2016-09-30
An anti-marriage equality bumper sticker displayed on traffic control signage at the Perth Royal Show shows how hurtful a plebiscite can be before it has even begun.
“Young LGBTIQ people, some of whom may still be coming to terms with their sexuality, do not need to see hurtful slogans when entering or exiting the Perth Royal show.
“Events like the Royal Show should be a safe space for everyone. For the LGBTIQ community who saw this sign, they’re basically being told ‘you’re not welcome here’.
“This is a disgraceful example of how the plebiscite can be hurtful before it has even begun.
“Advocates for the plebiscite say that debate would be civil, but this is a debate that argues the rights of a marginalised group who are asking for equal rights. Hurtful materials being distributed already removes any argument that a genuine civil debate can occur.
“A plebiscite will hurt LGBTIQ people in WA and Australia wide, it should not go ahead”.