Category: Opinion
Craig Young shares a personal perspective on poppers and outlines legal challenges to the laws around their sale and use in NZ and abroad. Alkyl and amyl nitrate inhalants—better known as poppers—were a staple of the gay male community in the 1970s and ’80s. I remember using them sparingly in my younger years back in […]
Craig Yong reflects on the treatment gaps facing trans youth with eating disorders, exploring the tragic case of V, systemic healthcare failures, and the role of gender-affirming care in saving lives. Earlier this month (June 16), V, a young trans man and non-binary individual, tragically passed away as a result of their eating disorder. Some critics […]
Destiny Church’s anti-faith protest highlights a deeper contradiction in the Christian Right’s stance on religious freedom in New Zealand, writes Craig Young. The New Zealand Christian Right holds a contradictory stance on religious freedom: they champion it for themselves, yet seem reluctant to extend it to others. Many LGBTQI+ New Zealanders embrace a “live and […]
Craig Young critiques the UK Labour Party’s shift towards Blue Labour and its impact on progressive issues, particularly transgender rights. Is the British Labour Party veering off course? Growing concerns suggest that the influence of the “Blue Labour” faction could alienate progressive voters and core constituencies, particularly over issues such as trans rights and broader […]
Craig Young believes Kirralie Smith’s Low-Key NZ Tour is a sign of the Christian Right’s shrinking influence in New Zealand. Regular readers will be aware that Australian Christian Right figure Kirralie Smith is scheduled to visit Aotearoa later this year as a guest of Family First New Zealand. With the event still two months away, […]
Jennifer Shields gives a personal reflection on the impact trans literature has had on her, highlighting key books from Imogen Binnie, Emily St. James, Casey Plett, and leading Aotearoa writers that continue to shape trans identity and community. During a recent psychology training day, a colleague asked what books people are currently reading to better […]
Albanese won big, Peter Dutton lost his seat, and the Liberal Party elected its first female leader, Sussan Ley. Meanwhile, anti-trans politics flopped, and fringe religious parties were trounced. Craig Young asks what this means for Australia and its favourite neighbour? In just a few short weeks, the Australian political landscape has undergone a significant […]
Craig Young explores the long history of sex scandals in New Zealand politics—from consensual affairs to criminal acts—and asks what the Michael Forbes resignation says about Christopher Luxon’s leadership. The recent resignation of Michael Forbes, deputy chief press secretary to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, following a police investigation, reopens a familiar chapter in politics: the […]