But, on the other hand, we are disappointed that Suicide Prevention Australia (SPA) appears to specifically exclude intersex people from its suicide prevention program, website and literature. This is mystifying given that the intersex youth suicide rate is reported to be 30% and intersex people continue to suicide throughout our lifetimes, especially if we have been subjected to non-consensual cosmetic surgery and related non-consensual medical treatment or are refused the medical treatment we need and request.
The word ‘intersex’ is mentioned five times in the statement, but only in connection with reports issued by other organizations and experts.
We look forward to hearing from Suicide Prevention Australia shortly. We believe that intersex people should not be excluded from the help we need.
SPA Position Statement: Suicide and self-harm among Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Communities, report, August 2009.
Background:
A founding member of OII Australia grew up in Western Australian rural towns where youth suicide epidemics continue to this day, and has lost many friends to suicide during her childhood and in recent years, especially amongst her intersex friends and other non-standard Australians.
Related News Reports:
- GLHV – Congratulations to Suicide Prevention Australia
- SSO – GLBT suicide goes mainstream
- SX – Calls to improve GLBT suicide response
- YouTube.com – Video of Michael Kirby launching the position statement.
