Fred Nile debated at Sydney University

By Angela Savva

SYDNEY -- More than 100 people attended a debate at Sydney University on May 13 under the title “Mardi Gras -- Triumph or Travesty?”.

State MLC Reverend Fred Nile spoke first, explaining why he regarded the Mardi Gras as a “travesty”. A speaker from the Mardi Gras organising committee had been scheduled to give the opposing view, but had to cancel at the last minute, so the debate was opened to the audience.

Nile said that the Mardi Gras reinforced “the worst stereotypes”, encouraged violence and was perceived by the public as pure entertainment. He objected to the “indecency and obscenity in various parts of the Mardi Gras” and expressed concern that religious figures parodied in the march may be offended.

In response, the necessity for the Mardi Gras and its political origins and nature were stressed by members of the audience.

A young Christian woman proclaimed to much applause that she had marched in the Mardi Gras in an attempt to “reclaim Christianity for solidarity and justice” and was `not represented by Fred Nile”.

Nile claimed that lowering the gay age of consent would encourage paedophilia, but it was pointed out that most paedophilia cases were against girls.

Only one speaker defended Niles views -- a young man who described gay sex as “sinful” and said that he wanted “to help you all” through this “phase”. As he was laughed off, he concluded: “God have mercy on your souls”.

While Nile's views often provoked derisory laughter, the audience appreciated the significance of his being in a position to influence state law with his reactionary views.

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