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New Human Rights Commissioner faces scrutiny over old social media posts and allegations

Stephen Rainbow news

Newly appointed Chief Human Rights Commissioner Dr. Stephen Rainbow, has come under scrutiny for past pro-Israel posts on his personal Facebook page and accusations of transphobia during his tenure at Auckland Transport.

Responding to the allegations Rainbow told media his focus in the new role will be on fostering open dialogue around critical human rights issues in New Zealand. He has been cleared of any wrongdoing in a 2021 investigation related to the transphobia allegations and maintains that his views, while personal, will not interfere with his professional responsibilities.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said he had full confidence in Rainbow’s ability to lead the Human Rights Commission, acknowledging that while Rainbow’s past comments may be controversial, they do not disqualify him from the role.

“If we were going to expect every candidate never to have said anything controversial, then that would’ve been a very short list, and so we accept that,” said Goldsmith.

Responding to the transphobia allegations, Rainbow said, “Gay people like me have a wide range of views and opinions, and we do need to be free to express these … even though that was done very clumsily. There is a right for people to express views and opinions, and not to be bullied and harassed as a result.”

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10 COMMENTS

  1. (((Rainbow))) is an assumed name, wonder what the real one is, also I see (((Goldsmith))) supports him, that tells the whole tale.

  2. Dr Rainbow – who is gay – and accused of transphobia – why do I feel this place is becoming more and more like Discworld?

  3. Rainbow is actually just a coincidence with this man lol. He is not a radical woke monster. He is a voice for the majority of New Zealand, and it is great to have an intelligent man behind the wheel of our Human Rights.

    • If he supports Israels’ actions of collective punishment of Palestinians, genocide of the people of Gaza, mass displacement and destruction of homes and infrastructure then he is not fit to speak to human rights

      • If the Palestinians would stop trying to kill Jews and destroy Israel, they wouldn’t have their current problems. They are reaping what they have sown.

      • Regarding the current Gaza conflict, you might want to check your facts. He wasn’t supporting Israel’s actions. He was making an observation regarding the outcome.

        If you wish to criticise someone’s statements, find the error in their logic or facts. If you can’t do that… well, you figure it out.

  4. Human rights? The most neglected voices in this country are those of single parents. This appointment does seem incompatible for some reason.

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