Today is Mardi Gras, the celebration of sexual diversity and I reflected on the struggle that many people have felt growing up trying to fit in. Cultural stereotyping and bias is laid down in childhood as a is a normal part of development, and yet this can become challenged as leaders question this prejudice. In the US, Obama has supported sexual anti-discrimination in the military, civil union of gay marriages and adoption rights for couples regardless of their sexual orientation. Malcolm Turnbull,  Federal Member for Wentworth did a recent survey of 3400 people, 75% were in favour on same sex marriages, 15% of civil union, with only 10% against. We are lucky to live in a time when things are starting to be acknowledged and this information helps to break down prejudice.

Years ago I interviewed Dan Savage who writes ‘Savage Love’, which is an internationally syndicated sex advice column. He talked about depression and suicide of not fitting in and how this effected his life.
I feel that the happier we are with ourselves the less judgmental we are of others and the more we accept and allow for peoples differences. We are very fortunate to live in a time when sexual difference can be respected and an evening put aside every year to enjoy a party and parade, must look around for something sparkly now !

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