Wednesday, 20 March 2024

Wren Pleasant

Gabrielle DE VIETRI (Richmond) (09:59): I rise to pay tribute to the life of Wren Pleasant. Wren turned up to the rental crisis inquiry last year with blue hair and a razor-sharp tongue. She blew us all away with her confidence and insight. She spoke of a callous housing system that puts landlord profits over people’s needs. She called for a new system where renters would not risk their health and home to have their basic rights met. She ended her submission by saying:

… renters are suffering for the purpose of this investment. this suffering applies to our bodies, through heat, cold and mould, and to our mental health and our lifestyles. we renters are the underclass you’ve created. help us please help us

Earlier this month, after struggling with depression, Wren died. Wren was an academic, a sex worker, an artist, a trans lesbian, a writer and neurodivergent, and whether she knew it or not, she was a brilliant advocate for many. We let Wren down in so many different ways. But if this government followed only Wren’s advice – and I urge them to look at it – that alone would create the safety and securities that all renters deserve. Wren, I am sorry this world has failed you. We have lost a remarkable person.