Auckland’s Rainbow Parade faced disruption as members of Destiny Church, led by Brian Tamaki, broke through police barricades on Ponsonby Road. Wearing Man Up T-shirts, the protesters blocked the parade route, performing a haka before standing in front of police officers leading the procession. Attendees responded by cheering to drown out the interruption.
Earlier in the day, violence erupted at a children’s event featuring a drag king at Te Atatū Community Centre. Destiny Church’s Man Up and Legacy groups forced their way inside, pushing past staff. Around 30 toddlers, children, and adults had to be barricaded in a room for safety, leading to the cancellation of a second show.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown condemned the actions, calling them “disgraceful and unacceptable,” emphasizing the city’s commitment to diversity. Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick also criticized the violence, noting the intimidation’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite the disruption, parade-goers remained defiant, continuing the celebration of Auckland’s queer community. Auckland Pride, known for its inclusive events, stands as a vital space for LGBTQ+ visibility and solidarity, highlighting the ongoing need to defend these rights against extremist opposition.
You may also like
-
The Cruise 2027: Ready to Sail into Queer Paradise?
From July 15th to 24th, 2027, The Cruise is back on board the spectacular Celebrity Equinox for
-
Ten Years After the Brussels Attacks, a City – and Its Queer Community – Still Carry the Shock
Ten years after the 22 March 2016 bombings at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek metro station,
-
Brussels Pride: from Gay Pride to Belgian Pride to a city that owns its colors
In 30 years, Brussels has gone from a small “Gay Pride” marched by a few
-
“Out of step, outlawed”: être homosexuel·le au Sénégal en 2026
While Brussels is gearing up for another Pride season, LGBTQI+ people in Senegal are facing
-
Brussels Pride 2026: registrations for Pride Village are open – be part of it!
Brussels Pride is turning 30, the far right is on the rise across Europe, and
