Right now there are loving families in our community that can’t be recognised under Australian law. 81% of GLBTI young people surveyed by beyondblue in 2008 have been the victims of verbal or physical abuse because of their sexual orientation. People who want their true gender identity recognised have to undergo expensive and dangerous surgery to get legal recognition. Change needs to happen.
In the lead up to the 2010 Federal election both of Australia’s major political parties are failing to commit to any reform or change on these issues, despite numerous recommendations from the Human Rights Commission. Unless our community is motivated to lobby for change, these fundamental inequalities will be left off the government agenda for another three years. We refuse to let that happen.
Gay & Lesbian Equality (WA) is building a new grassroots campaign in our community. We have worked with some of the top social change organisations in Australia to develop skills and strategies for achieving change in a Federal Election year. Through online lobbying tools, information kits and community lobbying workshops, our campaign aims to build the knowledge, skills and networks needed to make sexuality and gender equality a key topic for this year’s Federal election.
Here are a few things you can do RIGHT NOW to get involved in the movement:
1. Check out the NEW GALE(WA) Campaign Website!
Get informed about the issues, and learn useful techniques for putting pressure on the government about same-sex marriage, anti-discrimination legislation and gender identity recognition.
You can download a copy of the At the Crossroads publication that was launched on June 13 direct from the website.
Check it out at: http://www.galewa.asn.au/
2. Sign up for the GALE(WA) Red Alert list
When something happens which needs a response or engagement from the community, GALE sends out a red alert letting people know how they can contribute. It may be writing a letter to the editor when an offensive article is published, sending an email to a politician when they need to put their vote behind a move for equality, or attending a public event or support.
Sign up for Red Alerts at: http://www.galewa.asn.au/join-red-alert
3. Join the GALE(WA) Committee
Gay & Lesbian Equality is looking for community members to lend their time, passion or skills to the campaign for Full Equality, in the leadup to the Federal Election. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved in a community organisation, campaigning for equality or human rights, this is your chance!
Send us an email at: info@galewa.asn.au
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