The times are (largely) a-changin’
The situation regarding Penny Whetton, partner of Dr Janet Rice has left me quite optimistic. Huh, you say? All the vilifying anti-trans language on Andrew Landeryou’s blog and you’re upbeat?
The answer lies in the long-term change. Consider:
1990’s: Julie Peters, Victorian trans advocacy pioneer, (still waiting for that Community Hall of Fame Rainbow Award) stands repeatedly for Parliament. Nearly every sensationalist question in every interview is about transgender issues, not her policies.
July 2003: trans police officer story breaks. Trans community and allies turn back rednecks, barge our way into media and receive an apology from then State Opposition leader Robert Doyle for comparing trans folk to criminals. Story dies within 2 days and trans person goes on to join Victoria Police with great success.
August 2007: Andrew Landeryou breaches his own party’s policy commitments to social justice and diversity by trying to make a beat-up of an opposing candidate’s partner experiencing transgender issues. Response: trans folk and allies squash rednecks within a few hours. Media interviews with candidate focussed 99% on her policies and apart from a newspaper caption, zero sensationalism. Trans partner barely rates a mention.
So it takes time, but the change is evident. And that’s because people of courage, broad-mindedness and principle took a stand. People like Julie Peters, people across the political spectrum and those trans people and friends who have the courage to stand up. Sure, the views on GLBTI issues of Andrew Landeryou, anonymous bloggers, the Exclusive Brethren and a large part of the Federal Liberal and National parties are still there, but they look sillier and more extreme by the minute. If all they have left are a few rude words it means they’re pretty desperate…
…and that if we keep on persisting, we will achieve the justice and equity that is rightfully ours.
For more information contact Sally Goldner on 0407 946 242.
