‘Absurd Claims’ By Petitioners (Press, 16 April 1985)

On 16 April 1985, the Lesbian Coalition responded to claims made by a group collecting signatures for petitions opposing the Homosexual Law Reform Bill. The coalition characterised these claims as absurd, stating that the petitioners had accused the homosexual community of harassment. Ms Julie Glamuzina, a spokeswoman for the coalition, argued that the petitioners were themselves engaging in an organised campaign of harassment against lesbian and gay individuals. The situation escalated when members of the homosexual community reported feeling intimidated and abused by those who supported the bill during the signature collection in Wellington. Glamuzina highlighted that some individuals from the community became so upset by the hostile environment fostered by the petitioners that they chose to tear up petition forms. She pointed out the double standard in society, asserting that if petitions were being circulated against any other minority group, it would likely provoke widespread public outrage and potentially more violent reactions than what was exhibited by the gay community. According to Glamuzina, the focus of the gay community's response was primarily to inform the public regarding the true implications of the petition against the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, rather than inciting anger or hostility. The Lesbian Coalition's statements underscored the tensions surrounding the debate on LGBTQ rights in New Zealand during this period.

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