[Greens-Media] Stand Up Against Homophobia this IDAHO

[Franks, Office]

May 17, 2013

Media Release: Stand Up Against Homophobia this IDAHO

The Liberal Party must commit to a conscience vote on marriage equality as part of a strategy to eliminate homophobia, says Greens Gender & Sexuality spokesperson Tammy Franks.

Today (Friday) is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) and Ms Franks says it is time for both major parties to support a conscience vote on the Greens' Marriage Equality Bill.

"We need a cross-party commitment to ending discrimination that focuses on challenging homophobia and celebrating diversity," Ms Franks said.

"The Liberals have always professed to be a party of conscience.

"Same-sex marriage is a conscience issue and it should be treated accordingly.

"The Government has already committed to a conscience vote and I am calling on Opposition Leader Steven Marshall to do the same this IDAHO day.

"On this day in 1990, the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

"We have come so far, but unjust laws in this state continue to hinder the path to true equality, perpetuating ongoing social stigma against the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community.

"As a result of this homophobia and discrimination, LGBTI young people are more prone to drug abuse, self-harm, and sadly, even suicide.

"This isn't acceptable and we need a cross-party response to eliminate this discrimination."

Media enquiries - Lauren Zwaans on 0457 549 938



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