In a candid conversation with journalist Benjamin Law, Dennis Altman, a prominent academic and activist, shared his thoughts on Australia’s taxation system, his personal journey through the gay liberation movement, and reflections on life and loss. Altman, 82, is a Member of the Order of Australia and has been a pivotal figure in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. His latest book, Righting My World: Essays from the Last Half-Century, offers a collection of his insights and experiences.
The Silent Era of Sexuality
Growing up in the 1940s and ’50s, Altman described a time when discussions around sex were virtually nonexistent. “There was, essentially, a dead silence around sex,” he recalled. It wasn’t until his university years in Tasmania during the 1960s that he became aware of his own sexuality. “I didn’t know what to do about it,” he admitted, highlighting the lack of resources and community for young gay individuals at the time.
Altman’s journey took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in 1964 for graduate studies. It was in New York City that he first encountered what he describes as the “gay world,” a vibrant community that was absent in his earlier life. Reflecting on the progress made since then, Altman expressed astonishment at the advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, particularly the visibility of trans identities and the legalization of same-sex marriage in many Western countries.
Reflections on Love and Loss
Altman’s personal life has been marked by a long-term relationship with public health researcher Professor Anthony Smith, who passed away in 2012. “I cried every day for a year or so after that,” Altman shared, describing the profound grief he experienced. However, he noted a pivotal moment during the International AIDS Conference in Melbourne in 2014 when his grief began to transform into cherished memories.
“Grief over time becomes something else: it becomes memory,” Altman explained, emphasizing the importance of allowing grief to evolve.
Despite the passage of time, Altman remains closely connected to Smith’s family, maintaining a bond that continues to provide comfort and support.
Australia’s Taxation System: A Personal Perspective
Turning to the topic of finances, Altman offered a critical view of Australia’s taxation system, describing it as “extraordinarily unfair.” Having worked in the university system for many years, he acknowledged the benefits he has received, including a good superannuation and low tax obligations. This financial stability has enabled him to support causes close to his heart, such as aiding refugees and asylum seekers, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community.
“I’m very conscious of this,” Altman stated, recognizing the privilege afforded to him by the current system.
Altman’s spending habits reflect his values, with a preference for experiences over material possessions. He enjoys flying business class on international trips, a luxury he attributes to his age, and indulges in simple pleasures like coffee and books.
Contemplating Mortality
As Altman enters his 80s, thoughts of mortality naturally arise. “Every week, somebody who was in my life for a very long time dies,” he noted, reflecting on the inevitability of aging. His primary concerns revolve around the quality of life in his final years, expressing a desire to avoid prolonged suffering or dementia.
Altman shared a poignant anecdote about one of his cats, who sought out the sun in her final days, as a metaphor for a peaceful end. “Well, I guess if I were about to die, I would cease hearing my dermatologist warn me about the dangers of being in the sun,” he mused, revealing his pragmatic approach to life’s ultimate transition.
Through his reflections, Dennis Altman offers a window into the complexities of a life dedicated to activism, personal growth, and the pursuit of justice. His insights continue to inspire and provoke thought, encouraging others to consider the broader implications of societal systems and personal experiences.
