Ahead of Wear It Purple Day, Rachel Payne MP used a Member’s Statement in Parliament to reflect on courage and visibility. She also shared a recent story from entertainer Reuben Kaye. This reminded LGBTIQA+ young people that they are loved, valued, seen and supported.
Full Transcript
Rachel PAYNE (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
Tomorrow is Wear It Purple Day, a day to remind LGBTIQA+ young people that they are loved, valued, seen and supported. This year’s theme is ‘Colours of courage’. I want to reflect on a story I heard today from entertainer and queer icon Reuben Kaye. Behind that dazzling smile is real courage. Moreover, Reuben recently shared that a stranger messaged him on social media, threatening to set him on fire if he came to his town.
As public queer people, we know that we have two options in this situation: block and delete or fight. Incredibly, Reuben chose to talk. The conversation ended with the man apologising. Afterwards, he disclosed that his brother was out but not ‘in your face about it’.
In an age of sheer rage, here is an out and proud gay man showing empathy to someone who wanted to harm him. Not every homophobic interaction ends like this. However, I would like to acknowledge the courage it took Reuben to do this and the courage it takes to practise pride every day.
I hope that tomorrow all of you will have the courage to wear purple, talk to others about it, and post it on social media. Do so to let young people, particularly young LGBTIQA+ young people, know that they can be visible with you.
Wearing Purple Together
Rachel’s statement is a timely reminder ahead of Wear It Purple Day of the courage it takes to be visibly and openly yourself. It also reminds us of the everyday power of small acts of support. Whether that’s wearing purple, having a conversation, or simply posting about it, Rachel’s message is that visibility matters. This is especially important for young LGBTIQA+ Victorians who need to know they’re not alone.