Standing with the Marginalized: Reflections on Michael Kirby, Trans Rights, and the Call of Progressive Christianity

As followers of Jesus, we are called to stand with the marginalised, to love our neighbors, and to seek justice for all. This calling feels especially urgent in light of recent reflections from former High Court Justice Michael Kirby, who spoke out about the growing attacks on transgender Australians and the ongoing struggle for equality.

Kirby, a trailblazer for LGBT+ rights in Australia, shared his deep concern about the rise in anti-trans rhetoric and the real harm it causes in a recent interview with SBS News Australia. He draws a powerful parallel between the discrimination faced by gay people in Australia before the decriminalisation of homosexuality and the challenges now faced by the transgender community. Kirby reminds us that, not so long ago, being openly gay could end a career or worse. Today, while there has been progress for many in the LGBT+ community, transgender people are “on the front line” of the fight for equality.

Kirby’s words are a sobering reminder that progress is never guaranteed. He notes that anti-trans sentiment is often disguised as concern for fairness in sports or safety in public spaces, but at its core, it is the same old fear of difference. He also points out that these debates are not just abstract—they are about real people, many of whom are suffering in silence.

As Christians, we must ask ourselves: where do we stand when our neighbors are under attack? The Gospel calls us to radical inclusion and compassion. Jesus consistently sided with those who were excluded, misunderstood, or oppressed. He broke down barriers and challenged the religious and social norms of his day.

Kirby’s story is also one of hope. He encourages young people that “things get much better,” and he reminds us that diversity in sexuality and gender is simply part of the human experience. His long partnership with Johan van Vloten is a testament to love’s endurance and the beauty of authentic relationships.

For progressive Christians, this is a moment to reaffirm our commitment to justice and inclusion. We are called to speak out against discrimination, to support our transgender siblings, and to work for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. This means challenging unjust laws, advocating for safe and affirming spaces in our churches and communities, and listening to the voices of those most affected.

Let us remember that the struggle for equality is not over. As Kirby says, “If you don’t like it, you’ve just got to have a lie down, have an aspirin, and you get over it because it’s not going to change—this is part and parcel of our species.” Our faith teaches us that every person is made in the image of God. Let’s live that truth boldly, standing with the marginalised and working for a more just and loving world.

You may also be interested in our story on the insights of Mandy Tibbey, a barrister with a strong background in law and human rights. As discussed in our blog last week, Tibbey addressed the critical issue of transgender acceptance in her 2024 Sharwood Lecture, offering a compelling perspective on the need for understanding, respect, and inclusion within our faith communities and broader society. Her work speaks to the importance of upholding the dignity of marginalised transgender individuals and challenging discriminatory practices,

Please also take the time to review one of my recent publications Revitalizing Christianity: The Theology of Peter Lewis that has received excellent reviews from Kirkus Reviews, with a foreword by The Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG. All proceeds from this book are donated to the Centre for Coins, Culture & Religious History (CCCRH Foundation Trust).

Watch: Michael Kirby on Trans Rights

To hear more directly from Michael Kirby and see the public conversation around these issues, watch this recent TikTok video from SBS News:

@sbsnews_au Australia’s first openly gay High Court justice Michael Kirby says trans people are on "the front line" of the fight for equality in Australia. In an interview with SBS News ahead of International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia on 17 May, Kirby compared the struggles of the transgender community to some of his own as a gay man when homosexuality was still criminalised. Read more @sbsnews_au ♬ original sound - SBS News

Photo: Radical Restraint: Justice Michael Kirby 1998 National Portrait Gallery, Canberra (purchased with funds from the Basil Bressler Bequest 2001)