LGBTQ+ advocates are calling on the Victorian government to increase protection for the queer community after far-right groups’ threats led to the cancellation of five Melbourne drag events in the past six months. These cancellations may serve to embolden anti-LGBTQ+ groups to target other events.
Monash Council’s Decision
Monash council announced on Thursday that it was canceling a drag storytime event at Oakleigh Library in Melbourne due to threats of violence and intimidation against councillors, families attending the event, the performer, and council staff. Monash CEO Andi Diamond stated that although the event aimed to introduce children to diverse role models and promote acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, the council could not guarantee its safety.
Push for Anti-Vilification Laws
The event’s cancellation has intensified pressure on the state government to advance anti-vilification laws, with the Victorian Greens arguing that such changes are necessary to protect the LGBTQ+ community from threats of violence. Sean Mulcahy of the Victorian Pride Lobby said that police, councils, and the state government must do more to protect the queer community from threats and ensure that family-friendly events can proceed.
Advocates’ Concerns and Government Response
LGBTQ+ advocates fear that canceling events may put the community at risk, as it may embolden anti-LGBTQ+ forces to target others. Victorian Greens LGBTIQA+ spokesperson Gabrielle de Vietri accused the state government of falling behind on anti-vilification efforts. In response, Victorian Attorney General Jaclyn Symes and Minister for Equality Harriet Shing reassured that the government is committed to changing the anti-vilification laws and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia
All Melbourne councils have pledged to raise the pride flag on the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia on May 17 to express support for the LGBTQ+ community. Discrimination law expert Liam Elphick emphasized that if the government had acted two years ago when it first committed to changing the law, law enforcement would have more tools to combat hate speech against LGBTQ+ individuals.
