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An Insight programme 'A Homosexual Speaks', presented and produced by Ian Fraser.
The proposal for homosexual law reform has been receiving increasing attention. To hear a homosexual perspective, Ian Fraser speaks to 'Gary' about his life. He begins by talking about his childhood, his parents' attitudes, and their reaction to his coming out. His father never came to terms with it, but his mother was more receptive.
He also speaks about his marriage and divorce. He says the marriage was a "misery for all concerned". After getting divorced, he met 'Peter' and they formed a long-lasting, stable relationship.
He says many gay men feel shut out from society, ostracised and regarded as criminals by the law. Peter experienced harassment from his brother, and the stress of the situation drove Gary to voluntarily check himself in to a mental hospital.
There is discussion about discrimination in employment - Gary was asked to leave a school-teaching job when his employers found out he was gay. He goes on to talk about stereotypes of gays, in appearance and behaviour. He also speaks about the pressure to 'not offend people', and to put on a front that is more acceptable to heterosexual society.
Gary talks about gays being blackmailed with the threat of being outed, violence, and harassment. Victims were often too afraid to lay a complaint with Police. He hopes society grows to understand the problems facing homosexuals, and says society cannot afford to continue its current attitudes against them into the next generation.
The interview concludes with Gary stating that he is not immoral - he doesn't feel that he is committing a sin, "I am being my natural self, as God made me".