Meanwhile, Rainbow Community attacked elsewhere
Radio New Zealand
Auckland, February 17, 2018
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is cutting the ribbon at the annual Pride Parade in Auckland.
The Parade starts in Ponsonby Road at 730 pm today (Saturday, February 17, 2018) and this year the theme of peace, love and unity is designed to counter attacks on the rights of LGBTIQ+ people.
Organisers said Donald Trump’s America was winding back the rights of sexual and gender minorities, Chechnya was conducting a vicious programme of murder and repression and the same-sex marriage debate in Australia was ugly.
Hard-Earned Rights
“As last year’s 30th anniversary of homosexual law reform reminded us, human rights – and especially LGBTIQ+ rights – have been hard won, and often against the most virulent opposition,” says the chair of Auckland Pride, Lexie Matheson.
“Sadly, our Rainbow communities are in the firing line again.”
Police have marched in the parade for many years and this year staff of Auckland Transport, a council controlled organisation, will march together.
True diversity
“Our participation in the parade sends out a powerful message that AT is committed to creating a truly diverse and inclusive organisation, supporting its LGBTQIA+ staff and the wider community,” says chief executive Shane Ellison.
“Auckland Transport believes everyone should feel valued, respected, safe and supported, regardless of our differences. This is not only the right thing to do but is also a demonstration of our corporate social responsibility.”
Also, for the first time, early childhood, primary and secondary teachers are marching together.
“What we are doing on Saturday is one of the ways we can make schools safe and affirming environments for children and adults alike,” Auckland teacher Michael Cabral-Tarry said.
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