Hoping for more colour, less gloom

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

by Samantha Holdsworth

In these times of concern and solidarity with the rainbow community in Gisborne, following the protests against the Rainbow Storytime initiative and the vandalism of the rainbow crosswalk, I feel compelled to add my support alongside so many others.

Samantha Holdsworth

While the perspective from Destiny Church does not represent the majority, their claims that such events contribute to the “sexualisation of our children” not only lack a scientific basis but also dangerously misconstrue the values of inclusivity and diversity.

The existence of gender diversity is a well-documented and natural occurrence, observable not only in human societies but across the animal kingdom. Biological studies show that gender and sexual diversity — in the broad sense — are a common and natural part of animal behaviour, with more than 1500 species demonstrating behaviours that reflect nature’s wide range of gender and sexual identities. In other words, diversity in gender and sexuality are a normal part of life’s complexity.

The global scientific and medical consensus, echoed by New Zealand institutions like The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners and The New Zealand Medical Association, clearly emphasise the important role of inclusivity and representation. Exposure to the rainbow spectrum of the human experience from a young age fosters empathy, respect, and understanding — while supporting our children’s psychological development. This stance is supported by a solid base of peer-reviewed scientific research, which indicates that diversity in education is key to cultivating a more accepting and respectful society.

Misconstruing the introduction of children to drag queens’ Rainbow Storytime — a programme that embodies messages of acceptance, inclusion, tolerance, and self-belief — as “sexualisation” represents a profound misunderstanding of these educational efforts.

Inclusive education does not foist an agenda upon our youth but rather opens their eyes to the kaleidoscopic reality of human existence — affirming that differences in identity are not just to be tolerated but celebrated. In a world where LGBTQ+ youth disproportionately face bullying, depression, and worse, such inclusive education is not a luxury but a lifeline.

The misconception that such inclusivity leads to “sexualising our children” overlooks the critical need to support and protect all people as they navigate their identities in an increasingly complex world marked by social media and misinformation. Such claims shift focus from building a respectful community that upholds every member’s dignity and rights, to sowing division and fear.

I urge our community members to stand firm in support of inclusive events and educational initiatives, such as those conducted by our rainbow community. After all, if we all thought, felt, and looked the same — wouldn’t that be incredibly boring?

I certainly hope for a world where our children are taught not fear and suspicion, but curiosity and respect for the diverse mosaic of human experiences.