Changing Perspectives

My Dad was raised in the 70’s, when things like section 28 and a negative stigma within the media was rampant. Queer identifying people were criticised for living their authentic self. It is not a surprise that my dad once shared the negative outlook on the LGBTQIA+ community. However this belief has been completely shifted. Through discussion and questionnaires with my dad I have learnt that he is proud to call himself an ally of the community, He has grown and has been able to overlook any negative thoughts that he has once held in his own words. “I think I’m more accepting as I see how happy you are, and you are who you are. It’s no good being someone you are not.” This work is a collaboration between the two of us. The journey of making this project has made our father-son bond even stronger. The process has allowed me to understand the history behind his belief and makes the respect I have him even stronger. He was able to overcome the negative belief that would have been engrained in him from his childhood. I am proud to be able to call him my dad.