No Excuses for Inaction: Advocating Against Religious Discrimination in Australia

Rodney Croome is concerned about exemptions in federal law that allow religious discrimination against LGBTI+ people. Photo Credits: Qnews

In recent times, the Australian LGBTI+ community has been facing a significant setback in the fight against discrimination, particularly within faith-based institutions. The issue has gained momentum following the actions and statements of political leaders, prompting concerns and calls to action from advocacy groups like Just.Equal Australia and individuals such as Rodney Croome.

Anthony Albanese, the Prime Minister of Australia, has come under fire for what many perceive as a betrayal of his election promises regarding the protection of LGBTI+  individuals in faith-based schools. Despite Labor's commitment to addressing discrimination within these institutions, Albanese's decision to seek bipartisan support from the Coalition before proceeding has raised doubts about the likelihood of meaningful reform.

The Coalition's historical opposition to outlawing discrimination by faith-based organizations, coupled with Albanese's hesitation to push for change without their support, has left the LGBTI+  community in a precarious position. With the release of the Australian Law Reform Commission report advocating for the end of such discrimination, the urgency for action has only grown.

Rodney Croome, a prominent spokesperson for Just.Equal Australia, has been vocal in condemning the government's inaction and highlighting the detrimental effects of allowing religious organizations to legally discriminate against LGBTQIA+ individuals. Croome's plea for accountability underscores the need for immediate action to address this pressing issue.

The reluctance of political leaders to enact necessary reforms is seen by many as a failure to uphold the rights and dignity of LGBTI+  individuals, particularly within marginalized communities such as Western Sydney. Despite overwhelming public support for ending discrimination in faith-based schools, political maneuvering and fear of electoral repercussions have stymied progress.

However, there is still hope for change. Through concerted efforts from activists, allies, and affected individuals, progress can be made towards achieving equality and justice for the LGBTI+ community in Australia. Writing to federal representatives, sharing personal stories, and amplifying the voices of those affected by discrimination are just some of the actions individuals can take to support the cause.

It is imperative that we hold our leaders accountable and demand action to end discrimination against LGBTI+  individuals in all facets of society, including faith-based institutions. By standing together and advocating for change, we can create a more inclusive and equitable Australia for all.

Let us not falter in our pursuit of justice and equality. Together, we can build a future where every individual is free to live authentically, without fear of discrimination or prejudice, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

I have contacted my local MP today, and I urge you to do the same.

Father God, we stand before you burdened by discrimination against our LGBTI+ siblings. Grant us strength as we advocate for justice and equality. Bless our efforts and those affected by discrimination. Amen.

In Solidarity,

Shane St Reynolds

Enclosed is a draft letter you can send to your MP

Dear [MP's Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you today as a concerned member of your constituency to urgently address an issue that deeply affects the LGBTI+ community in our country – religious discrimination in faith-based institutions.

As you may be aware, recent developments have highlighted the dire need for legislative action to put an end to discrimination against LGBTI+ students and staff in faith-based schools. The release of the Australian Law Reform Commission report recommending the outlawing of such discrimination has brought this issue to the forefront of public discourse.

However, I am gravely concerned by the lack of decisive action from our government in response to these recommendations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's insistence on bipartisan support from the Coalition before proceeding with necessary reforms is deeply troubling. It is disheartening to witness political maneuvering taking precedence over the fundamental rights and dignity of LGBTI+  individuals.

Furthermore, the Coalition's historical opposition to measures aimed at ending discrimination in faith-based institutions only exacerbates the urgency of the situation. Every day that passes without action is another day that LGBTI+  students and staff face the threat of discrimination, exclusion, and harm in educational settings.

As my elected representative, I implore you to take a stand against religious discrimination and advocate for the immediate implementation of reforms to protect LGBTI+  individuals in faith-based schools. It is imperative that our government uphold its duty to ensure equality and fairness for all members of society, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

I urge you to use your voice and influence to push for legislative changes that will put an end to the systemic discrimination faced by LGBTI+  individuals in faith-based institutions. Our community cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful action on this critical issue.

I kindly request a meeting to discuss this matter further and to hear your plan of action in addressing religious discrimination against LGBTI+  individuals. Together, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all Australians.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,