Mandy Tibbey on the Emerging Issue of Transgender Acceptance

Mandy Tibbey, a barrister with a strong background in law and human rights, has recently addressed the critical issue of transgender acceptance in her work. Her insights offer a compelling perspective on the need for understanding, respect, and inclusion.

In her 2024 Sharwood Lecture at Trinity College, Tibbey addressed the emerging need for greater understanding of transgender issues. Referencing the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Hobart's criticism of "radicalised transgender lobby" groups, Tibbey challenged this perspective, arguing that it is natural for transgender people to advocate for their rights. She questioned whether the church is adequately supporting and upholding the dignity of marginalised transgender individuals.

Tibbey challenges the notion that being transgender or seeking gender-affirming care is "not the Christian way." She argues that this thinking is misguided. Referencing the DSM-V-TR, she points out that gender dysphoria is a recognised condition in which individuals experience a profound disconnection from their assigned gender. This disconnection can lead to significant distress, self-hate, frustration, and depression. Medical treatments, including hormone therapy and surgery, can greatly improve the well-being of these individuals, and these decisions are made after long consideration and suffering.

Tibbey draws an analogy to other medical conditions, stating, "If a baby is born with a characteristic that is not common condition, such as having 6 fingers, it may be that sixth digit is surgically removed for the comfort and psychological well-being of the child. Treatment may similarly be required in relation to gender dysphoria, to better align the actual gender of the person with the lived experience of that person." She acknowledges the debate around the age at which such treatments should commence but emphasizes that, conceptually, it should not be viewed differently from other medical interventions.

She reflects on the past, noting that such treatments and surgical possibilities did not exist, and we can only imagine the self-loathing and suffering that transgender people faced. She attributes the humiliation, ridicule, isolation, and shaming experienced by transgender individuals to fear of the unknown and a perception of difference. However, she reminds us that "perfect love casts out fear" and that "we all bleed."

Tibbey emphasizes the importance of respecting the choices people make and according each person respect, warmth, and kindness, as long as those choices are not exploitative. She highlights the alarming statistics showing that transgender people face disproportionately high rates of suicide, self-harm, anxiety, and depression, likely due to the stigma they face. She asserts that we have the ability to reduce this stigma through loving and respectful treatment. "How can we claim to love God whom we have not seen if we do not love the person we do see?" she asks.

Drawing from her legal practice, Tibbey shares her experiences representing transgender individuals who have faced discrimination, causing them great pain. She stresses that such discrimination is unnecessary and that life would be happier for all if we lived with respect and acceptance. She grounds this in the two Great Commandments: to love God and to love one's neighbor as oneself.

Tibbey references the words of Jesus in John 13:34-36: "I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should also love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." She also quotes Galatians 5:22-23, emphasizing the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

She recounts a personal experience of representing a transgender woman in court, where the woman's former male name was called out, causing her extreme distress. Tibbey emphasizes that it is a matter of basic respect and courtesy to call a person by the name they choose.

Tibbey concludes by highlighting the importance of anti-vilification provisions in anti-discrimination law to protect transgender people from abuse. Her insights offer a powerful call for a more compassionate and accepting society.

About Mandy Tibbey: Mandy Tibbey has practiced as a barrister at the NSW Bar since 2004, and prior to that as a solicitor since 1987, with experience in equity, commercial, and administrative law. She is a Part-Time Senior Legal Member with the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, a trained mediator, and a contributing author to legal handbooks. Mandy has been involved with the NSW Bar Association's Human Rights Committee and the Women Barristers Forum, and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Sir Francis Forbes Society for Australian Legal History.

Disclaimer: This photo was created with AI to add a saintly halo to Mandy Tibbey, celebrating her amazing advocacy and impact. The halo is a creative addition and not part of the original image. Thank you, Mandy, for your dedication, compassion, and the positive change you inspire in so many lives. May you continue to be blessed with strength, wisdom, and joy as you shine your light for others.