Need help with your marriage submission?

The recently-announced marriage equality Senate inquiry gives supporters of reform an excellent opportunity to have our voices heard.

A good submission is one that does several things. First, it is well informed.

If you want to cite the level of support for marriage equality in Australia, or where equality has been enacted overseas, make sure you have a look at Australian Marriage Equality’s fact sheets first.

Second, it should cover the major issues raised by marriage equality.

The inquiry will be looking at whether civil unions are a substitute for full equality, and whether religious celebrants should be free to refuse to marry same-sex couples. Make sure you address these key issues.

Third, it must be respectful and constructive. It is frustrating that marriage equality hasn’t occurred yet, but the nation is moving in the right direction.

In your submission focus on the positive changes which are occurring like support for equality from the Labor Party National Conference.

Don’t get angry, dwell on negatives or stereotype opponents of reform.

Fourth, include a personal story. I know from experience that personal stories make all the difference. They illustrate the real-life impact of marriage discrimination. They show how this discrimination affects not just same-sex partners but our families and friends. They help others walk in our shoes.

Many people tell me “I don’t have a personal story”. But when they reflect on the discrimination they have experienced or their desire to have their relationship affirmed, invariably they find they do have a story to tell.

AME has a collection of personal stories on its website. Reading these will give you ideas about how to tell your own story.

Once you have written your submission share it with friends and family members as a way of encouraging them to write their own submissions.

It is vital submissions are received from a broad range of people across the community, and that there as many of them as possible.

I’m hopeful the inquiry will delve deeply into the issues raised by equality and that it may even recommend reform.

Compelling submissions will have an important role to play in achieving the best possible outcome.

by Alex Greenwich, Australian Marriage Equality

INFO: To make a submission click HERE