A.I.D.S. Clinic Name (Press, 10 April 1987)

On 10 April 1987, the A.I.D.S. Support Network announced its rejection of a proposal to name the new A.I.D.S. clinic on Tuam Street the Lambda Centre. The network co-ordinator, Mr Ian Smith, expressed concerns that the term "lambda" carries homosexual connotations and noted that there is currently a Lambda Centre in Christchurch. The suggestion to use "Lambda" originated from a member of the Canterbury Hospital Board, who pointed out that lambda, as the eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet, is frequently associated with A.I.D.S. as a symbol. Instead, the A.I.D.S. Support Network proposed naming the clinic the Ettie Rout Centre, however, the Canterbury Hospital Board's policy prohibits naming facilities after individuals. Despite this, Mr Smith articulated the network's ongoing support for the Ettie Rout Centre name, emphasising the historical significance of Ettie Rout's contributions during World War I. He highlighted her notable efforts to combat sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhoea and syphilis, by distributing condoms and educational material to troops upon their arrival in France. Ettie Rout’s work in promoting sexual health had been recognised abroad, particularly in France and England, but had largely gone unacknowledged in New Zealand. Mr Smith felt that naming the clinic after her would be fitting, as it aligns well with the mission of the clinic and reflects its focus on education and prevention in relation to sexually transmitted diseases.

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