Many intersex traits are genetic, with an identified origin. The elimination of such traits from the gene pool is an established and growing phenomenon.
We all have a right to bodily integrity, to not be subjected to invasive or irreversible medical procedures that modify sex characteristics, unless necessary to avoid serious, urgent and irreparable harm.
In November 2018, we made a brief submission to the Social Policy Scrutiny Committee, Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory regarding reform of birth registration. Our submission was made in line with the Darlington Statement.
On the 22nd anniversary of a demonstration by 'Hermaphrodites with Attitude' and allies outside a paediatrics conference, from which intersex advocates had been excluded, we mark the day with flag raising, parliamentary meetings, bridge lighting and a call to end forced medical interventions on intersex people.
We know these ideas are not the only representations of what it means to be intersex in gender diverse spaces, and we are glad of the friendship and allyship of so many trans and gender diverse people and organisations - but we have to tackle misconceptions.
We welcome the 61.6% majority 'yes' verdict, and a majority in every State and Territory. OII Australia hopes that Parliament will now legislate to enable every adult couple to marry, irrespective of their sex characteristics.
Despite engagement with the South Australian Law Reform Commission and Parliament, our recommendations have not been followed and we do not welcome or support new arrangements.
We announce publication of a joint consensus statement, the "Darlington Statement", by Australian and Aotearoa/New Zealand intersex organisations and independent advocates, in March 2017. It sets out common priorities and calls to action by the intersex human rights movement in our countries.
The Darlington Statement is a joint consensus statement by Australian and Aotearoa/New Zealand intersex organisations and independent advocates, agreed in March 2017. It sets out the priorities and calls to action by the intersex human rights movement in our countries.
Acknowledgement of Country
Our Australian staff and board live and work on First Nations lands. We recognise that sovereignty over this land was never ceded and that this always was and always will be Aboriginal land. We acknowledge the continued connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to land, waterways and community and pay our respects to all First Nations people.
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InterAction for Health and Human Rights Bundjalung Jagun, PO Box 92, The Channon, New South Wales, 2480, Australia
