Gay life in Cook Islands

Why is it that in the Cooks transexuals are accepted but gay guys aren't??? Weird....

What is the basis for your statement. Having traveled extensively in the Cooks, I find that the average Cook Islander is quite accepting of both.

Papa Mike

Gay men are accepted, as are gay women, at least by all but the ultra-conservative church pastors and some very traditional churchgoers.

Everyone knows the gay guys on the island, many have high up govt jobs, good jobs in local businesses, etc. It's only the fire and brimstone preachers that rail against them, but even they will be friendly---and sincerely so--- to them at weddings, barbeques, etc.

But local gays do not show affection in public. If they did, there probably would be a loud reaction to that.

Hello,

The local Lele's are friendly and I actually spoke to one on Raro. She said it is ok to be transgender in the culture but frown on gay men and lesbians. The cook islands are very religious and their laws state Homosexuality is illegal for men not for women.
My partner and I went to Raro with our adopted son for two weeks and had no problems. The place we stayed at in Muri beach was owned by a pentecostal family and I think they were taken back with our family situation! but friendly during our stay
. I think it would be best not to show public affection male or female. I did notice a couple of lesbians on the beach holding hands and I think it is not good idea.The islanders have not come across many gay people visiting so they may be offended with open affection.
We were in the market area speaking with Maria File (Artist) who owns a little breakfast stand (Moma's Kitchen). She is very gay friendly and she will give you the scoop about the Cook Islands.Overall we had the best vacation and going back to Aitutaki this time for 3 weeks.
Now LA has direct flights to the cooks so I am sure the islanders will see many more gay american coming to visit!

I don't think it's a case of not having contact with gay people. The Cooks have been a popular American destination for a long time. ANZ has had LAX-RAR flights for at least 8 years and Aloha Airlines had a Hawaii-Raro flight for a while as well.

It's been my experience that the Cook Islanders are friendly and tolerant of just about everyone. Their social norm encourages modesty and restraint of public affection no matter who you are.