The Greens have sent a telegram of support to the Feast Festival’s
‘wedding of the year’, a mass celebration and recognition of same-sex
couples’ love and commitment at Montefiore Hill this afternoon,
renewing the Greens’ call to end discrimination against same-sex
attracted people.

“It is time for true equality for same-sex couples, and this means
removing all discriminatory laws, from superannuation right through to
marriage,” Greens Senate candidate for South Australia Sarah
Hanson-Young said at the wedding.

“I challenge the major parties to adopt a policy for true sexual equality.

“This wedding is a wonderful way for same-sex couples, their loved
ones, friends and supporters to stand up in the name of equal rights
for our gay and lesbian communities, allowing them the same rights that
many other adults are free to enjoy.

Ms Hanson-Young said the Greens’ history of advocating for the right
of GLBTI communities to be free of discrimination and homophobic
violence sent an important message to the other parties, as well as to
those who object to equal rights in the broader society.

“It is disappointing that in 2007, neither of the major political parties support the rights of marriage for same-sex couples.

“The ban on same-sex marriage is inherently homophobic and a clear form of discrimination.

“Unlike Labor, the Liberals and Family First, the Greens believe
that all people should be treated equally before the law, regardless of
their sexuality, and that includes marriage.

“Australia has always prided itself on treating people fairly and
equally. It’s time we made this a reality for all people, regardless of
the gender of the person they love.

“I wish the couples who have celebrated their love today every
happiness, and hope that they will be able to legally wed in this
country in the near future,” concluded Ms Hanson-Young.