Homosexual Law Changes (Press, 29 October 1985)
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Summary: Homosexual Law Changes (Press, 29 October 1985)
In a series of letters published in response to controversial opinions, T. Wainwright raises a crucial question regarding the legal rights of gay individuals in society. Wainwright argues that, like any other demographic facing discrimination—whether based on race, sex, or religious beliefs—gay people should have the same protections under the law. This is particularly pertinent in situations where individuals wield authority over employment, housing, or the provision of services. Wainwright emphasises that the fundamental rights to legal protection are essential in a free society and points out the inconsistency in providing such protections to fundamentalist Christians while denying them to members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly lesbians. Another letter by P. Norman Davey criticises Paul Maling's views on rape, suggesting they are primitive and potentially harmful. Davey expresses concern over Maling's comparison of human behaviour to that of tigers as a justification for rape, arguing that such justifications are dangerous and diminish the severity of the crime. He urges that human beings possess the capacity to understand and empathise with one another, which stands in stark contrast to Maling’s assertion that rape could be seen as a natural act. Davey insists on the need to protect young males from older, more dominant individuals and advocates for a male age of consent to be set at 20, reflecting a belief that current societal attitudes towards consent and protection are inadequate. These letters reflect broader societal debates of the time regarding sexual rights and protections, highlighting the ongoing struggles for equality and the need for responsible discourse around sensitive topics such as consent and sexual orientation. The views expressed reveal a community grappling with issues of justice, protection, and the moral implications of sexual behaviour, further illustrating the tensions present in 1980s New Zealand regarding gender, sexuality, and societal norms.
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