Marriage equality advocates have called on Coalition MPs who support marriage equality to follow the lead of outgoing Senator Sue Boyce by pushing for a free vote on the issue.
In her valedictory speech last night Senator Boyce said she believes the Coalition parties will allow a free vote by the end of the year and that marriage equality can pass with cross party support.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“We thank Sue Boyce for being a courageous supporter of marriage equality and for using her final speech to acknowledge the growing support for the reform in Coalition ranks.”
“Sue will go down in history as the first federal Coalition member to vote for recognising same-sex marriages and we look forward to other Coalition members taking their place in history by also voting for the reform.”
“We call on other supporters of marriage equality in the Coalition to step into Senator Boyce’s shoes by taking the lead on the issue and moving the Coalition towards a free vote.”
Mr Croome also saluted outgoing Senator, Louise Pratt, who has also given her valedictory speech to parliament.
“With the departure of Louise Pratt parliament is losing a strong and effective advocate for equality.”
“We wish Louise and her partner, Aram Hosie, well as they build a family together.”
“We remain committed to ensuring children like their’s will grow up in a nation where all loving couples and their families are treated equally.”
For a report on Sue Boyce’s valedictory speech, click here.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 18 June 2014