Prominent party members and leading independents have signed a pledge against anti-transgender election hate on Parliament Lawns in Hobart today.
The pledge is designed to stave off the kind of anti-trans campaigning that dominated the US Presidential election last year.
Today’s signatories included Greens’ Senator, Nick McKim, independent member for Clark, Andrew Wilkie, Labor candidate for Clark, Heidi Heck, and Janet Shelly, Greens’ candidate for Clark.
Bass Liberal member, Bridget Archer, and Labor Senator, Carol Brown, have already signed.
Equality Tasmania President, Dr Ash Russell, said,
“Our elections should be free from hatred, including against trans and gender diverse people.”
“That’s why Equality Tasmania asked the parties and independents contesting the 2025 federal election to sign a pledge against inciting hatred against trans and gender diverse people, and in support of our dignity and equality.”
“Hatred of transgender people was prominent during the 2024 US Presidential election and we don’t want to see that kind of hatred mar Australian elections as well.”
“Trans and gender diverse people already face very high levels of stigma and discrimination, so instead of attacking us, politicians should be looking for ways to include and affirm us.”
“We are pleased that representatives of Green, Labor and Liberal parties, as well as prominent independents, have signed the pledge, and we welcome any other other candidates who wish to sign on.”
