Book Opposes Homosexuality (Press, 3 October 1985)
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Summary: Book Opposes Homosexuality (Press, 3 October 1985)
On 1 October 1985, a new book titled “The Social Effects of Homosexuality in New Zealand,” was launched by the Coalition of Concerned Citizens. The book, which questions the societal relevance of consenting homosexual adults' behaviour in private, is edited by Mr James Bacon, a senior lecturer at the University of Canterbury, and 5000 copies have been printed for sale at $5.95 through bookshops. Bacon expressed hope that the book would be widely read to raise awareness about concerns related to the quality of life in New Zealand.
The book includes a personal testimony from Mr Gavin Johnstone, a former homosexual from Christchurch, detailing his experiences and the process of his “healing.” It provides summaries of arguments for and against the proposed homosexual law reform, focusing on the objections to it with an emphasis on religious, social, and health concerns.
The Coalition of Concerned Citizens outlines several recommendations: they urge individual members of Parliament to vote against the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, advocating that while homosexual acts should remain criminal, jail sentences should be replaced with fines. Furthermore, the coalition recommends extending immunity from prosecution for individuals with HIV/AIDS-related conditions when they seek help. They propose that statements made to medical or social workers regarding homosexual activities should not be admissible in court, and they call for free and confidential medical examinations for diseases associated with homosexuality.
The coalition also suggests establishing programmes aimed at reversing homosexual behaviour, which should be freely accessible in major population centres. Moreover, they advocate for school health programmes to portray homosexual behaviour as anti-social, abnormal, and self-destructive.
Mr Bacon concluded the launch by stating, “It is very much our business that society is under attack,” emphasizing the need for community concern and action regarding these issues.
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