A day to remember courageous people

On the 10th international transgender day of action today, Human Rights Commissioner Graeme Innes has encouraged Australians to take time to consider the horrors and difficulties that discrimination can inflict upon people who are gender diverse.

“This is a day on which we need to pause to reflect on the fact that people who are gender diverse, including people who are transgender, experience a great deal of discrimination in our society, Innes said.

It is sobering to think that this day of action was established as a reminder of those who have been killed as a result of anti-gendered hatred or prejudice.

It is a day on which we should resolve to accept difference and begin treating all members of society on an equal basis.”

Over the last 12 months, the Australian Human Rights Commission has been conducting consultations and research that look at issues faced by the gender diverse communities. This research has focussed particularly on the problems caused when identity documents do not reflect the gender in which a person lives.

Gender diverse people face difficulties in relation to using and completing identity and other documentation, accessing health services, general discrimination in day-to-day life and a lack of public education and awareness.

Innes said he will soon be releasing a report which will include recommendations for the achievement of greater consistency in tackling discrimination in this area.

“I call on federal, state and territory governments to implement these recommendations and work to minimise discrimination against people who are gender diverse, he said.

The sad events which this day recognises could be lessened in the future by achieving greater community acceptance and understanding of people who are gender diverse, he added.