The global LGBTI family has come together in Aotearoa New Zealand this week for the ILGA World Conference: more than 500 persons from almost 100 countries have gathered in Wellington celebrating the past and strategising for the future of this diverse movement.

Hosted by three local organisations – Tīwhanawhana, RainbowYOUTH and Intersex Trust Aotearoa New Zealand – the event marks 40 years since the establishment of The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), the global organisation advancing the human rights of LGBTI persons. 

“This is the first time that ILGA holds its world conference in Oceania,” said André du Plessis, Executive Director of ILGA. “This is an historic occasion for our global family to learn about the unique Pacific perspectives on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and sex characteristics. Many of us come from countries where being who we are puts us at risk, but we feel welcome here, and we are truly grateful to the Host Rōpū and the 100 volunteers who have made this conference possible”.