Wellington Pride Parade 2025 - opening speeches

The opening speeches at the Wellington Pride Parade 2025 set the tone for a vibrant and inclusive celebration of diversity, identity, and community. Held on the corner of Cambridge Terrace and Courtenay Place, Wellington, on 8 March 2025, the opening featured a series of powerful speeches, acknowledgements, and cultural performances that underscored the importance of visibility, unity, and ongoing advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights.

The event opened with a mihi and waiata, led by representatives of Te Atiawa Taranaki Whānui, grounding the gathering in the tikanga and history of the local iwi. Their words highlighted the resilience and interconnectedness of the community, drawing on the symbolism of Wellington’s fierce yet unifying winds. This was followed by a welcome from the Mayor of Wellington, Tory Whanau, who reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the rainbow community. She expressed pride in Wellington’s reputation as an inclusive city and pledged to continue advocating for the rights and protections of LGBTQIA+ individuals, with a particular emphasis on standing alongside transgender and non-binary whānau.

A special tribute was given to the Grand Marshals of the parade—Scotty and Mal, long-time figures in Wellington’s LGBTQIA+ scene, and performers Willy Smack'n Tush and Lilly Loudmouth. These individuals were recognised for their dedication to fostering safe spaces and for their advocacy in shaping a more accepting and celebratory environment for all. Their contributions were described as legendary, with a lasting impact on the local rainbow community.

Dutch Ambassador Ard van der Vorst took the stage to offer an international perspective on LGBTQIA+ rights and progress. Speaking both as a diplomat and as a member of the rainbow community, he reflected on his personal journey, recalling his first Pride in Amsterdam 35 years earlier. He spoke about the Netherlands’ pioneering role in marriage equality while acknowledging that work remains to be done, particularly in banning harmful conversion practices. His message reinforced the idea that Pride is not just a celebration but an ongoing movement for justice and equality worldwide.

Throughout the event, acknowledgements were made to the organisers, volunteers, and performers who helped bring the Wellington Pride Festival together. Representatives from Ngā Uri o Whiti Te Rā Mai Le Moana Trust shared their voices through waiata, adding to the richness of the gathering.

The speeches carried a strong message of resilience and defiance in the face of ongoing challenges. Speakers reminded the crowd that while progress has been made, the fight for true equality continues. Discrimination and prejudice persist, both locally and internationally, making it essential for allies and community members alike to remain steadfast in their advocacy. The event served as both a celebration of identity and an act of resistance against forces that seek to undermine the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The opening of Wellington Pride Parade 2025 was a powerful reminder of the significance of Pride as more than just a parade—it is a statement of existence, a call for action, and a moment to honour those who have paved the way.

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.

Ard van der Vorst Jack Rainey Nate Rowe Ngā Uri o Whiti Te Rā Mai Le Moana Trust Sevia Saviour Nua (Saviiey) Tory Whanau Tīwhanawhana

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