Hi Supporters!

I’ve intended to write an update several times in the last two weeks, but I’ve found it difficult.

So many things have happened...from the arrest of the former director of Living Waters, to the ongoing criticisms of proposed legislation coming from conservative groups. It’s been an emotional rollercoaster. Nevertheless, I apologise for not being more consistent with updates.

An overview of the last couple of months:

SOGICE Survivors put together submissions for the Victorian government regarding their proposals. We are continuing to work with other groups to advocate for our recommendations.

Following the Think Tank in the ACT, the ACT LGBTIQ Ministerial Advisory Council have been putting together their recommendations for the Chief Minister.

In January I presented at the Better Together 2020 conference in Melbourne as part of a panel from the National Taskforce on the LGBTQA+ Conversion Movement. Seven survivors spoke about their experiences and answered questions from the audience. It was amazing to have so many different perspectives and experiences represented!

A public hearing was held on Friday February 7th in Queensland. SOGICE Survivors was invited to speak. Disappointingly, I was unable to make the time slot due to my regular work commitments, however two other SOGICE Survivor advocates (who are both incredible survivors) spoke.

Unfortunately there have been some really strong voices against legislative changes in Queensland. As reported by The Australian in this article, “Christian Schools Australia, along with three other Christian schools organisations that represent 80 schools in Queensland, told a parliamentary committee the legislation was “dangerously imprecise” and risks Christian schools being in line for their pastoral case programs.”

This Radio National report came out last week regarding the Queensland legislation and survivor concerns that it doesn’t go far enough. Listening was pretty triggering for me, particularly some of the comments made about survivor testimonies.

I’m not sure how many survivors have to come forward, how many of us need to re-traumatise ourselves by sharing our most painful and intimate experiences with the public, before it is acknowledged that there is no doubt that this is a genuine problem.

The ‘claims’ of survivors are real, raw and painful for us to repeatedly relive in an effort to stop the harm occurring to others.

At times, I have been exhausted. But please know that I’m still fighting, alongside many other survivors, to have our stories acknowledged, believed and acted upon. Please continue to stand with us.

To all of our supporters, particularly those of you in Queensland, please be sharing the news about this in the coming days and weeks. Please let our leaders know that this issue must be acted upon.

All around Australia, Pride parades and LGBTIQA+ festivals are underway. Mardi Gras is about to begin. As we all come together to celebrate, can I ask that you please share this petition with your networks?

We need to keep the fight to end conversion practices on the agenda. Survivors are strong, but with your support I know we can finally be heard. 

Click here to share this petition.

Chris Csabs