This weekend’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade will have a political message, rallying against the federal law that prohibits same-sex marriages.
With gay marriage high on the national agenda, Mardi Gras isn’t missing the chance to tap into the debate, featuring an estimated 15 floats dedicated to the issue.
“We are planning something huge and spectacular that will send a loud and clear message to the world about how strongly our community feels about this issue,” Parade producer Vicktor Petroff said.
While the positions of both major parties are that marriage should be between a man and a woman, some politicians are responding to the community’s campaign, signalling a willingness to change their position.
Liberal frontbencher Malcolm Turnbull has privately polled his electorate finding 68 per cent in favour of same-sex marriage, acknowledging community views were changing despite the firm stance he earlier took against same-sex marriage.
Deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop has said she is willing to listen to the views of her electorate when considering her vote, and Labour powerbroker Mark Arbib has come out in favour of same-sex unions.
Your say: Do you think the government allow same-sex unions to be legalised? Would you support gay marriage in your state? openline@bauermd
