As Australia draws closer to the postal survey on marriage equality posters featuring an anti-gay slur have appeared in Melbourne.
The posters, which were shared on Twitter, claim that “92% of children raised by gay parents are abused,” citing other questionable statistics about higher rates of obesity and depression from a study that used a sample of just 20 children of same-sex couples, versus over 12,000 from opposite sex couples.
The image also features two hands holding rainbow collars in front of a crying child, as if to imply gay couples treat children like animals.
Veteran LGBTI rights advocate and just.equal spokesperson Rodney Croome is calling on Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to speak out against the posters.
“The hate displayed in these posters will shock and disgust the overwhelming majority of Australians,” Croome said.
“We call upon Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to condemn this vilification and set out the parameters for respectful debate.”
“We have long warned the Government that a plebiscite or postal vote on marriage equality would amplify extremist and hateful views – yet the Prime Minister assured us of a respectful debate.”
“It is now incumbent on the Prime Minister, who initiated the postal vote campaign, to take responsibility and denounce anti-LGBTI vilification like this poster.”
Croome also pointed out that the government’s own Australian Institute for Family Studies has found children raised by same-sex couples have the same outcomes as other children, contrary to claims made on the posters.
An AIFS document, Same-sex couple families in Australia, reads; “Overall, research evidence indicates that children raised in same-sex parented families do as well emotionally, socially and educationally as other children.”
Victoria’s state government have pledged an additional $500,000 in funding to LGBTI+ mental health services, bringing their total to $1million.
“None of us wanted to see a divisive, non-binding opinion poll – but because it’s happening we will do all we can to support the LGBTI community,” said Victorian Equality Minister Martin Foley.
“This additional funding will ensure no matter where you live – help and support is accessible.”
OIP Staff
NB: The poster is visible here, and through a link earlier in the story, should you wish to view it. OUTinPerth are reluctant to proliferate the image or its message any further at this time.
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QLife: and www.qlife.org.au
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