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No, that’s not the name of a new dance album or an inner city fashion store; rather it’s a possible policy for queer organisations.
One of the recurring themes arising from many of the committees, government or otherwise, on which I sit is, “Yes, that’s a great idea, but from where do we get funding for it? Department of Justice? Health? Human Services? Communities?” It seems good ideas can disappear into a bureaucratic black hole simply because we don’t fit neatly into government organisational charts.
Now if we were contemplating ideas for young people it would be a case of going directly to the Office for Youth. Indigenous issues have Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. So even though our needs are equally as important, GLBT people don’t have such a department to coordinate our needs within government.
What do you think? Is asking for a specific department within government (both state and federal) something we need? Or is asking for it the equivalent of believing in Santa Claus — it’s too unrealistic? Please let the VGLRL and/or Southern Star know your thoughts.
I’ll take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy season and a queer new year. Rest up, spend time with those you love and we’ll see you refreshed for the fun of the Midsumma/ Pride March/ Queer Film/ ChillOut season… oh, and a couple of elections later in the year too!
info: Sally Goldner is treasurer of the VGLRL.
