Human Rights Commission condemns violent attack on Gay Wellingtonians

The Human Rights Commission has condemned a violent attack on staff and patrons at a gay bar in central Wellington last Friday. GayNZ reported that the alleged attackers were abusive and violent when they realised the bar and the people in it were gay.

“New Zealand’s excellent human rights record means little if some New Zealanders are still attacked because of who they are,” says Human Rights Commissioner Richard Tankersley.

“We value our freedom in New Zealand and that includes being able to live our lives free from fear.”

While it’s good that the staff and patrons stood up for themselves, but they shouldn’t have had to in the first place. The Commission is pleased the Police are investigating this complaint as justice needs to be sought for all victims of crime.

“Respect for others is a founding principle of human rights – you don’t pick and choose who deserves dignity and who doesn’t,” said Mr Tankersley.

“I also encourage everyday people to stand up and support others whose rights are being breached. If we all do this, then we will have a nation that’s safer, fairer and more just for all of us.”

ENDS

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