Gays seek world ban on Air N.Z.

Press, 3 October 1983, Page 8

Gays seek world ban on Air N.Z.

PA Auckland Homosexuals in New Zealand are asking others to avoid flying with Air New Zealand.

They also seek union action against the airline in Los Angeles and London because, they say, they are discriminated against. A gay magazine, “Out,” said the airline was antigay, . and discriminated against homosexuals seeking group travel. The magazine editor, Mr Charles DeWitt, singled out the airline’s chairman, Mr R. A. Owens, for special criticism, saying he had been approached by Miss Patricia Bartlett of the Society for the Promotion of Community Standards. Mr DeWitt said that Mr Owens agreed with Miss Bartlett’s anti-gay sentiments, and had instructed the airline not to involve itself with the gay community. The row stems from promotional brochures on group travel printed a year ago by the airline’s San Francisco office. One brochure was aimed at attracting group travel to New Zealand by parties of homosexuals.

According to the airline, it received complaints from various people about the brochure, and when supplies ran out it decided not to reprint it. The “Auckland Star” believes that one of the strongest complaints came from a doctor concerned about the risk of the disease, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, coming to New Zealand.

The airline said yesterday that it practised no discrimination against homosexuals. It had simply decided not to promote actively travel for them in groups. A public affairs officer, Mr Vern Mitchell, said group travel by homosexuals was being accepted.

Mr DeWitt said he had tried to speak to Mr Owens and to the chief executive, Mr Norman Geary, but was passed on to Mr Mitchell.

“It was clear that the attitude of Mr Mitchell was one of 'we don’t care,’ and it confirmed the attitude taken by Mr Owens,” he said.

Mr Mitchell said he preferred to make no comment on the “Out” article, which

he said was too emotional and inaccurate.

Mr DeWitt said Mr Owens had completely misread the power of Miss Bartlett. “It will be pointed out to the airline that the gay slogan, ‘We are everywhere,’ means that union and labour support wil be asked for in Los Angeles,” Mr DeWitt said. “It would mean a ban on the airline’s planes entering the United States and from landing at Gatwick in the United Kingdom.” Mr DeWitt said the magazine would issue international press releases informing gay people worldwide of the airline’s stance.

Other airlines serving the same points would be asked for their policies on the matter.