Let's Dance: A History of LGBTIQ Staff in the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Let's Dance: A History of LGBTIQ Staff in the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, chronicles the struggles of LGBTQIA+ workers. Former DFAT diplomat Rhonda Piggott, who worked on a range of policy and trade negotiations during postings to Brazil, Switzerland and Belgium, is the author of the book. She interviewed more than 70 people, including former and current diplomats and other DFAT staff from LGBTQIA+. background,

Male homosexual relationships were illegal in Australia until state-by-state decriminalisation started taking place from the 1970s. While LGBTQIA+ people in broader society suffered significant social stigma, workers and diplomats in DFAT were also facing immense pressure while representing Australia. In the 1950s, young staff were investigated by senior colleagues and the precursor of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on suspicion of being homosexual, Ms Piggott recalls in the book. Meanwhile, those with same-sex partners were identified as "confirmed bachelors".  Ms Piggott reveals in the book that DFAT's acceptance of LGBTQIA+ staff only began in the 1970s after social attitudes began changing. However, when she joined DFAT in the 1980s, she said there were still challenges and discrimination.

Published November 2023  Paperback  76 pages