An interview with Steve McVey and Alan Kwok about Wellington Frontrunners - a rainbow running group. This interview was recorded during the community event Queer History in the Making.
Summary
In an interview recorded during the Queer History in the Making community event on September 12, 2015, Alan Kwok and Steve McVey discuss the significance and activities of the Wellington Frontrunners, an inclusive running group based in Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand, that welcomes individuals from the LGBT community as well as anyone interested in running or fast walking. The group meets consistently every week, organizing runs on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings followed by a brunch, creating a social and engaging environment for its members.
Beyond the regular social runs, Wellington Frontrunners also engage in training for various competitive events, both domestically and internationally. Despite the unexpected cancellation of the Asia Pacific Outgames in Auckland, the group's members still planned to participate in an alternative social run event in the city, exhibiting their dedication to both the sports and the community aspects of their group. The discussion illustrates the mix of competitiveness and camaraderie within the group, with a core group of members regularly entering competitions, though the overall atmosphere remains friendly and inclusive.
When asked about the personal significance of running, the interviewees express that running brings both a physical rush and a sense of vibrant liveliness post-exercise. They highlight the affordability and health benefits of running, as well as the unique experience of running in a group compared to running solo, praising the social connections that the activity fosters.
Transitioning to a broader context, the conversation shifts towards the reflection on progress made since the 30th anniversary of New Zealand's Homosexual Law Reform Act, noting the evolving needs of Rainbow Communities and the ongoing journey towards equality and recognition. Despite noteworthy advancements, including marriage equality, the necessity for continuous change and advocacy within the community is emphasized.
Even as the interview briefly touches on international perspectives on gay rights, with a nod to recent legislative changes in the United States, the conversation comes back to the local achievements and the symbolic importance of marriage equality. For some, the legalization of gay marriage represents more than the institution itself; it symbolizes gaining the same rights afforded to others and the celebration of equality.
Towards the end of the interview, the interviewees encourage listeners to support the Wellington Frontrunners by following their activities on social media and participating in their events. The interview concludes on a light note with a cheeky inquiry about whether the participants have checked out the group's online presence.
This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.
Voices
Tags
2010s, alan kwok, aotearoa new zealand, archives, asia pacific outgames, auckland, community, history, homosexual law reform, homosexual law reform act (1986), human rights, lesbian and gay archives of new zealand (laganz), marriage equality, national library of new zealand, proud to play nz (2016), queer history in the making (2015), running, san francisco, sport, steve mcvey, wellington, wellington frontrunners