Trans Justice Project march through Geelong CBD
A crowd of about 300 met in Johnstone Park, joining thousands around the country in making a stance against “attacks on trans healthcare” in Queensland.
Geelong
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Hundreds marched through the CBD on Saturday morning demanding trans rights in the wake of “worry” both locally and abroad.
A crowd of about 300 met in Johnstone Park to make a stance against “attacks on trans healthcare” in Queensland.
The rally was part of a broader campaign across over 20 cities and towns across Australia, calling on Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls to reconsider his decision last week to pause the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapies for children with gender dysphoria pending a fresh review of the controversial treatment pathways.
A number of speakers addressed the crowd, including Parker, a 16-year-old who has been taking testosterone for nine months.
“We are all worried,” Parker said.
“But there is a worry I hold, that I know a vast majority of my peers do not suffer from, because nobody should.
“This worry is whether I will continue to have access to health care or not.”
Merrin Wake, a Geelong mother who’s child is transgender, also addressed the crowd.
“I’m not here today as an activist, or a clinician, I’m here as a parent who loves their child more than words can say,” Ms Wake said.
“A parent like any other, who dreams of a future where their child is safe, happy and celebrated for who they are.”
“I love them fiercely in a world that misunderstands and stigmatises gender identity.
“My child has become a target of mockery, harrasment and threats.
Ms Wake said her “child is not a political football”.
“They are not a threat to society, and they are not an ideology,” Ms Wake said.
“Your words and actions have consequences, the words you say, the way you talk.
“Sorry to every trans and diverse kid here, you’re seen, you belong, you’re worthy, and you’re loved.
“To my child, who is not here today because they are exhausted from simply existing in a world that feels so hostile.”
The group the marched down Malop St before turning down Yarra St, walking over “their” pride flag crossing.
The group then walked back to Johnstone Park for more speeches before dispersing.
It comes just days after opposition leader Peter Dutton backed Donald Trumps ban on trans athletes participating in women’s sports, going on to insist there are “two sexes”.
“I think it’s one of those debates that we have to be honest in,” Mr Dutton said.
“It’s not about discriminating against anyone, including young girls.”
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