Flag up for trans-pride

FOR the first time in Ballarat during Transgender Awareness Week, Cafs raised the transgender flag and are encouraging others to do the same.

Running from 13 to 19 November, the aims to acknowledge and celebrate the transgender and gender diverse community.

Cafs employee and advocate for the trans and non-binary communities, Sage Akouri raised the idea of flying the transgender flag to Cafs CEO Wendy Sturgess and said she was excited at the response.

“It was thrilling to see an executive be so supportive immediately and I was so excited to be able to provide Cafs with my flag and have it flying in the Ballarat sky for the first time,” they said.

“To us in the transgender and gender diverse community, flying the flag means finally being seen and recognised and is an opportunity to build awareness and understanding.

“For someone who is TGD seeing that flag in their town, or even a regional town, can be lifesaving.”

For everyone to feel welcome and safe, Ms Sturgess said it’s important for businesses and service providers to make that first step.

“Transgender and gender diverse people often feel judged when accessing facilities, businesses or health services, which can prevent them from receiving the levels of service they deserve,” she said.

“We want to help break down those barriers, and flying the transgender flag is a visible way to show our organisation’s support for this community.

“Whether it’s learning about correct pronouns, displaying messages of support or flying the transgender flag, Cafs would love to see more organisations showing their support … at all times through the year.”

Mx Akouri added, “I hope that many other organisations and businesses follow in Cafs footsteps next year.”