27 January 2010

Chief Human Rights Commissioner Rosslyn Noonan is welcoming the New Zealand Police, the Mangawhai community, local schools, churches and other community organisations sending a strong message that attacks on people because of their sexual orientation will not be tolerated. She is pleased that the New Zealand Police’s Diversity Liaison Officer for the region is involved.

Ms Noonan was speaking about the attacks on Lindsay Curnow and Juliet Leigh’s home and business, which included abusive graffiti and arson.

“It is essential a strong message is given that this sort of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in any community,” says Ms Noonan “This message has to start in our homes and schools, workplaces and places of worship, sports clubs and community organisations.

“No one in New Zealand should have to hide or live in fear of being attacked for who they are. It is particularly disturbing when someone is targetted for their sexual orientation.

“While New Zealand has a generally good human rights record, the incident in Mangawhai shows we still have work to do,” says Ms Noonan.

Sexual orientation and gender identity are covered by international legal standards, which were set out in the Yogyakarta Principles in 2006. The principles recognise sexual orientation as integral to every person’s dignity and humanity, and state that sexual orientation must not be the basis for discrimination or abuse. It places a responsibility on governments to provide education and awareness to ensure these rights are respected.

ENDS