Australian marriage equality advocates have welcomed a statement from federal Finance Minister, Senator Penny Wong, that she and her partner, Sophie Allouache, are expecting a child, and say it highlights how out-of-step the ban on same-sex marriages has become.
Australian Marriage Equality spokesperson, Peter Furness, said,
“We congratulate Penny Wong and Sophie Allouache on their happy news and we wish them well.”
“It’s pleasing state and federal law will recognise them both as parents, but this just highlights how out-of-step the same-sex marriage ban has become by denying their child the option of having married parents.”
“Marriage can benefit children by providing them with a greater sense of security and recognition, and these benefits should be available for all Australian children including those raised by same-sex couples.”
Senator Wong declared her support for marriage equality at the most recent South Australian Labor Party conference in November last year.
The Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, opposes same-sex marriage but according to Mr Furness Senator Wong is working hard within the Labor Party to ensure equality for same-sex couples.
For more on Senator Wong’s announcement see: http://www.theage.com.au/national/penny-wong-and-gay-partner-expecting-baby-20110809-1ijzh.html
For more on the South Australian ALP Conference see: http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/wongs-gay-marriage-push-gathers-pace/story-e6frea83-122596237163
For more information contact Peter Furness on 0425 848 723.