Politicians are set to appear on the Big Gay Out mainstage this afternoon, as organisers The Burnett Foundation face growing backlash over their decision to platform political figures on the mainstage.
A 10-minute political panel hosted by drag performer Miss Ribena is scheduled for 2.10pm today, with protests planned from 2pm by community group Rainbow Action Tāmaki.
The decision to include politicians was made by the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa, who had previously shifted their position multiple times on whether elected officials would be permitted to speak on the mainstage. Earlier this year, the foundation confirmed politicians would again be included in the programme.
The announcement was met with predominantly negative responses across the Burnett Foundation’s social media channels, with many commenters questioning whether political figures — particularly those seen as unsupportive of trans rights — should be platformed at a community celebration.
On Friday, comedian Janaye Henry withdrew from her scheduled Big Gay Out performance, citing concerns about the political lineup.
In a three-minute video shared to Instagram, Henry said she had seen a list of politicians due to speak and alleged that one had voted against banning conversion therapy.
“I think it is irresponsible to platform someone who has caused grievous harm to the community on a day that is meant to be about celebration,” she told followers.
Rainbow Action Tāmaki has called for protesters to gather at the mainstage from 2pm, encouraging supporters to “drown out the voices of National, ACT, and NZ First politicians.”
The group, which advocates for access to gender-affirming healthcare, including puberty blockers, has built a significant online following of nearly 2,000 people on Instagram. Its followers include organisations such as Rainbow Youth, Auckland Pride, and the Green Party.
The Burnett Foundation has not publicly responded to Henry’s withdrawal or the planned protest at the time of publication.
The Big Gay Out is being held today at Coyle Park in Auckland; whether the planned protest will disrupt the scheduled panel remains to be seen.
