Transcript
Spokesperson for Tonga Leiti Association, Henry Aho, says the responses from different parties was positive.
"Very positive from the mainstream churches, very positive from government. They're eager to work together and partner up with TLA to see what we can do to move forward. Parliamentarians are happy to work together. They are saying that they are very approachable and that they are open to any of the suggestions we may have."
At the consultation the TLA petitioned for changes to the Criminal Offences Act on two of its sections which criminalise cross-dressing and sodomy. While many of those attending were open to discussion, there was some push back from representatives of the new evangelical churches.
"They still don't think that there is a place for homosexuality here in Tonga. So that was one of the main sort of barriers that we saw during this consultation, was everyone reverting to the bible in mostly every discussion."
However, the President of the Tonga National Council of Churches, which represents the mainstream churches in Tonga, congratulated the TLA on being brave enough to raise discussions with church leaders. Soane Patita Cardinal Mafi challenged members of the mainstream churches to be open to the discussions on how the church can be more inclusive of LGBTI members.
"You know our Lord Himself was mixing around at ease with the so-called sinners or marginalized. You know, I was not projecting therefore that they are sinners. No, I was just saying you know, we have to follow in the footsteps of our Lord."
Cardinal Mafi says more open discussions with the LGBTI would bring a better understanding between their community and the churches.
"Hopefully the more we talk these things out with some encouraging words with one another. But the basic essential thing is to make them feel accepted. They're valued in their dignity. They are persons created by God."
While another consultation is planned for February 2017 in Vava'u, the TLA is preparing to submit a report to cabinet that would call for the Criminal Offences Act to be revised.
