For those who don’t see marriage equality as a big deal, let me say this: My wedding day was perhaps the happiest day of my life to date. That our parliament would deny the same happiness and recognition to same sex couples at the behest of bigots and church groups (many people fit into both of these groups) is horribly wrong. Marriage equality advocates are to be congratulated for keeping the topic in the news as it is clearly kryptonite to Turnbull, as it continues to headline his hypocrisy and impotence as prime minister.
I was really happy to see both the ACT House of Reps and the Tasmanian Upper House (and if you find you're with a more conservative position than the Tasmanian upper house you should probably re-evaluate it) pass motions supporting marriage equality in the last week. Some people have dismissed these actions as symbolic only, given it is the federal parliament that will determine if there is to be any change to the Marriage Act. If there are going to be publicity campaigns leading up to these plebiscites, symbolism counts. I will be attending the rally against the plebiscite this Saturday, but I am doing so to register my protest, not because I think the Turnbull government (or whoever is pm in the lead up to the next election) will listen to the people on this issue. They have been steadfastly ignoring the electorate for some time now. But at some point the community sentiment is going to become too overwhelming to ignore. By the metrics of political calculations, one person who cares enough to show up at a rally usually represents many more people with similar views who don’t attend. That is why I would still encourage everyone to attend if they are able. It doesn't matter if it doesn't affect you. It matters that you know it is wrong and we would like to live in a just society. If you don't actively and visibly oppose inequality that doesn't affect you, who will stand with you when it is your turn to be unfairly disadvantaged?
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