An Australian-first report about the experiences of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people who participate in sport will be launched in Melbourne this Thursday, 20 May.
Event: Launch of the Come Out To Play report
When: Thursday 20 May, 2.30pm to 3.30pm
Where: VicHealth, 15-31 Pelham Street, Carlton, off Rathdowne Street
Despite changes in attitudes over the past decade, this research shows GLBT people still experience significant levels of discrimination and abuse.
The Come Out To Play report was funded by VicHealth, Victoria University and the Asia Pacific Outgames Legacy Fund.
Researchers from the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living at Victoria University, Gay and Lesbian Health Victoria and La Trobe University, surveyed 307 same-sex attracted and transgender Victorians about their experiences with:
- sport and physical participation at school
- playing sports in a team environment
- discrimination in sport
- homophobia in sport (verbal, psychological and physical incidents)
- barriers to sports participation
Speakers at the launch include:
- Todd Harper, chief executive officer, VicHealth
- Dr Caroline Symons, report author and senior lecturer, Victoria University
- Dr Helen Szoke, Commissioner, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.
- Rodney Eade, coach, Western Bulldogs Football Club
Media inquiries:
Jim Buckell, Victoria University: 03 9919 4243 or 0400 465 459
Jane Gardner, VicHealth: 03 9667 1300 or 0435 761 732
Pauline Snell, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission: 0428 998 188
