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Auckland Council and police are publicly condemning a loud protest by Destiny Church members against a Pride event staged at a public library on Saturday.
Acting Waitematā District Commander, Inspector Simon Walker, says police “strongly condemn” the actions of a group protesting a children’s event at Te Atatū Library and confirms officers are investigating allegations of assault.
“The event was being run as part of the city’s Pride festival but was cancelled after about 50 people entered the building and refused to leave.
“The group’s actions caused considerable distress and concern among tamariki, library staff and visitors. This protest crossed a line.
“Freedom of speech and the right to protest are fundamental principles of a free and democratic society under the rule of law, but nobody, especially children, should ever be made to feel unsafe.”
Walker says he’s proud of the frontline police staff, who “responded with haste and professionalism, resolving a dynamic and emotive situation as safely and as quickly as possible”.
“I also want to acknowledge the staff at the library who did their utmost to de-escalate the situation and keep their visitors safe.
“Police were made aware of allegations of assault during this incident.
“No arrests have been made, but enquiries are in the early stages.
“Police and Auckland Council have worked closely around the Pride celebrations, and this work will continue.
“We live in a diverse city in a diverse country, and that is worth celebrating.”
The protest has also drawn a strong response from council chief executive Phil Wilson, who says people were attacked at the protest “verbally and physically”.
“Children, young people and their families were caught up in a violent and ugly situation that was outrageous and unacceptable.
“As an organisation, we respect people’s right to free speech, protest and freedom of expression.
“Our libraries lead the charge on this. But when it turns violent and aggressive, when shouting drowns out other voices, and when people get hurt … it has gone too far.”
Wilson asks what sort of community is being built if people are not celebrating difference, championing tolerance and valuing social cohesion.
“With one in 20 adults belonging to Aotearoa New Zealand’s LGBTTQIAP+ population, councils play an incredibly important part in setting the tone for inclusion for our Rainbow community.
“Throughout Pride Month there will be many fantastic events for all to enjoy, but it is also a reminder of the things we do every day to encourage and enable social cohesion, provide safe spaces for people to connect and deliver activities that champion learning, tolerance and inclusion.”
Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon has also spoken out against the protest, saying it went “too far”.
