Mardi Gras 2020: Human Rights Commissioner Marches with Gender Centre Families

Last Saturday night was Mardi Gras Parade, and trans young people and their parents marched to show the world that keeping families together matter. This year the parents reached out to the Human Rights Commissioner Edward Santow and the National Children’s Commissioner Megan Mitchell and invited them to march. Both Edward and Megan said yes. The Gender Centre would like to thank Lisa and the parents of TGD children for the amazing job they did in fund raising and organising  this year’s Mardi Gras Float. Without their amazing commitment none of last Saturday night would have been possible. Polare Newsletter also contacted the human rights commissioner, Edward Santow to find out why he was involved in supporting transgender and gender diverse families and young people this year.

Polare News: Hi Edward, and thanks so much for chatting with us. We’re so excited that you  marched with trans and gender diverse families this year. Could you tell us a bit about the Australian Human Rights Commission and why you marched?

Edward Santow: The Australian Human’s Right Commission is a national independent statutory authority. Our aim is to protect and promote human rights in Australia and internationally.  I marched with trans and gender diverse families this year because I think it’s very important for the Human Rights Commission to understand and show solidarity for TGD families and young people.

Polare News: What’s the Australian Human Right’s position on trans and gender diverse families and young people in Australia? 

Edward Santow: I’ve met with a number of young people and carers and from those conversations it’s apparent that we need to ensure that the rights of TGD families are protected. TGD children and young people are a rich part of our community but are particularly vulnerable to harm. 

Polare News: What the AHRC’s Goals in regard to TGD families? 

Edward Santow: I feel that broadly there two categories of concern. Firstly, TGD kids just need to be supported on their complex journey. We need to hold these families close. We need to make sure that they receive adequate advice on accessing health care that’s inclusive and makes sure that there needs are valued. Our community is still learning how to be inclusive of TGD families, children and young people. Secondly, sometimes concerns are raised by TGD children, young people and their families. Healthcare, discrimination, schooling, or simply being able to live a normal life. We’re always asking ourself how can the AHRC make a difference?

Polare News: Thanks Edward for all you amazing support!