‘Human Rights Future Staked On Gay Bill’ (Press, 6 August 1985)

The future of human rights in New Zealand hinged on the outcome of the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, as discussed at a pro-bill meeting in Christchurch that attracted over 500 attendees on 5 August 1985. Fran Wilde, the Member of Parliament who introduced the bill, emphasised that the campaign represented more than just legal reform; it reflected the state of New Zealand society, which she suggested was displaying troubling aspects. She dismissed claims made by the bill's opponents, which suggested that its passage would lead to public homosexual acts or solicitations, clarifying that the bill would not alter the Crimes Act or the Marriage Act. Wilde asserted that the approval of the bill would allow the estimated 5 to 10 per cent of homosexuals in the country to be free from legal discrimination, while its defeat could threaten other human rights, such as women's rights and the fight against racial discrimination, due to the influence of "bigots" opposing the bill. Unionist Martin Moodie, speaking at the meeting, asserted that the bill was fundamentally a human rights issue and, therefore, a concern for unions. He condemned the extremism being pushed by Christian groups against the bill and urged attendees not to succumb to the fear of being labelled for their support. Dr Peter Johnson, representing the A.I.D.S. Support Network, argued that the fight against A.I.D.S. should not be undermined by erroneous beliefs that the bill would facilitate the spread of the disease, claiming that the reform would encourage individuals to seek necessary awareness and support without the fear of criminalisation. Mark Vivian, an unordained minister, critiqued the fear-driven arguments from some Christians, urging them to confront their emotions and reconsider their interpretations of Scripture regarding homosexuality. Annamarie Jagose from the Gay and Lesbian Rights Group described the ongoing societal persecution of homosexual individuals as a "witch hunt" and argued that the law reform would alleviate social pressures and grant them equal status—stressing that the community encompasses around 300,000 individuals in New Zealand deserving of equality. Wilde concluded by calling for public support for the bill, encouraging attendees to engage with their MPs and political leaders. She expressed a desire for future generations to live in a society that not only tolerates differences but welcomes them. The meeting stood as a significant moment in the ongoing conversation surrounding human rights and acceptance in New Zealand, highlighting the broader implications of the bill beyond legal change.

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