The Hobart crowd …
Events today (Saturday September 9th) in Hobart and Launceston drew large, colourful crowds in support of marriage equality.
An estimated 600 people rallied on the Parliament lawns in Hobart, where speakers urged supporters to get involved in the “yes” campaign.
Long-time marriage equality advocate and spokesperson for Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality, Rodney Croome, said the campaign would need an army of volunteers if it was to have a shot at winning the “yes” vote.
“There is no room for complacency,” Mr Croome said.
“We need to be out there, on foot, on the phone, on air and online making sure our supporters get their ballots in the post box and talking to undecided Tasmanians.”
Respectful debate was another key theme of the rally.
“Fear is a powerful factor in dissuading people from voting ‘yes’. We need to have open, respectful conversations that help allay people’s fears and reassure them that the sky didn’t fall in when we decriminalised homosexuality and it won’t fall in when we legalise same-sex marriage.
“Tasmania will be a better, more inclusive place with more happy and committed families.”
The Equality Walk in Launceston also drew rainbow crowds, with about 200 people marching from Princes Square to City Park.
“It was great to see so many people supporting the Equality Walk and to hear all the cars honking their support,” said Rick Marton, Launceston coordinator for TUME.
The events marked the beginning of a Tasmanian campaign that will highlight local people, stories and issues to demonstrate why marriage equality is important in the island state.
Tasmanians United for Marriage Equality, Rodney Croome
