Community Leaders have reflected on the passing of PFLAG WA co-founder John Pugh and praised his contribution to gay and lesbian law reform in Western Australia alongside the support he offered to thousands of parents.
Brian Greig who was the spokesman for Gay and Lesbian Equality (GALE) in Western Australia in the 1990’s recalled that John and his wife Margaret made an exceptional contribution to the fight for LGBT rights at a time when few people were prepared to make a stand.
“John Pugh and his wife Margaret were almost the only parents with a gay child who were prepared to do media during the ugly law reform campaign of 1989 to decriminalise homosexuality in WA,” recalled Greig.
“It was a rough political period with some extreme homophobia flying around, including from politicians. Both John and Margaret were stoic, resilient, supported by their faith and protective of their children.
“Together, they became the compassionate, articulate, parental face of social change and helped, with PFLAG, to shift the toxic debate back to love and to families. Their advocacy continued for many years afterwards, both through PFLAG and with lobbying MPs to support anti-discrimination laws in the 1990’s.
Brian Greig remembers a meeting with politicians where John didn’t hold back from expressing his thoughts.
“I remember on one occasion when lobbying some Liberal and National MPs with John and Margaret, that John had a few swift and cutting things to say to the face of an MP who said something derisory and stupid in the meeting. Underneath his calm exterior there was fire in the belly and I suspect he didn’t suffer fools gladly. The MP was put back in her box rather quickly.
“In 2011, along with Margaret, John was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his services to social justice organisations and to the Uniting Church, but inherent in this was his LGBTI advocacy. It was the first award of its kind bestowed in WA and overdue recognition of his persistent momentum towards equality and fairness for all families.
“His role in helping shape law reform and changing attitudes should not be underestimated and I will remember him with affection.” Greig said.
Labor Senator Louise Pratt described John Pugh as someone who made a difference in the world.
“He made difference to so many families, both parents and their children.”
Senator Pratt recalled that when the couple were nominated for the Order of Australia medal it was highlighted that FPLAG plays an important role in supporting families. The Senator described both John and his wife Margaret were people who gave tireless support to PFLAG saving many families from dislocation and separation.
PFLAG colleagues John and Pat Wilson said the group were so sad to lose one of their founders, highlighting that John had offered support to thousands of parents over many years. Mr and Mrs Wilson said his wonderful support of the community would be remembered.
John Pugh passed away on Sunday and will be laid to rest at Karrakatta Cemetery this Friday, April 11th at 9:30am.
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