Transgender human rights advocate remembered as 'quiet trailblazer'

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on May 12th 2010.

Tasmanian transgender and gay community leaders have paid tribute to the Tasmanian transgender human rights activist, Roz Houston, who died on Monday in Burnie after a long illness.

Ms Houston was one of the first transgender Tasmanians to speak out against discrimination and prejudice.

She led pioneering efforts to educate police, teachers and community members about gender diversity, helped establish support services for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Tasmanians, and was responsible for a landmark anti-discrimination case that set new standards in anti-discrimination law across the nation.

Ms Houston also worked in community services where her contribution was highly valued.

In recognition of her work, Ms Houston was made Tasmanian Humanitarian of the Year in 2001.

Prominent transgender community spokesperson, Martine Delaney, paid tribute to Ms Houston as a "trailblazer".

"For many transgender Tasmanians, including myself, Roz was our first connection to someone who understood, who let you you know you weren't alone and who felt pride in her difference and identity", Ms Delaney.

"Roz was a trailblazer, quietly changing attitudes and increasing acceptance of transgender Australians."

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said Ms Houston was an inspiring figure and a great Tasmanian.

"Roz's tenacity against immense odds and her quiet dignity in challenging prejudice was an inspiration to all supporters of human rights", Mr Croome.

"Roz had a love of justice and a love of her island home that together mark her as a truly great Tasmanian."

Roz Houston's funeral will be held in Burnie on Friday.

For more information contact Martine Delaney on 0417 530 621 or Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.