Through these initiatives, the coalition is striving to reintroduce the topic of homosexual rights into the political discourse, signalling an assertive push against discrimination in New Zealand society.

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