New push for civil unions bill

New push for civil unions bill

Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon has promised to introduce a civil unions bill and support the Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby’s campaign for adoption equality.

Announcing the NSW Greens strategy for LGBTI campaigns this year, Rhiannon said it was important to maintain the momentum on these issues during the early stage of the election cycle.

“We need a loud voice so we ensure the community gets some wins, or else another four years will go past and nothing will happen,” she said.

“I hear that adoption is achievable, but I’m concerned about the position of some members of the Government, although I certainly acknowledge many of the Labor MPs and their membership support such measures.”

Rhiannon believed her civil unions private member’s bill could pass if parties permitted a conscience vote.

“When you are on a stall talking to the public about these issues, so many people assume civil unions are already happening,” she said.

“They see the images overseas and here, we talk about it, and they think we’ve had some progress made, and in NSW we haven’t.

“My concern has grown since Premier Iemma has taken over the job that he doesn’t understand how important these issues are. I’m not sure he’s as sympathetic as the previous Premier was.”

The NSW Greens will also hold a special event to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Mardi Gras in June, honouring original marchers from 1978, a number of whom are now Greens members.

“We see a real connection between our policies and what the 78ers were standing up for,” Rhiannon said.

“We’ll be having the Greens 78ers lead the continent in the Mardi Gras parade. We’re really proud of them.”

You May Also Like

Comments are closed.