The Greens welcome Premier’s apology for historical convictions

Greens spokesperson for Sexuality and Gender Identity Alison Xamon has welcomed Premier Mark McGowan’s apology from the Government to men convicted of homosexual offences prior to the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1990.

Xamon said the apology was long overdue and an important step forward.

“The Greens have always stood for equal rights for LGBTI+ people – freedom of sexuality is a fundamental human right,” Xamon said. “This is a move that the Greens have called for, for a long time.

“It’s about time that WA follows the lead of other states in starting the expungement process.”

Xamon said making homosexuality illegal was state sanctioned discrimination, which resulted in deep distress and harm.

She said convictions had affected people’s job prospects, overseas travel and required disclosure over and over again.

“Let’s hope this apology and legislation is a precursor to further removing discrimination against same sex couples,” Xamon said.

“I hope we will take another step towards true equality through a resounding ‘Yes’ result in the Marriage Equality postal survey.

“Acceptance and celebration of people of diverse sexuality are essential for genuine social justice and equality.”

Yesterday Premier Mark McGowan delivered an apology to Western Australia’s LGBT community and their families saying that the previous laws were unjustified and caused unnecessary prejudice within society.

OIP Staff