TASMANIANS URGED TO RALLY AROUND LGBTI COMMUNITY AS NEO-NAZIS SPREAD MESSAGES OF HATE
“As Tasmanians, we stand together against hate, homophobia and prejudice.” – Robin Banks.
Spokesperson for Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality Robin Banks said the LGBTI community needed the support of their fellow Tasmanians more than ever following vile signs erected by neo-Nazis at the University of Tasmania.
“The messages contained in these posters are some of the most violent and homophobic we’ve seen. They represent the worst of the worst in Australian society.
“For a young gay or trans person to see messages like this as they walk to classes would be deeply hurtful.
“We urge Tasmanians to show their support for LGBTI friends and family members by voting ‘yes’ for marriage equality and letting them know that they have.”
Ms Banks said she feared the same sex marriage debate and the amount of misinformation being spread had emboldened fringe elements and created a heightened atmosphere of fear within the LGBTI community.
“For many LGBTI people, these signs will be a very painful reminder of times when entrenched homophobia and prejudice has manifested in violence, intimidation and ostracism from their communities.
“We’ve seen a lot less of this in recent years, but many fear the current debate is setting us back in terms of LGBTI acceptance.”
Ms Banks encouraged Tasmanians to reach out to the LGBTI community and offer their support.
“As Tasmanians we stand together against hate, homophobia and prejudice,” she said.
Ms Banks also encouraged LGBTI people who were feeling anxious or vulnerable to seek the support of family and friends. A range of support services are also available. These are listed on the TUME website at https://www.tasunited.org/support-services/
Spokesperson for Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality Robin Banks
