Dean Knight The founder of Wellington’s gay rugby team says All Black Adam Thomson’s support for marriage equality is heartening, especially coming from a place which occupies such a powerful space within New Zealand’s culture and character. Thomson, a 30-year-old Highlanders flanker broke new ground when he tweeted on marriage equality: “This country should be leading the way on civil rights, echoing the deeds of our past,” and “It’s a no brainer for me, should have happened years ago!” Law lecturer and gay rugby player Dean Knight founded former gay Wellington rugby team the Krazy Knights. In June while on sabbatical in London he took part in gay world’s Rugby World Cup equivalent, the Bingham Cup, with the Kings Cross Steelers. He says it’s awesome to have an All Black add his voice in support of marriage equality. “It shows how much widespread support there is amongst Kiwis for Louisa’s Bill. It’s really special to have well-known straight allies – in this case, a Kiwi sports star and role model – being prepared to stand tall in support of equality and fairness for all New Zealanders.” Knight says it’s the message coming from throughout the country, from a wide range of people. “A lot of Kiwis just don’t understand why their gay friends and family aren’t allowed to express their love and commitment, and protect their relationships and families, in the same way that straight people can,” he says. “It just doesn’t make sense and is plainly unfair. Not only is gay marriage not a threat to them, they’re so indignant about the unfairness and discrimination, they’re prepared to throw their weight behind the cause.” Knight says in days gone by the “rugby machine” would have been very reticent about high-profile players speaking out on hot issues. “But Adam Thomson’s backing shows how positive and powerful the message for marriage equality. It’s irresistible and understood by people from all walks of life,” he says. “It also shows how much rugby culture and community has evolved and is now embracing inclusivity.” Knight points out former English player Ben Cohen has been campaigning against bullying and homophobia. He says for former Welsh and Lions star, Gareth Thomas, coming out was huge moment. “And Wallaby skipper, David Pocock, has also been very vocal in his support for marriage equality and against homophobia – even refusing to marry his girlfriend until his gay friends are given the same opportunity to marry,” Knight adds. “But having an All Black, one of our own, backing the cause is superb, especially because rugby occupies such a powerful space within New Zealand’s culture and character. “And personally, as a gay rugby player, it’s very heartening to hear the message of inclusion from the highest level and to know that rugby family also supports gays and their equal treatment. “We know there are other rugby players and athletes, at elite levels and at the grassroots of sport, that feel the same way too. And we look forward to them also voicing their support for marriage equality.” LIVE COVERAGE GayNZ.com Daily News will report live from Wednesday's Marriage Equality street march and throughout the bill's presentation to Parliament, with team coverage from our journalists and photographers along the march route, within the Parliamentary Press Gallery and amongst the bill's supporters in the public gallery.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 24th August 2012 - 11:11am