Cook Islands named first Transgender Mayor - Joanne Rongoape Stephens

The Cook Islands have led the charge in the pacific in LGBTQIA+ rights with their decriminalisation same-sex relationships - and now that have named their very first transgender Mayor: Joanne Rongoape Stephens who will be leading the island community of Mauke.

Her election is not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Pacific. Stephens, a dedicated advocate for her community, expressed her gratitude and vision for her tenure.

"In so many years we have come through, and we will just continue, no matter what happens," Stephens told Cook Islands News. "We just keep on keeping on encouraging our youth and our young ones, even our older people, just to do the right thing, and not do all these unnecessary things here."

Her leadership focuses on service, integrity, and fostering a sense of belonging within Mauke. Stephens aims to stimulate economic growth, promote unity, and uphold honesty and peace as core community values.

"I've always believed in honesty and peace, and not only that, our economy on our island in Mauke to grow, and to have a better living for everybody," she explained. "And the love that will flow in all the community, and never forget the Almighty God. Otherwise, it's important in life, really, just to make sure we all do the right thing and be honest and help each other."

In April 2023, the Cook Islands Parliament passed the Crimes (Sexual Offences) Amendment Bill, decriminalizing consensual same-sex relationships. This legislative change repealed sections of the Crimes Act 1969 that had criminalized homosexuality, marking a significant advancement for LGBTQ+ rights in the nation.

Prime Minister Mark Brown emphasized the government's role in protecting individual freedoms. "This change in law comes from the idea that it is not the government's role to interfere in the private lives of individuals when [sexual] activity is consensual and has not caused harm to anyone," Brown told MPs.

The LGBTQIA+ community celebrated this progress. Pride Cook Islands president Karla Eggelton highlighted the societal shift, stating that the new law allows everyone to stand equally. "We can stand, side by side, and hand by hand with our neighbours, with our family, with our friends, to say we are truly being accepted for who we are," Eggelton told RNZ.

The election of Joanne Rongoape Stephens and the decriminalisation of homosexuality reflect the Cook Islands' commitment to human rights and equality. These milestones not only celebrate individual achievements but also signal a broader societal transformation towards inclusivity. As the Cook Islands continue on this progressive path, they set an example for the Pacific region and beyond, demonstrating the power of embracing diversity and fostering unity.

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Thumbnail credit: COOK ISLAND NEWS