A group wearing Man Up T-shirts block Ponsonby Rd, holding up the parade as they performed a haka. Video / Supplied
Police officers are set to be highly visible at this weekend’s big Rainbow Parade in Auckland, as a sunny forecast promises to attract crowds of supporters.
But anyone planning to turn up to protest is being told a simple message: “Don’t come”.
Up to 25,000 people regularly turn out tothe popular Auckland Rainbow Parade, on Ponsonby Rd, being held tomorrow night on what is tipped to be a fine day, according to the weather forecast.
Event manager Shaughan Woodcock said the parade is about inclusivity and a celebration of New Zealand’s rainbow community – acknowledging those with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
Crowds gather to celebrate Auckland's Rainbow Parade last year. Photo / Sylvie Whinray
“It’s a public expression of diversity, unity and support. And if you don’t support any of that kaupapa [philosophy], then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” Woodcock said when asked about potential protesters, as seen at last year’s parade.
“We’re not encroaching on their rights. And we just encourage them not to encroach on our rights.
It was all smiles on Ponsonby Rd at last year's Rainbow Parade. Photo / Sylvie Whinray
“I’m respectful that there is a freedom of speech and that we live in a democracy that supports free speech and protest, but protest needs to be peaceful and not fearful or intimidating.”
At last year’s event, members of Brian Tamaki’s Destiny Church broke through police barricades and blocked a part of Ponsonby Rd – holding up the parade – as they performed a haka.
Destiny Church members disrupt the Rainbow Parade last year. Photo / Morgan Huffman
A group wearing T-shirts with words such as “Man-Up” and “Real Men” turned up to protest at the event. Many of those involved were young men or teenagers.
Police were called on to move the protesters off the road.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown later criticised their actions – particularly as the incident came after an earlier one at a West Auckland library, during which violence broke out when Destiny Church members turned up in protest of a children’s event featuring a drag king.
Brown said at the time that their actions were out of line and unacceptable. He also gave a nod to Auckland’s population of 1.7 million people, who he said are from all walks of life.
“There is absolutely no place for thuggery.”
Senior Sergeant Anthony Turner said authorities had maintained ongoing communication with the event’s organisers in the lead-up to it.
“Our people will be visible and the focus is on ensuring public safety.
“Should any instances of disruption occur on the night, then our staff will deal with that appropriately,” he said.
Woodcock said like all major events, the Rainbow Parade has a robust health and safety plan in place to ensure the safety and protection of all those within the rainbow community, as well as all members of the public there to celebrate.
“It’s fair to say that any focus on protests or talk of protests just simply reminds us why we have this parade.
“It’s about showing support, but also about showing unity. If I can make one person feel safe or happy or that they belong, then I’ve actually done my job.
“There’s a lot of negativity and hatred in the world these days. But there’s also a lot of support and love – and that’s what really shines out from the people coming to the parade.”
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