Today, almost twelve months after passing the “Marriage Equality (Same-Sex) Act”, the ACT Government formally called upon the Federal Government to achieve marriage equality.
Australian Marriage Equality deputy director, Ivan Hinton-Teoh, said,
“With today’s motion the Legislative Assembly has shown the important ongoing role that we all play in moving marriage equality forward. We must continue to remind the Federal Government that Coalition MPs should be allowed a free vote on the reform.”
Within the past twelve months since the ACT Bill an additional 22 US States have achieved marriage equality, along with England, Wales and Scotland, some of our closest allies.
Several members of the Legislative Assembly spoke in favour of today’s motion.
Yvette Berry MLA said,
“Marriage equality is one clear way we can show that we value inclusion and respect, making our society stronger.”
Deputy Chief Minister, Andrew Barr, said,
“It’s important to keep this issue on the agenda. It won’t go away until we achieve marriage equality.”
“The ACT Labor Government has reiterated our support for marriage equality and to campaign every day, every week, every month and every year until equality is achieved.”
Highlighting the need for everyone in the community to play a part, while voting against the motion, ACT Leader of the Opposition, Jeremy Hanson, said,
“If people feel strongly about marriage equality, one way or another, they should contact their local member.”
For more information contact Ivan Hinton-Teoh on 0419 124 826.
Author: Ivan Ivan Hinton-Teoh
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 22 October 2014