Gillard cites tradition as justification to discriminate against gay Australians

PM challenged to meet the families that her opposition to equality affects

“If ‘tradition’ was a reason to block equality, Julia Gillard would not have become Prime Minister, her relationship would not be legally recognised and her atheism would count against her.” – Alex Greenwich, National Convener, Australian Marriage Equality

Marriage equality advocates have implored Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, to meet with couples who experience legal inequality and social exclusion because they cannot marry.

The call comes after Ms Gillard re-stated her opposition to same-sex marriage, saying it is because of her “traditional up-bringing” and out of respect for which she believes is Australia’s cultural heritage.

Australian Marriage Equality spokesperson, Alex Greenwich, said Ms Gillard is showing a profound lack of empathy towards the problems faced by the tens of thousands of Australian same-sex couples who want to marry but can’t.

“All we ask of Ms Gillard is that she meets with same-sex couples and their families, and opens her heart and mind to their stories, before making categorical statements that will perpetuate inequity and discrimination”, Mr Greenwich said.

“The majority of Australians who support marriage equality deserve a Prime Minister who governs for the nation, not just for herself.”

“In February Tony Abbott met with people affected by marriage discrimination, and it’s time for Julia Gillard to do the same.”

Mr Greenwich said it is profoundly disappointing that Ms Gillard invokes “tradition” to defend her position when she is an atheist in an unmarried relationship who is Australia’s first female Prime Minister.

“If ‘tradition’ was a reason to block equality, Julia Gillard would not have become Prime Minister, her relationship would not be legally recognised and her atheism would count against her.”

Earlier this month a Nielsen poll found that 57% of Australians support marriage equality, confirming the result of every poll on the issue conducted since 2006: majority support for the issue.

For the full interview from Sky News Australia click here. (Relevant section at 23.21 mins.)

For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.