Page 3492 - Week 11 - Wednesday, 22 October 2014
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
These families, just like each of our own families, contribute equally to our city and their local communities, and the law should show them the same respect by recognising them equally. Even though our legislation was struck down in the courts, it was not an effort made in vain. It will not stop this government advocating against and acting to remove discrimination in all its forms. If we maintain the rage and enthusiasm, we can push for change and we can promote debate to make marriage equality an issue so that it does not just fade away. If we do this, I know we will one day see marriage equality nationally.
This motion today provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the marriage equality cause, to reflect on the ACT government’s achievements in legally recognising civil partnerships, civil unions and same-sex marriages, and to once again build support for marriage equality.
Marriage equality now exists in 17 countries around the world, including New Zealand, the UK, 30 states of the USA and several cities and provinces of Mexico. Recent polls illustrate the majority of Australians support marriage equality, yet our own Prime Minister refuses to allow a conscience vote for coalition representatives. But this should not deter our efforts.
Today we are calling on the commonwealth to remove the discrimination that exists in the definition of “marriage” in the commonwealth Marriage Act and to recognise the right of all committed couples to solemnise their marriage. I remain hopeful that the federal government will show leadership on this issue. I call on all members of the Assembly to show their support for this motion to demonstrate the ACT’s public support for marriage equality and to support the rights of individuals whom they love and whom they can marry.
Marriage equality is an issue that should not come down to the political party you support or technicalities about the separation of powers of governments under our constitutions. There is no reason for delaying reform any longer. We can achieve great things together if we listen to the personal stories of people in our community like Chris and Dylan’s and Jess and Amy’s. If we respect the views of others and their right to be fully respected and recognised in law, we can achieve anything.
Marriage equality is one clear way we can demonstrate our commitment to inclusion and respect for everyone. It would show that we are ready to move beyond discrimination on the basis of sex, relationship status or gender identity. Marriage equality will not weaken the institution of marriage. When everyone has equal legal recognition, it makes our society stronger and more prosperous, and most people recognise that.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge the important work of advocacy groups like Australian Marriage Equality for their input and support of our marriage equality legislation, as well as groups like the LBGTIQ advisory council and A Gender Agenda for maintaining their constant advocacy across Canberra. Their determination and tireless efforts to achieve recognition of not only legal equality but also substantive equality is a critical part of the law reform process and was significant in fostering community
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video