Marriage equality

"All animals are equal,

but some animals are more equal than others"

Napoleon's interpretation of the Seven Commandments of Animal-ism could easily be adapted as the rallying cry of those who are opposed to the same-sex marriage bills currently being debated in many countries around the world including here in NZ. 

It seems that wherever you are in the world, one of the most common arguments is that 'the gays' have already got equality and we shouldn't push it any further. By pursuing the right to marry in exactly the same way as our heterosexual compatriots do, we're asking for some sort of 'special treatment'. Really?!? So what in the sweet name of Christ is a Civil Union, if not special treatment? 

In my mind, Civil Unions are the espousal equivalent of the placatory pat on the back. The runner's up prize. It's a gesture that says 'chin up old chap, you'll get there one day the world just isn't quite ready for you yet'; the conciliatory crumb tossed at homos hungry for 'more equality' (!) so they don't revolt. Well, it's just not good enough, NZ. Not by a long chalk. Enough of the Napoleon complex, it's time to get to grips with the real issue here. Under New Zealand law, homosexuals are still being denied equality. And that needs to be changed, and changed soon.

This afternoon, as many of my friends have done already, I signed  an online petition for marriage equality. I'd like to share with you what I wrote, in the hope that it will inspire a few more of you to do the same...


I would ask that all MPs currently undecided about this bill, as well as those who have already made up their minds to ask themselves this: 

By perpetuating a two-tier system, you are enshrining inequality and a sense of inferiority. Regardless of your own personal views, is this really a responsible message to be giving our rangatahi and tamariki? Surely you should be doing everything possible to ensure they grow up in a more tolerant world than the one we grew up in ourselves?

You should also ask yourself what kind of message a 'NO' vote sends out to the other developed nations who look to NZ as a leader in democracy, equality and human rights? I would suggest it would make us look old-fashioned, reactionary and lacking confidence or courage of convictions. 

Personally, I do not believe this should be a debate in the first place. But we live in a democracy, and that is how things must be done. You represent your electorate, but you also shape the future of NZ. So please let it be one that embraces diversity, but gives everyone equal rights and standing. Thank you.

Ya get me?

Anyway, I have absolutely no desire to repeat, re-litigate or re-visit the arguments for the full and immediate adoption of equal marriage rights here. If you still don't know what you think, these links should help you:

• www.marriageequality.co.nz/why-marriage.html
• www.wipeouthomophobia.com/marriageequality.htm