Marriage equality advocates believe same-sex couples will be marrying somewhere in Australia by the end of the year, despite the vote against the issue in federal parliament today.
Australian Marriage Equality, national convener, Alex Greenwich, said,
“Even though the House of Representatives has voted down marriage equality 98 to 42, more MPs have chosen the right side of history than ever before and we are confident support will only grow.”
“The reasoned speeches in favour, and the extremist statements against, will help to ensure the next time this issue is voted on there will be far more support for equality.”
“Now the federal parliament has effectively brushed the wishes of a majority of Australians aside, the states and territories will take the lead, making me confident we will see same-sex marriages performed somewhere in Australia by the end of the year.”
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays national spokesperson, Shelley Argent, said,
“Parents with gay and lesbian children know a majority of Australians support our kids being treated equally, and believe it is inevitable our politicians will too.”
“We were particularly pleased that Independent MP Rob Oakeshott voted for the bill demonstrating that regional Australia supports this reform.”
Mr Greenwich and Mrs Argent thanked the hundreds of thousands of Australians who have written to their federal MPs and to parliamentary inquiries in support of marriage equality since the 2010 election put the issue firmly on the political agenda.
“Polls show ever more Australians support marriage equality ever more passionately, which is why this reform is inevitable”, Mr Greenwich said.
“It is heartbreaking that the cards have been stacked against us because of Labor’s refusal to vote as a party and the Coalition’s refusal to allow a conscience vote, but the desire of the majority of Australians to see their gay friends and family members treated with respect and dignity will win out.”
Mr Greenwich said the overseas experience is that marriage equality has been voted down before it has succeeded.
“In New York state marriage equality was voted down twice before it finally succeeded last year, and Australia may follow the same pattern.”
“What we can be sure of is that future generations will judge very harshly those politicians who have been speed bumps on the road to equality.”
For more information contact Alex Greenwich on 0421 316 335.