Gay Night Club (Press, 2 October 1985)
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Summary: Gay Night Club (Press, 2 October 1985)
In a letter to the editor dated September 18, 1985, T. P. Stirling recounts an experience his partner and he had after attending a dinner party with friends. They decided to visit "Menage," a newly opened gay nightclub. Upon arrival, they were informed by a doorman that the club was full and only allowing entry to patrons who were either gay or regulars. Stirling expressed his shock at this apparent discrimination, particularly since he had supported the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, which aimed to provide greater rights and freedoms to the gay community. Stirling and his friends engaged in a discussion for about 15 minutes, during which they observed that ten people had left the nightclub. Eventually, the manager arrived and sided with the doorman, allowing a group of quieter patrons entry while instructing Stirling and his friends to leave. This encounter left Stirling feeling disappointed and ironically aware of the shift in discrimination; they, as heterosexuals, faced exclusion rather than inclusion. In response to Stirling's letter, Mr T. W. Tucker, the director of Menage Night Club, clarifies the club's policy. He states that Menage is dedicated to providing a safe venue for the gay and lesbian community, where they do not have to hide their sexual orientation. Tucker explains that due to physical limitations in capacity, preference is often given to regular patrons, regardless of their sexual orientation, particularly during peak times on weekends. He acknowledges Stirling's support for the Homosexual Law Reform Bill and expresses regret for the situation, reiterating that the club's policy will remain in place. He notes the unwelcome irony in Stirling's experience, as it reflects the everyday discrimination faced by the gay and lesbian community in New Zealand.
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