Carmen Rupe Te Whanganui-a-Tara Traffic Lights Realness

Description

In August 2016, the word first drag queen Carmen Rupe traffic lights on Cuba street were unveiled by the Wellington City Council, featuring Carmen’s distinctive silhouette at four intersections along Cuba Street. This tribute coincided with the 30th anniversary of New Zealand’s Homosexual Law Reform Act. 

Carmen Rupe was a trailblazing transgender woman, entertainer, sex worker, and larger-than-life personality — a celebrated LGBTIQ+ icon whose legacy continues to inspire today. She also became one of Aotearoa’s (and Sydney’s) most visible advocates for HIV education and safe‑sex awareness.

This colourful bloc mount gloss print commemorates them and celebrates vibrant Cuba Street in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.