In this podcast Michael Stevens from New Zealand talks about attending the human rights conference.
Summary
In a podcast recorded at the Wellington Town Hall on March 17th, 2011, Michael Stevens, an academic from the University of Auckland, discusses their experience attending a human rights conference. As a sociologist working on their PhD, with a research focus on HIV, gay men, and sexuality, Stevens highlights the intersection of human rights and religion, especially in how different branches of Christianity view sexual minorities.
Stevens observes that while established religion often doesn't support queer rights, smaller religious groups have begun interpreting Christian teachings as a basis to endorse the dignity and rights of sexual minorities. The conversation touches on the social forces driving these changes and the role of public tolerance. They note that New Zealand society is generally liberal, with religion largely considered a private matter, and public tolerance for diversity has increased significantly over the last two decades. Nonetheless, Stevens expresses caution, aware that shifts in social attitudes can lead to unexpected conservative turns.
The significance of the conference for Stevens lies in the ability to connect with others from around the region, sharing stories, and fostering a sense of recognition and solidarity among marginalized groups. They highlight the importance of face-to-face interaction and the shared understanding that arises from collective experiences. Despite the attestment to a prevailing liberal attitude in New Zealand, Stevens remarks on the lack of challenges to their own perspectives within the conference, suggesting a shared consensus among participants.
A standout moment for Stevens was a plenary speech by Marilyn Waring, which resonated due to shared generational experiences and the compelling nature of their presentation. In considering the mood of the conference, they describe it as positive and energizing, yet stress the importance of translating this enthusiasm into sustained action through maintaining networks and momentum post-conference.
Addressing media coverage, Stevens criticizes the mainstream media for nearly ignoring the event, viewing it as a form of oppression through invisibility. Conversely, they praise the gay media's active reporting, especially the quick updates provided by gay and Z media outlets.
When discussing the visibility and anticipation of the conference and Outgames within Auckland's gay circles, Stevens notes that while the latter seemed more prominent, the academic and activist circles were more aware of the human rights conference. They emphasize the remaining challenges within queer cultures in New Zealand, such as complacency, mental health disparities, substance abuse, and suicide rates, and the persistent need for complete equality in terms of human rights.
Lastly, Stevens expresses hope that future generations will inherit a world where sexual minority issues are non-events, and the social disparities they currently face will have been equated to the rest of the population. They yearn for a world not just free of regression but one that has progressed to ensure comfort and acceptance for all.
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