Marriage rights have evolved throughout history—it wasn’t until 1967 that Australian Aboriginals were given citizenship rights that recognised marriage. Today, most of the world is still very behind in awarding this basic human right to same-sex couples. Banning same-sex marriage singles out the gay and lesbian community for exclusive, discriminatory treatment, and consequently, strips it of the rights that other citizens enjoy.
Earlier this year the popular TV show The Simpsons showed its open-minded stance and its views by airing an episode where same-sex marriage was legal. Although a satirical cartoon, I believe it raised youth awareness about the lack of accessibility to marriage for same-sex couples.
There are a number of countries that have taken proactive steps towards same-sex marriages including Belgium, Canada (it recently legalised same-sex marriages), Denmark, the Netherlands (the first country to legalise same-sex marriages), Britain and the US (in California and is constantly holding elections around the country). On the other hand, on 13 August 2004, Australia took a step backwards and passed a bill banning same-sex marriage, institutionalising second-rate citizenship for same-sex couples.
Why should I help?There are a number of reasons why I believe that marriage is something that should be shared by everyone and if you agree with any number of my reasons then you should join the fight for equality in our ‘free’ society.
- Sydney has one of the highest gay and lesbian populations in the world, all of who should have the same rights as the rest of society. Why are Australians saying that it’s alright to be homosexual, promoting clubs and bars and even celebrating a mass parade (Mardi Gras) every year, however drawing a line at marriage?
- Not allowing same-sex marriages but recognising de facto relationships is still discrimination. Discrimination comes in many forms and singling out people because of their sexual orientation and prohibiting them from legally marrying is just another type.
- Marriage is a legal, economic, social and family contract that has evolved over time. It has an ever-changing face. It can adapt. There is nothing in the ‘contract’ that prohibits same-sex couples from enjoying the same benefits. These were just institutionalised in the past. Let’s evolve with the times!
- As a migrant to Australia, I have always believed that we should send a message that we are inclusive and non-discriminatory, that we embrace culture and celebrate difference. Not legalising same-sex marriages contradicts these values.
- I believe that one of the government’s roles is to ensure that all Australians have access to fairness, justice and equality. The government is reinforcing prejudice by not allowing equality and the same rights to all citizens.
- Some people believe that same-sex marriage will be a threat to the institution of marriage. I think of it as reaffirming its importance in our society. Homosexuality is recognised in our society and broadly accepted. It is nothing new and so I refuse to believe that allowing same-sex marriages will affect or change any pattern in Australian society and life.
- Legislating for gay marriage merely recognises the status quo. There are already a lot of same-sex couples in Australians living in committed relationships, and positively contributing to Australian society.
- Gay marriages will not affect religion. Any given faith should, and will, retain the right to decide which couples it will or will not marry in its own religious rites.
- Marriage is not solely about procreation. If that were the case, people who were unable to have children would be refused marriage licenses. People marry for many other reasons such as love, companionship and commitment.
- Those who argue for marriage inequality are denying children the legal protection and economic safety that comes from marriage. All children should be able to enjoy the tangible and intangible benefits that marriage can bring.
- A lot of same-sex parents want what straight parents want—the freedom to marry, so as to provide a stable and committed environment for their family.
- Same-sex marriage will provide access to social benefits—from inheritance, to pensions, to hospital visitation rights.
The issue of same-sex marriage requires a traditional person to question their own values and diverge into deeper understanding about the love and connection between two people, no matter what their sexuality. Advocates of same-sex marriage aren’t asking for religion to be altered. Rather, they are asking that gay and lesbian couples at least have the right to a civil ceremony and thus be recognised, under civil law, as a married couple.
The demand for marriage equality is a question of basic civil rights. The freedom to marry movement takes seriously Australia’s promise to be the lucky country for all its citizens, not just some. Same-sex marriage would reaffirm Australia’s claimed diversity and its promise to be a place where people don't have to hide or give up differences in order to be treated equally.
How do I know this?Bidstrup, S, _Gay Marriage: The Arguments and the Motives
_,
http://www.bidstrup.com/marriage.htm Citizenlink,
http://www.family.org/cforum/ Equal Marriage for Same-sex Couples,
http://www.samesexmarriage.ca/ 
