Darwin Australia to host next Asia Pacific Outgames

Darwin will host the 3^rd Asia Pacific Outgames in May 2014.
Source: GayNZ.com


A delegation from the Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association - Asia Pacific (GLISA-AP) visited Darwin in April to view sporting and conference facilities and met with politicians, government officials, tourist operators and members of the local GLBT community.


“We were impressed with the range of first-class facilities on offer in Darwin and the enthusiastic support from across the Darwin community for the hosting of the Games in Darwin,” says President Kevin Haunui. “We are confident that Darwin will produce a successful Outgames and warmly welcome LGBT people to their city.”


With the close proximity to Asia, the GLISA-AP Board is hoping for greater representation of glbt people from Asian countries in Darwin.


“In many countries within our region, glbt people still do not enjoy equal human rights nor acceptance, with many having to live secret lives due to the fear of discrimination, family or societal rejection and the possibility of violence.” said GLISA-AP Host City Liaison, Barry Taylor. “The Outgames provides the opportunity for a celebration of GLBT lives as well as to bring international attention on the human rights issues facing GLBT people within our region.”


Previous Asia Pacific Outgames have been held in Melbourne and Wellington.