Equality Tasmania has applauded the Launceston City’s Council’s unanimous decision to work with the local LGBTIQA+ community to foster greater inclusion and equity.
The Council today heard from LGBTIQA+ community members who talked about continued discrimination and the positive role the Council can play in challenging that discrimination. Council then voted unanimously for a motion sponsored by Cr Andrea Dawkins. and seconded by Cr Lindi McMahon, that commits the Council to consult with the LGBTIQA+ community and develop an Action Plan.
In what became quite an emotional meeting, all councillors spoke in support of the motion, some cried and some apologised for the pain and trauma experienced by the LGBTIQA+ community in the past.
Local LGBTIQA+ community member and Equality Tasmania board member, Joseph McLennan, said,
“We welcome the Council’s decision because it will send the message that LGBTIQA+ people are an integral and valued part of the Launceston community.”
“This is a step towards healing for the entire Launceston community from the wounds inflicted by historic LGBTIQA+ discrimination.”
“The decision means the City of Launceston will be a leader on LGBTIQA+ inclusion in Northern Tasmania.”
Local LGBTIQA+ community member and fellow Equality Tasmania board member, Eddie Kidd, said,
“I’m very happy the motion was passed unanimously and so proud of Launceston.”
“It will be immensely beneficial for young LGBTIQA+ people in Launceston and across Northern Tasmania to see the Council stand up and support us.”
“We thank Councillor Dawkins for tabling the motion and we look forward to working with the Council to conduct a consultation and develop an Action Plan.”
Local businessman and LGBTIQA+ community member Brad Cullen was there with his partner Tim. Brad said,
“It was difficult to speak about some of the discrimination I’ve experienced, but clearly our personal stories made a difference to some councillors.”
“I’m really glad Launceston council has taken this important step towards a more inclusive and less discriminatory future.”
Cr Andrea Dawkins said,
“Today we made a step forward toward being a visibly proud, allied council, embracing our diverse community and moving forward together.”
“The sobering stories of the lived experience of those from our community who spoke moved Launceston Councillors to action today.”
A photo of (left to right) Brad, Joseph and Eddie outside the Launceston Town Hall after the motion was passed is attached.
For a copy of this statemenrt on the web, click here
For more information contact Brad Cullen on 0423 530 487, Joseph McLennan on 0451 662 144, Eddie Kidd on 0478 185 067 or Andrea Dawkins on 0438 346 445.
