<B><I>Spokesperson for Arc-en-Ciel</I></B>

<B> Is Arc-en-Ciel (Rainbow) satisfied with the response to the march on Saturday in Rose-Hill? </B>

We are totally satisfied. When we read in the press that this march was “a revolution for Mauritius”, as editorialists put it, and that, through our stand, “we are paving the way for abolishing all taboos that are stifling Mauritian society”, I firmly believe that all people present on Saturday can be proud.

<B> What was your main target ? Do you feel you have achieved it ?</B>

No second-class citizens in our country because of their sexual orientation. We wanted to pass on this message and look Mauritian society in the eye and say it is high time for it to be built on the republican values of secularity, respect and humanity. The march achieved its goal but the commitment still has to go on because we can’t change mentalities with a mere march.

<B> How would you answer those who confuse homosexuality and Aids ?</B>

What can you say to disgruntled and reactionary people? For 15 to 20 years we have tried not to put a stigma on a specific group of people and we have been attracting attention to all risky behaviour. Today, statistics show there is less vigilance – this is probably because treatments have been discovered that enable people who are HIV-positive to live longer and have a better quality of life. This applies to both homosexuals and heterosexuals. And some people still come forward to manipulate these facts and say that homosexuals are responsible for an increase in the number of people affected with HIV/Aids. This approach is both stupid and fascinating.

<B> Have you noticed any changes in mentality since the association was set up ?</B>

Rejection often comes from ignorance, this is nothing new. The first ones to say that the earth turns around the sun – and not the other way round – were excommunicated, if not put to death. Hence, there is a need for constant information, explanation, thus restoring some true facts and realities that are still concealed by past prejudices. With the Equal Opportunities Bill, politicians are now showing they are aware of the problem; this shows the authorities’ support and the growing support of Mauritians. Things are moving forward.

<B> Many Mauritians suffer from a lack of open-mindedness. Aren’t you discouraged by such attitudes sometimes ?</B>

Unfortunately, it is true that the debate is too often bypassed by conservatism and considerations that should not have a place in public debates; but Arc-en-Ciel was set up in the context of a discriminating situation. We knew what we would be facing and we are more than ever determined to continue because defending respect, equality and humanity is fair.

<B> What is the next step for Arc-en-Ciel ? </B>

To go further in our commitment with an office, a regular advisory service, the follow-up with the Equal Opportunities Bill and legislation in general ; in a nutshell we will continue to be at the forefront. Making mentalities change is a non-stop fight because rejection is part of human nature. We will continue to contribute at our own level, and with modesty, to building a fairer Mauritius.