The Victorian Government will propose a law to ban the use of Nazi salutes in public. It comes after neo-Nazis attended an anti-trans rally in Melbourne on Saturday.
A Victorian politician who attended the rally is set to be removed from the Liberal party.
Background
An anti-trans rally was held outside Victoria’s Parliament House in Melbourne on Saturday. The rally was led by prominent UK anti-trans activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, also known as Posie Parker, who has previously made videos with neo-Nazi figures.
Several neo-Nazis attended the rally. They wore black shirts and formed a line making a Nazi salute in the direction of LGBTIQ+ community members and allies who were peacefully protesting the rally.
Nazi salute ban
Premier Daniel Andrews tweeted saying the rally attendees were not welcome “on Parliament’s steps [or] anywhere… they were there to say the trans community don’t deserve rights, safety or dignity.”
Victorian Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes announced this morning the Government would seek to ban the public display of Nazi salutes. Victoria already bans the public display of Nazi symbols, becoming the first jurisdiction to do so last year.
Moira deeming
Moira Deeming, a member of the Victorian upper house known for anti-trans views, attended the rally.
Liberal leader John Pesutto announced last night he would seek to expel Deeming from the party.
“The violence, prejudice and hate that these protesters conveyed by their odious actions will never be acceptable in our State,” Pesutto said. “No matter what our background we all share the abiding bond of an essential humanity.”
