Education in the community and workplace is finally being acknowledged as important. I am a big believer in community education and always obliged when asked to present to community groups. For several years it seemed to be the norm that I was either giving talks, writing resources, or talking with someone about the need for legislative changes both in State and Federal legislation.
Studies have regularly shown that support, recognition, and inclusion of employees with sexual and gender diversity is related to less depression and anxiety. People are taking fewer sick days and promotions are not just going to mainstream employees.
Several years ago, industries such as the building industry or mining, which were once considered taboo by LGBTQIA+ workers, now have inclusive policies and support groups for minorities. To me, this is a huge step forward for us as a nation. Twenty years earlier no one would dare be an out gay man in the workplace, or others be telling people that their child has come out as gay or considering transitioning, but now generally people are accepting of difference.
I believe besides hard work and feeling like I was always in three places at once, my conservative looks helped. It was generally believed when James first came out that only people from a low socio-economic group, with poor parenting skills had lesbian daughters and gay sons. Another belief was that they had been sexually abused or couldn’t get a partner of the opposite sex. And, of course, it was considered a preference, a phase or a fad.
One day I was asked to speak at a Welcome Wagon lunch. This is an organisation that welcomes people to local areas and suburbs. On this day, like most others, l wandered around and talked with those in the audience. I believe this makes me more comfortable and it makes the audience feel like they know me, which is good.
I stood and gave my presentation about young people coming out to family. Generally, many parents have said that telling grandparents will kill them because of their age and weak heart. So, I mentioned this and suggested to them that they ring their grandchildren tonight and tell them that, should they realise they are gender or sexually diverse, to please let them know.
Then funnily, as I was finishing, I asked, “Who is going to ring their grandchildren tonight?” and half of the room put their hands up. I laughed to myself because it seemed like they were hoping to be really cool, supportive grandparents.
Speaking At Enquiries
Over the years I spoke at several government enquiries, on just about every topic. At times, for Federal Enquiries, I travelled to Melbourne, Sydney, or Canberra – wherever they were held. I went to put the parent’s perspective across to the supposed powers that be. And of course, I always made myself available for State Enquiries. I learned if a discussion arose between the panel and those presenting, it was a good opportunity to put additional thoughts forward. And the more I spoke at Enquiries the braver I became.
