Tasmania court ruling backs women's only museum exhibit

The history of discrimination against people of color, those practicing religions other than Catholicism, the sick, individuals in non-heteronormative relationships, and ultimately those who are not men has persisted for hundreds of years. Over time, various groups have strived to earn respect and recognition, but unfortunately, attacks due to intolerance remain a sad reality. Despite the years passing, the efforts of those fighting discrimination remain invaluable.

At the Australian Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart, the Luxury Ladies' Drawing Room held an exhibition dedicated to the history of misogyny. One aspect of the exhibition was a ban on entry for those who are not women. This approach aimed to confront historical misogyny, which often barred women from many spaces accessible only to men. This policy did not sit well with some men who wanted to view the exhibition, and the matter was taken to court on grounds of discrimination against men.

The Ladies' Drawing Room was closed in May 2024 after a man sued the museum for discrimination. The plaintiff initially won the case, but this did not deter museum staff from advocating for the exhibition. On September 20, 2024, the Supreme Court of Tasmania overturned the previous ruling. Judge Shane Marshall stated that "men could be excluded from the Ladies Lounge because the law allows for discrimination if it promotes 'equal opportunity' for a marginalized group." Marshall also added: "(The Ladies Lounge provides) women with a rare glimpse of what it is like to be advantaged rather than disadvantaged."

Kirsha Kaechele, the artist who created the exhibition, commented on the ruling. Kaechele said in a press statement, "It took 30 seconds for the decision to be delivered - 30 seconds to quash the patriarchy." In an Instagram post, the artist added that the court ruling indicates that "women are better than men." Kaechele also thanked everyone who supported her in the fight for the exhibition.