Call on anti-bias watchdog to ban election "hate"

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on Monday march 13th, 2006.

Human rights activists are seeking an injunction against election materials they say incite hatred against sexual and gender minorities.

Two complaints will be lodged tomorrow with the Tasmanian Anti-discrimination Commission calling for a stop to ads and flyers which declare that gender reassignment, the recognition of intersex people, and allowing same-sex marriages, will ruin the family and destroy society.

The transgender woman bringing the complaints, Martine Delaney, said "I can't stand back while fear and hatred against some of the most vulnerable people in society is whipped up for petty electoral purposes".

"The already high levels of discrimination, violence and suicide suffered by transgender and intersex people will only be made worse by these hateful materials."

"It's time to re-introduce some respect, tolerance and balance to Australian electoral debate."

Advertisements published in all three Tasmanian daily newspapers on March 1st and 11th declare that gender reassignment for transgender people and recognition of intersex people will "ruin our families and society".

A flyer distributed by the Liberal Party to households across the state declares that "full access to marriage laws for same-sex couples" is a dangerous "socially destructive change".

Ms Delaney said that her complaints are not intended to defend or attack any particular party, and are not an infringement of free speech.

"My first and only concern is fair treatment for all Tasmanians."

"I welcome vigorous debate but not when it descends into hate."

The Anti-discrimination Commissioner has the power to issue an injunction against any material which may be in breach of those sections of the State Anti-discrimination Act which prohibit incitement to hatred.

As well as an injunction on the offending materials, Ms Delaney is seeking a public apology and a financial contribution to Tasmania's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender support services.

For more information contact Martine Delaney on 0417 530 621.