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.
Misschien wilt u ook
-
Protect the Dolls: When Fashion Speaks Louder Than Words
When American designer Conner Ives sent the “Protect The Dolls” T-shirt down the runway at
-
In Greece, Marriage Equality Faces a New Test — and a Small Victory
On 11 April 2025, Greece’s National Commission for Human Rights (ΕΕΔΑ) stepped into an important
-
No Free Trade on Hate: When the US Tells the UK to Drop Queer Protections
While Brussels gets ready to celebrate Pride with open arms, a darker political storm is
-
« MAUVAISES VIES ? » : When uninhibited eroticism comes to LaVallée for the Brussels Pride
At LaVallée, we never do things halfway. To kick off Pride week in Brussels, the
-
Why Are Some Lesbian Women Fighting Against Trans Rights?
A critical look inside our own community In recent years, the LGBTQIA+ community has made