Queer activists attacked by police

PERTH — On July 8, a queer-rights action protesting the federal Coalition government's attacks on student and trade unions, and calling on the government to repeal all homophobic laws — in particular the same-sex marriage ban — was brutality attacked by police.

One-hundred-and-fifty student and queer-rights activists joined the rally at the conclusion of the week-long national student Queer Collaborations conference, held at the University of Western Australia.

After hearing from a number of speakers, protesters attempted to march peacefully around the Murray St Mall. With no warning given, police attacked the protesters, throwing four men into the paddy wagon and arresting a woman. Many onlookers were shocked by the violent methods used by the police.

However, the protestors continued to march up the mall, chanting defiantly, "We're queer, we're loud, we're union and we're proud!" They handed out leaflets promoting upcoming events against "voluntary student unionism" legislation and for the repeal of the ban on same-sex marriage.

The five activists are due to appear in Perth Magistrates Court on July 9 at 9.30am. They have been charged with obstruction and disorderly behavior.

Rachel Evans & Brother Steve Spain

From Green Left Weekly, July 13, 2005.

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From GLW issue 633