Tasmanian LGBTIQ rights campaigner Rodney Croome AM was recognised for his human rights work and his impact on his home state at a graduation ceremony in Hobart this afternoon.
The ceremony was one of 15 in the University of Tasmania’s summer graduation round. During the last two weeks over 5,000 students graduated in Burnie, Launceston and Hobart, the State abuzz with Town and Gown processions.
Mr Croome was presented with an honorary degree – a Doctor of Letters – conferred on him by the University Council.
He grew up on a dairy farm in Tasmania’s North West and studied European History at the University of Tasmania, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1988.
University of Tasmania Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black acknowledged Mr Croome’s contribution to advancing human rights and creating a more inclusive and tolerant society, and his service to the Tasmanian community and the University.
“Thanks to the work of Rodney and many other Tasmanians, the island state has been transformed from having Australia’s worst laws and attitudes on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender human rights to having the best,” Professor Black said.
Mr Croome is perhaps best known for fronting the successful campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania, which until 1 May 1997, was a criminal offence punishable by up to 21 years in jail. He then spent more than a decade of his life fighting for marriage equality for all Australians.
More recently Mr Croome has played a leading role in establishing nation-leading LGBTIQ inclusion initiatives in Tasmanian state schools and in the Tasmania Police Service.
Professor Black said Mr Croome was an example of the impact one person could have on the world and illustrated why graduation ceremonies were events of such joy and promise.
“Rodney followed his path and reshaped the world around him for the better,” Professor Black said.
“In recent days we have celebrated the graduation of 5000 people, all of whom are taking the next steps on their journeys, making an impact in their own ways. How will they change our world?
“We are extremely proud of our graduating students. These graduation ceremonies publicly recognise the hard work our students have put into their learning, which is life-changing – not only for them – but also for our communities.
“By showing commitment to their personal interests and values, our graduates are already making contributions to the world, to and from Tasmania.
“We also sincerely acknowledge their family, friends and the University community who have supported our students on their learning journey.”
