The Victorian branch of Australia’s Green Party has made a groundbreaking decision to expand its code of conduct, stating that transphobia is no longer acceptable in their party. This decision came in recognition of the increasing vilification of trans and gender diverse people in society, with the aim of ensuring that their party remains a safe and welcoming space for all.
The new clause in the updated policy makes it clear that engaging in transphobia is now a considered breach of the Australian Greens Victoria’s behaviour standards for members. Included in its definition of transphobia is the vilification of trans people, intentionally misgendering people individually or as a group, denying that non-binary genders exist or “promoting the unnecessary prioritisation of sex characteristics above gender”.
Furthermore, the party has stated that “advocating for unnecessary restrictions on transition care” and “asking leading questions that cover for doing one of the above” can also constitute transphobia. This is a significant step towards protecting trans and gender diverse individuals within the party.
The new rules also state that members can face removal if found to be in breach of the party’s code of conduct, which is a move that has been praised by those who advocate for trans rights. However, some senior members have voiced their concerns about the updated definition of transphobia, claiming that it will “split” the party.
Despite the controversy, Greens LGBTQ+ spokesperson Gabrielle de Vietri spoke positively about the improved code of conduct, emphasizing that respectful debate grounded in evidence is crucial to policy development and will always be welcome in the Greens. However, leading questions that are designed to mislead and fearmonger people about complicated issues are not acceptable.
The Greens have seen debate over LGBTQ+ rights cause controversy before, with the election of unionist Linda Gale as convenor being overturned last year after she expressed that the rights of trans women may infringe on the rights of people born female. Ballarat Greens activist Helen Lewers also resigned from the party earlier this month after attending a rally held by British anti-trans pundit Posie Parker.
Despite the criticism, the new clause in the Green Party’s code of conduct is a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and respect for trans and gender diverse people. The response to the improved code of conduct has been mostly positive, with many expressing their support for the party’s efforts. It remains to be seen how the new rules will be enforced and if they will effectively prevent transphobia within the party.