By MEGAN OGLE
A LOCAL advocacy group has praised the new council for taking a stand against homophobia and transphobia.
Deputy Mayor Frank Wilkie says Noosa Council will fly a rainbow flag on 17 May in support of International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT).
“The gesture affirmed council’s objective for an inclusive, tolerant and welcoming community,” Cr Wilkie said.
“Council wants every resident and visitor to enjoy a safe, peaceful experience here in the Noosa Shire.
“Noosa is a place where everyone, regardless of ethnic and cultural differences, age, gender, ability, or sexuality, should feel included and valued. This is a key goal of our Noosa Social Strategy.”
Council’s community services director Alan ‘Fox’ Rogers said research council undertook for the social strategy showed LGBTI people were over-represented among Australians suffering mental health issues and social isolation.
“Raising the rainbow flag – an international symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride and diversity – is a simple gesture but a clear demonstration that this council values diversity and condemns intolerance,” Mr Rogers said.
Local LGBTI advocacy group Sunshine Coast Rainbow Network (SCRN) director Fi Anderson said this act of recognition made a huge difference.
“One of the most powerful ways of changing the toxic culture of homophobia, transphobia and biphobia is through community leadership,” she said.
“We have to make people aware that bigotry has a body count. That’s the message of IDAHOT, too.
“Physical and verbal abuse, rejection by parents and family members, being ostracised by your church, sporting or community groups, being denied the basic right to marry the person you love – all these things lead to alarming rates of suicide attempts, substance abuse and depression within our community. It has to stop.”
“Flying a flag may seem like a small gesture, but it’s hugely symbolic. It’s a step towards recognition, respect and acceptance. That’s what we’re all fighting for. Noosa Council has done a good thing.”
