Homophobia Hypocrisy

Yesterday a seminar was held at Mansfield Town Hall, led by Sue Hackney of rural gay youth outreach program Way Out.
The seminar was supported by shire mayor Marg Attley. She said it took a whole community working together to change and stop nurturing homophobic attitudes. Great words. However, she has not lifted a finger to help the most visible victim of homophobia in her town, Ken Campagnolo.
When confronted by questioners she could not explain why the council had made no efforts to help Ken in his struggle with the DSE and the Bonnie Doon football club.
When reporters from the paper later attempted to question her on the issue they were told she had gone to Melbourne for three days - although it is reported that she was in the next room at the time, and could be glimpsed through a glass door.
Efforts to combat homophobia in rural areas and save young people from isolation and self-harm will founder unless local community organisations such as the football and netball clubs are front and centre in the effort.
Instead Ken, who trained many young footballers over the years, continues to suffer without any support from the local politicians who pay lip service to the notion of combatting prejudice.

Quick update

I will make a more detailed post later, but it appears matters are finally moving in Ken Campagnolo's fight.
At a recent VEOHRC hearing the Bonnie Doon Football Club (BDFC) were not prepared to make a public apology to Ken for the hurt and harm caused as a result of their sacking him as a trainer.
But at the direction of the commission, the RJM Trust is now working on a draft public apology for the BDFC, VCFL, VFL and AFL to sign. This will form the basis of further negotiations.
Ken is not seeking compensation, only the restoration of his good name and reputation, and reinstatement at the club in his former position.
The Mansfield Courier has today published a full account of his case, and tomorrow Sue Hackney of rural gay youth outreach group Way Out will hold a two hour information session on the impact of homophobia at Mansfield Town Hall, supported by the Mayor.