House of Representatives petition is now live
Heah everyone,
The petition to modify the legislation governing the ABS to legally mandate the collection of LGBTIQA+ data in the census is now accepting signatures. If you are an Australian citizen, please sign it.
The link is https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN4848
I have already signed this petition. Why do I need to sign that one?
I am treating this initiative like a military campaign. Approaching the issue from multiple angles will ensure that it is successful. Furthermore, the petition before the House of Representatives is required by law to be considered before parliament. This change-org petition, whilst a powerful indicator of public sentiment, is not.
Ok, I've signed both. Now what?
This is the important part. I need you to talk to your family, friends, and colleagues; and tell them why this is important to you. Ask them to sign it, and to share it with their networks as well. Your signature is powerful, but your network is stronger. Make it relatable, and those who care about you will stand alongside us.
Do I have to be an Australian citizen to sign?
Yes. The Parliament of Australia is only answerable to the people of Australia, therefore only Australian citizens can sign it. The change-org petition is open to signatures from anywhere, although +98% of the people who have signed are from Australia anyway.
Isn't the ABS considering the inclusion of this data anyway?
They were considering it for the 2021 election as well, but decided to drop it at the last minute because of ministerial pressure. Nothing has changed since then to compel the ABS to include it, so unless something is done there are no guarantees that history won't repeat itself.
Is there anything else I can do?
Yes - contact your local media outlets and tell them that this is important to you. Contact your local MP's. Ask your employer to share it internally. Contact LGBTIQA+ friendly organisations and ask for them to share it. The more people that take ownership of this problem, the greater the chance of success that the necessary changes are made.
As always, thanks for your support and don't forget to stay awesome.
Regards,
Evalyn Venture