Whakarongo: Pride, ILGA World and beyond

The event titled "Whakarongo: Pride, ILGA World and beyond," recorded on 27th January 2019 in Wellington, New Zealand, was a gathering that provided a platform for community dialogue following the controversy around the participation of police in uniform at the Auckland Pride parade. The hosts, Tīwhanawhana Trust, organized this hui (meeting) at Wellington City Library, which offered an opportunity for members of the rainbow community to engage in face-to-face discussion concerning various issues triggering division within the community. The event was notably significant as it sought to ground online debates in a setting that promoted direct, respectful conversation, emphasizing the importance of feeling seen and heard by one another.

During the discussions, participants delved into themes surrounding what pride signifies in the contemporary context, whether it should continue as a protest or evolve into a celebration, and how to maintain unified community actions while acknowledging the diversity of opinions. The talks highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces where issues such as trauma, community safety, and the process of healing could be openly addressed. Notably, the event underscored an urgent need to find a consensus or at least mutual understanding on how to balance inclusive practices with the desire to foster a cohesive and supportive community environment.

Specific attention was focused on the complexities of the relationship between the rainbow community and the New Zealand Police, with individuals sharing personal experiences of police violence and discussing the impact of police presence in pride parades. Additionally, the conversation extended to address broader topics such as the role of activism, the recognition of various identity groups within the rainbow community, and how these factors influence the way individuals and groups affiliate with the larger social movement.

Overall, the gathering evidenced a strong desire among participants to have more of such intergenerational and intersectional conversations, marking a departure from adversarial debates that often occur online. Individuals stressed the value of holding these community hui to further discuss pressing issues within the rainbow community in a manner that fosters respect, understanding, and solidarity.

The recording, which featured interviews and speeches by various community representatives, did not capture the entire event to ensure an environment where attendees felt free to express themselves without restraint. Nevertheless, it provided a snapshot of the communal effort to engage in meaningful dialogue, reflect on the history and progression of pride, and examine the ways the community can move forward together. Attendees left with the goal of strengthening community relations and deepening their understanding of one another, demonstrating a collective commitment to shaping a world where diverse members of the rainbow community feel valued, supported, and heard.

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.

Adrienne Girling Elizabeth Kerekere Jesse Porter Kassie Hartendorp Kay'la Riarn Kevin Haunui Laura Drew Mani Bruce Mitchell Richard Tankersley Tīwhanawhana

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