This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

In 2017, Half Of Aussie LGBTQ Couples Feel Uncomfortable Holding Hands

#HoldTight this Valentine's Day.

It is perhaps our most basic display of affection yet for many of our community, it is one that draws great discomfort.

In 2017, holding hands remains a daily pressure for LGBTQ couples.

For fear of discrimination, and experiences in violence and abuse, the reality is that many in the community still don't feel safe. Terese Casu

According to new research commissioned by ANZ Bank, members of the Australian LGBTQ community are three times more likely to feel reluctance to hold their partner's hand in public than other Australians.

"This highlights just one of the challenges that many members of the LGBTQ community face in everyday situations," Managing Director and Chair of ANZ's Diversity Council Mark Hand said.

While 94 percent of respondents believed everyone should feel comfortable holding hands in public, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, only 43 percent of LGBTQ Australians reported feeling truly at ease to do so.

This contrasts to 18 percent of the wider public who have felt similar discomfort.

The research was launched on Monday as part of ANZ's #HoldTight campaign. Featuring the above video, that has since clocked up over 1 million Facebook views, #HoldTight is garnering a powerful response.

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.