LNP’S CIVIL UNION DECISION HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY

AUSTRALIAN MARRIAGE EQUALITY

Media Release
Tuesday June 12th 2012

LNP’S CIVIL UNION DECISION HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY

Marriage equality advocates say the decision by Queensland’s Premier, Campbell Newman, to remove official ceremonies from the Queensland Civil Union Act highlights the importance of achieving marriage equality nationally.

Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Alex Greenwich said,

“This is a good example of why allowing same-sex marriages is the only way to deliver true equality for same-sex couples.”

“Civil unions can be tampered with and watered down but marriage will always provide full recognition.”

Mr Greenwich said he is deeply troubled by Mr Newman’s statement that state-sanctioned ceremonies will be removed because they offend some Christians.

“Religious values, however deeply held, can never be a reason to take away people’s rights.”

AUSTRALIAN MARRIAGE EQUALITY

Media Release
Tuesday June 12th 2012

STARBUCKS’ SUPPORT FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY WELCOMED

Advocates have welcomed support for same-sex marriage from Starbucks Australia.

Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Alex Greenwich, said,

“Starbucks’ support is a boost for the marriage equality campaign and is in line with the views of a majority of Australians.”

“Starbuck’s stand is based on principle and reflects the company’s concern that its staff and customers are treated equally under the law.”

This evening Starbucks Australia posted the following statement on its facebook page (www.facebook.com/StarbucksAustralia):

“Core to who we are and what we value as a company is our belief in equal treatment of our partners (employees) and our customers. It is with this in mind that Starbucks Australia would like to publicly announce our proud support of Marriage Equality for all. Many of our stores and partners are actively participating in events and activities aimed at changing local legislation – together we can make a difference.”

Starbucks in the US already supports marriage equality, sparking a “Dump Starbucks” boycott by anti-equality groups.

Mr Greenwich said any attempts at a boycott in Australia would be met with strong support for the company from supporters of marriage equality.

Starbucks’ statement comes only days after it was revealed that Gloria Jeans coffee chain donated $30,000 to the Australian Christian Lobby in the 2010-2011 tax year. For more see: http://www.samesame.com.au/news/local/8529/Your-coffee-funds-Wallaces-rants.htm

Alex Greenwich, Australian Marriage Equality