21/11/2024
Australian gay men's magazine DNA reports that vigilance is essential to ensure that crimes against gay, bi and pansexual men in the country are nipped in the bud. They report "Homophobic violence in Australia is not a thing of the past. Despite progress, recent events show that the danger is still very real. ABC reports that in the last two months, men in Victoria and the ACT have been lured by fake profiles on dating apps and social media, only to be assaulted and robbed. This resurgence of violence is a stark reminder of the past, where gay men were often brutally attacked. There has been a noticeable increase in public displays of homophobia and discrimination. Earlier this year, a planned drag story time event at a Sydney library was canceled due to hateful responses. Sydney’s Oxford Street, a well-known LGBTQIA+ hotspot, has also seen multiple reports of verbal harassment. Researchers suggest that increased visibility of sexually and gender-diverse people in media has triggered negative reactions. University of Newcastle criminology lecturer Justin Ellis points out that these attitudes often spread rapidly through digital platforms. He notes that some people conflate same-sex attraction with child grooming, adding to the confusion and fear. The focus now is on whether investigations will lead to arrests and charges. In the meantime, app users may reconsider how they use dating platforms. The success of the marriage equality campaign in 2017 gave hope that identifying as LGBTQIA+ would become safer. However, Justin Ellis warns that progress is never guaranteed, citing the reversal of protections in the United States. These incidents have left the queer community feeling less safe. The future of LGBTQIA+ rights in Australia depends on continued vigilance and action." DNA Magazine is available in the UK from branches of WH Smiths and can be ordered by most LGBTQIA and progressive bookstores. https://www.dnamagazine.com.au/
