Today (9 July 2021) marks the 35 anniversary of the Homosexual Law Reform, which passed it’s final vote in parliament on 9 July 1986 and came into effect on 8 August the same year. It’s a time to remember those involved, celebrate the progress and strive for more.
Every anniversary is a reminder that generations suffered under a draconian law that was repealed in my lifetime. Male homosexual sex became illegal in New Zealand when the country became part of the British Empire in 1840 and adopted English law making male homosexual acts punishable by death. Unbelievable harm was done during this time, not just to those who were punished, but those who lived in fear of the law and public opinion. Even today there are many who live with the scars of this time.
I am eternally grateful for those who fought to make this reform happen, too often at great personal sacrifice. The opposition to this reform was loud, bigoted and nasty. MP Norman Jones who led the opposition to the bill publicly said 'Go back into the sewers where you come from ... as far as I'm concerned you can stay in the gutter.' The AIDs crisis had been poorly managed and was used to scare people, with lies spread to support their bigotry.
I'm endlessly grateful for Dame Fran Wilde who introduced the bill and for every MP who voted for it. I'm not sure I'd be here if they hadn't. We often look back on history as facts that happened, but it took courage to stand up for the rights of others. The bill only passed by five votes and the second part of the bill (removing discrimination on the basis of sexuality) failed. It wasn’t until the Human Rights Act of 1993 that protection was added.
I’m reminded of how far we've come in the past 35 years. Society, legislation, workplaces and politics are changing. I’m delighted to see younger generations able to express themselves, to be themselves.
Progress Pride Flag by Daniel Quasar
But we still have a long way to go. Despite the progress, inequalities still exist especially in health. Stigma and discrimination lead to higher rates of mental health issues and even suicide. And then there are physical illnesses – STIs like syphilis and HIV disproportionately affect rainbow communities. This gap is even more true for our trans whānau who continue to face battles for even the most basic human rights. Bi erasure is still too common and those who are intersex need to be heard. I’m proud that the pride flag has evolved to show the wider spectrum of diverse people who live in our communities.
As we look back on the past, there are many who could learn from these brave souls who put aside personal gain to help others. The fight for equality is not over until we have achieved it for all, equality for some is not true equality.