Applause for Tas Gov's human rights and social inclusion initiatives

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on 30.10.08.

"If there had been a charter of rights in Tasmania in the 1990s, our former anti-gay laws could have been judged in a Tasmanian court according to standards set by Tasmanians, rather than by judges on the other side of the world. It's time to bring human rights home."
- TGLRG spokesperson, Rodney Croome

Gay rights advocates have welcomed a State Government commitment to investigate a charter of rights and develop a social inclusion strategy.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said that vulnerable Tasmanians including gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people still suffer prejudice, discrimination and violence.

"Tasmania has come a long way, but still has a long way to go before gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Tasmanians can live their lives free from prejudice and fear", Mr Croome said.

"The Government's announcements today hold out the promise that the worth and dignity of all Tasmanians will be respected, regardless of sexuality or gender identity."

In an address this morning to community sector representatives, Tasmanian Premier, David Bartlett, released a social inclusion consultation paper, and announced that Cabinet will soon debate plans for a state charter of rights.

According to Mr Croome the debate over decriminalising homosexuality in the 1990s, which included a successful appeal to a United Nations' human rights body, is a reminder of why Tasmania needs its own a charter of rights.

"If there had been a charter of rights in Tasmania in the 1990s, our former anti-gay laws could have been judged in a Tasmanian court according to standards set by Tasmanians, rather than by judges on the other side of the world."

"It's time to bring human rights home."

Mr Croome went on to say that social exclusion is a particularly serious problem for younger gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Tasmanians, and those living in rural areas.

"We will be requesting that the Government's social inclusion office consult directly with vulnerable and isolated gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Tasmanians so their experiences of exclusion can shape the final strategy."

For a copy of Premier Bartlett's announcement visit
http://tasmaniantimes.com/index.php?/weblog/article/breaking-the-poverty-cycle/

For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.