A week-long celebration of ‘love, acceptance and unity’ will mark the first anniversary of the Cook Islands decriminalising same-sex relations.

In commemoration of the first year of decriminalisation of same-sex relations in the Cook Islands, both Pride Cook Islands Inc and Te Tiare Association LGBTQI+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex) organisations are thrilled to announce that plans are underway to celebrate the historic milestone.

The Crimes (Sexual Offences) Amendment Bill 2023 was passed in Parliament on April 14, 2023, removing discriminatory clauses and therefore allowing for equal rights for LGBTQI+ people.

Among other things, the Bill decriminalises homosexuality which under the Crimes Act 1969 was punishable by up to five years in jail.

In celebration of the event, Pride Cook Islands Inc (PCI) and Te Tiare Association (TTA) launched “Anuanua”, a celebration of pride, love, culture, positivity and unity.

“This past year has been undeniably transformative” said Tatryanna Utanga, president of Te Tiare Association.

“The Cook Islands rainbow community have seen incredible support from within and across the nation.

“Our pillars of society have been nothing short of positive, and this April we will celebrate this milestone together.

“E akaepaepa’anga noku, noou e no tatou - A celebration for me, you and all of us.”

Spanning across a week of inclusive celebrations, Anuanua will be held from April 12 to 20, 2024.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

The grand opening of Anuanua will feature multi-media art displays and locally produced drama exploring life, LGBT Pasifika centered cinema, powerful panel discussions on hard-hitting topics and the glamour and dexterity of the Ms. Thunderhips contestants as well as night of a music gay out.

Karla Eggelton, president of Pride Cook Islands, said: “There is great cause for the Cook Islands to celebrate.”

“We have shown leadership as a nation in ensuring the equity and rights of all people are placed centre stage.

“This is a far cry from what we can see happening in other parts of the region and world.

“International organisations and other countries have applauded the respectful efforts of everyone and are watching closely the next steps we will take to further advance and entrench human rights and gender equity in our society.

“To this end we can expect to see representatives from other nations participating in our Anuanua celebrations and media outlets wanting to cover this programme, marking this event not only a national celebration but one with regional and international impact.”

The weeklong celebration will be a “testament to equal rights for all, the power of change and the beauty of embracing diversity”.

Everyone is invited to join in to celebrate with friends, allies and the Cook Islands Anuanua community as they paint the island with love, laughter and togetherness.