Television producer Ian Johnstone talks about a programme he produced on homosexuality and law reform. The programme was part of the Compass series and broadcast on 27 April 1967. It is probably the first time homosexuality in New Zealand had been discussed in depth on television in this country.
Summary
This abstract summarizes an insightful historical audio recording titled "Ian Johnstone - Compass," which covers a pivotal period in New Zealand broadcasting history, with topics ranging from the 1960s through to the 2020s. The conversation, recorded in Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand, captures an interview conducted by Gareth Watkins with Ian Johnstone about their experiences in the evolution of New Zealand's broadcasting industry and the landmark Compass television series that Johnstone reported for.
Johnstone narrates the transition from New Zealand Broadcasting Service (NZBS) to New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation (NZBC), drawing attention to the enhanced freedom expected as a result. The introduction of television in New Zealand, a time when Johnstone was tasked with reading the news, coalesced with a national readiness for the medium. However, there was a noticeable dearth of New Zealand-focused content in early broadcasts filled with international programming. Addressing this gap, NZBC introduced the Compass series, a current affairs program influenced by BBC's Panorama, focusing on political and social issues pertinent to New Zealand.
The notable aspect of Compass was its pioneering role in television journalism concerning societal issues like homosexual law reform. The show explored the topic at a time when homosexuality was heavily stigmatized and its practice criminally punishable, navigating through a precarious environment with cautious finesse due to governmental funding and the inherent risk of tackling such taboo subjects.
Johnstone's narrative elucidates the logistical challenges and ethical considerations the Compass team faced. The use of discreet filming techniques, voice alterations, and the guarantee of anonymity to protect their subjects were critical in responsibly covering the sensitive issue. The participants demonstrated surprising composure and resilience, and by allowing their stories to be told, they significantly humanized the gay community.
Compass successfully balanced public enlightenment with the cautious avoidance of sensationalism. Post-broadcast, the program was warmly received, gaining positive reviews from publications across the ideological spectrum for its handling of a contentious subject with sensitivity and tact. The influence of the program went beyond recounting the individual experiences of its subjects; it sparked broader public discourse and sowed seeds for legislative progress toward homosexual law reform.
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