Statement: Steven Pinker 2026

Humanists Australia's recent decision to not publicise Steven Pinker's 2026 Australian tour has generated commentary. We wish to clarify the reasons for our decision. Humanists Australia values human dignity for all and free enquiry. We recognise a diversity of views among humanists on the biology of sex and gender, some in accord with Pinker's views and some not. Humanists Australia engages in consensus-based decision making that aims to be respectful, rational, and sensitive to the experiences of all participants.

In deciding not to publicise Pinker's 2026 tour, Humanists Australia is respecting that diversity while advocating no position either way on the biology of sex and gender. Despite this diversity of views on what science tells us, we are united in affirming the fundamental human rights of all. We encourage respectful and open discussion on the difficult social and ethical questions about access to women's sports, eligibility as rape counsellor, admission to female prisons and women's shelters and other vexed moral challenges. Humanists Australia stands with transgender people everywhere while working through these difficult issues in an open and respectful manner.