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Tim Barnett Discusses decriminalization
New Zealand Member of Parliament Tim Barnett made a special US appearance, focusing on his political role impacting human rights and sexual freedom. MP Barnett discussed the need to decriminalize prostitution and safeguard the rights and dignity of sex workers.
Click here for a synopsis of the campaign for prostitution reform.
Click here for detail about how the Prostitution Reform Act changed New Zealnd.
Click here for a PowerPoint presentation about the PRA.
Click here to see pictures of Tim Barnett's visit.
MP Barnett is notable for having authored New Zealand’s Civil Union Act 2005, establishing the institution of Civil Union for same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Previously, he authored the Prostitution Reform Act 2003, decriminalizing prostitution and brothel-keeping for adults in New Zealand.
Openly gay, Barnett was elected as Member of Parliament in 1996 and appointed as the Labor Spokesperson on Human Rights and Urban Affairs from 1996-1999. He was re-elected to Parliament in 1999. In 2002, MP Barnett was appointed to the position of Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister of Justice on human rights issues. In 2005 he was appointed the Senior Government Whip.
Introducing Tim Barnett was San Francisco Supervisor Jake McGoldrick. “It is inspiring to introduce a legislator and leader who has accomplished in his country what we continue to fight for in our state,” said Supervisor McGoldrick. Assemblyman Mark Leno added, “I applaud MP Barnett’s work to build consensus on sensitive political issues in his home country. His successes are an inspiration to all of us who care deeply about human rights and personal freedom.”
This significant event was co-sponsored by Sex Workers Outreach Project USA (SWOP USA), the Commonwealth Club, and The San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community Center (The Center). Robyn Few, Director of SWOP USA, who met MP Barnett while filming a video on the impact of decriminalization of prostitution in New Zealand, said, “Meeting Tim Barnett was a real pleasure, he treated me like a visiting dignitary. The trip was a life changing experience -- in my country, I am a criminal. In New Zealand, I am not.”
Thom Lynch, Executive Director of The Center, said, “We are pleased to host this event, which promises to be engaging, provocative, and informative.The Center is committed to creating an environment where frank communication can thrive, and our community and allies can plan our political future.”John E. Lazar, Chair of the Commonwealth Club’s LGBT Member-Led Forums, adds, "This collaboration between the Commonwealth Club, The Center, and SWOP enriches the Bay Area residents who relish enlightened discourse."
ABOUT THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB
The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum, bringing together its 16,000 members for over 400 annual events on topics ranging across politics, culture, society and the economy. The mission of the Commonwealth Club of California is to be the leading national forum open to all for the impartial discussion of public issues important to the membership, community and nation. Find us on the web at www.commonwealthclub.org.
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