Ngahuia Te Awekotuku published New Zealand's first openly lesbian fiction in the 1970s, and in that same decade she was denied entry to the United States for being gay - classed as a "sexual deviant". Ngahuia talks to Kathryn Ryan.
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Summary
This summary covers an interview with Ngahuia Te Awekotuku, conducted by Kathryn Ryan and recorded in Auckland on March 1st, 2017. Ngahuia Te Awekotuku is a celebrated figure in Aotearoa New Zealand, known for their role as an advocate for LGBT and Māori women's rights. Over nearly five decades, Te Awekotuku has made significant contributions, including publishing New Zealand's first openly lesbian fiction in the 1970s, a period during which they faced discrimination, most notably being denied entry to the United States on the grounds of being a "sexual deviant."
Te Awekotuku shared experiences from childhood, including being raised in a Māori community with a strong presence of weavers, storytellers, and strong, courageous women. This upbringing in a culturally rich environment, despite societal tensions around their attraction to girls, instilled in Te Awekotuku a sense of hope and the belief that one could achieve their dreams independently. Te Awekotuku also mentioned a relative, Donna, who was at the forefront of activism during the same period.
Additionally, the interview covers Te Awekotuku's academic background, including an unfinished law degree followed by a transition to English literature and art history. Their university years coincided with a time of political activity and the emergence of groups such as the Women's Liberation Group, which Te Awekotuku helped found, and the Māori activist group Nga Tamatoa. The environment of Auckland during this time is described as a hub of exultant political activity, facilitated in part by government policies that allowed for a focus on both activism and academic excellence.
A reflection of the journey through the gay liberation movement showcases an article by Te Awekotuku published in 1971 that argued against the harmful classification of LGBT individuals as 'deviants' and emphasized their humanity and positive contributions to society.
Despite advancements in legislation that decriminalized homosexual acts and legalized same-sex marriage, Te Awekotuku expressed concern over how much these changes in law have truly touched the change of heart of society at large. Questions remain about whether society has reached a point of acceptance where expressions of affection by LGBT individuals do not provoke negative reactions.
Te Awekotuku touched on the mental health implications of societal acceptance, particularly among Māori youth, and pointed to the necessity of full acceptance within small communities and mainstream events, using Te Matatini, a Māori cultural festival, as an example of positive representation and celebration of Māori identity.
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