Advocates for marriage equality are disappointed that Prime Minister Julia Gillard continues to deny loving and committed same-sex couples the right to marry.
Speaking on the ABC’s Q&A program last night the Ms Gillard said:
“I think you can have a relationship of love and commitment and trust and understanding that doesn’t need a marriage certificate associated with it… That’s my life experience – so I’m speaking from that life experience.”
Australian Marriage Equality National Convener, Alex Greenwich, said the statement would be viewed as hurtful by many same-sex couples:
“The Prime Minister is able to choose not to marry, however this choice is denied to many same-sex couples who desperately want to celebrate the traditions of marriage and have the legal protection, security and recognition that comes with marriage.”
“The Prime Minister may not want to marry herself, but most Australians value the importance of marriage greatly, and as such want their gay and lesbian friends to have equal access and be treated as equal citizens by the Marriage Act.”
With reference to the New Zealand Prime Minister’s recent support for marriage equality, Mr Greenwich said Ms Gillard’s continued opposition was embarrassing Australia’s reputation internationally:
“Australia is the only developed English-speaking country without a major party leader who supports marriage equality. This concerns Australians as much as it confuses the world.”
For further information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.