Opposition To ‘gay’ Law Reform Questioned (Press, 3 April 1985)

Cardinal Williams' statement on the Catholic Church's opposition to homosexual law reform has been called into question by Professor Jim Robb, the president of the Homosexual Law Reform Society. Robb, who is affiliated with the sociology department at Victoria University in Wellington, expressed concern that the Cardinal's position may have been inaccurately presented or incomplete. The legislation in question not only legalises homosexual acts between adult men but also aims to grant equal rights against discrimination to homosexual individuals under the Human Rights Commission Act. Robb argued that for the Cardinal to oppose this aspect of the bill suggests a belief that Christians should have the right to discriminate against homosexuals, which could deny them access to jobs, housing, education, and services. He interpreted the implications of the Cardinal's message as supportive of discrimination, which would result in embarrassment for many Catholics. The society is hopeful that if approached, Cardinal Williams would likely issue a strong condemnation of discrimination and prejudice, given that the Catholic Church has historically defended the rights of those aligned with its moral or doctrinal beliefs. Robb's statements highlight a desire for clarity and a correction from the Cardinal regarding his comments, which seem to imply an endorsement of discriminatory practices contrary to principles of equality.

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