ADVOCATES WELCOME UNANIMOUS TAS PARL MOTION CONDEMNING ORLANDO ATTACK

Tasmanian gay rights advocates have welcomed a Tasmanian Parliament motion extending the state’s condolences to the victims of the Orlando gay night club massacre.

The motion, proposed by Tasmanian Liberal Premier, Will Hodgman, was passed unanimously.

Leaders from all three parties condemned the attack as a hate crime against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community and assured LGBTI Tasmanians of their support.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome said,

“Like LGBTI people across the world, LGBTI Tasmanians are feeling vulnerable and afraid after the Orlando attack.”

“This strong statement from a state leaders condemning hatred and discrimination will go along way to reassuring LGBTI Tasmanians and foster a greater sense of safety and inclusion.”

During debate on the motion, Premier Will Hodgman said

“Make no mistake this was an act of hate against the LGBTI community. I want LGBTI Tasmanians to know that the people of Tasmania want them to feel safe, want them to feel free from discrimination.”

Labor leader, Brian Green, said,

“This was an act of hate against the LGBTI community. It is important to stand against discrimination. That’s why we are advocates for the safe schools program. We must teach our children tolerance, acceptance and inclusion so our community is safe.”

Greens’ leader, Cassy O’Connor, said,

“We extend to every LGBTI Tasmanian our love, and we want to say we are with you. These are members of our community who for centuries have put up with vilification, persecution and fear. More than ever we must say to the LGBTI community that will never stand by in the face of vilification and intolerance.”
Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome