Sharon Jones

I grew up in Outback QLD, the most Homophobic in Australia, gender queer and confused. I suffered from depression, internalized homophobia, self hatred, suicidal intention, by age 12. To survive I escaped to Tasmania where I have grown to be proud of who I am in this more supportive environment. I work at Working It Out in Tasmania – it’s a gender and sexuality support and education service and I see the problems of inequality on a daily basis. I want to see equality for all regardless of race, religion, sexuality or gender.

Why have you chosen to represent this same-sex law reform campaign?

To bring the law reforms to everyone’s attention.

What sorts of same-sex discrimination have you as / anyone you know experienced?

I hear of the experiences of discrimination every day as part of my work. A common experience is living a lie for years to avoid discrimination and this can cause pain to many many people.

How do you think these reforms will make a difference to your life, or to the lives of those close to you?

These changes will promote equality to all and bring us closer to genuine equity.

Why do you think people should wear these 85 law reforms with pride?

For those who have fought for so and hard for these changes we should celebrate together – all of us.

Why do you think this is a huge step forward for Australia?

Legislative change towards equality in Australia is important to all Australians – it is something to be proud of.

What do you like about your T-Shirt design?

I will wear it with pride.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

This reform means that like straight relationships we can truly share our finances both benefiting from the tax and super changes.