Bush backs gay marriage
Marriage equality activists have welcomed the support of former United States First Lady Laura Bush.
Speaking this week on the topic Mrs. Bush said: “when couples are committed to each other and love each other, they ought to have the same sort of rights that everyone has”.
鈥淚f a person like Laura Bush, from one of America鈥檚 most prominent conservative political families, can support same-sex marriage why can鈥檛 Kevin Rudd … are his links to the religious right closer than the Bush family鈥檚?鈥� Australian Marriage Equality national convenor Alex Greenwich said.
In stark contrast to the support from Mrs Bush, the Pope has increased his attack on equal rights for gays and lesbians saying same-sex marriage was “insidious” and a “dangerous threat to the common good”.
This all comes during a time when Australian activists launched their targeted electoral campaign in the seat of Sydney to send a clear message through the polls to Kevin Rudd that he can no longer ignore this issue, the rights of Australians, and the wishes of their families.
“This week around the world we have seen the issue once again thrown into the spotlight, however here in Australia we have continued silence and disregard for the issue from the Prime Minister,” Grenwich said.
Greenwich encouraged people聽 to attend the marriage equality rallies around Australia this weekend in support for same-sex marriage.
“We have to continue to make our voice heard, we encourage everyone who supports this issue to join Sir Ian Mckellen, Danni Minogue, Geoff Field, and 1000s of other concerned Australians at the rallies this weekend,” he said.
info: Details of Rally times and locations can be found at
info: Information on the AME electoral campaign can be found at
Despite Mrs Bush belated support, american gays and lesbian couples have no recognition for financial and legal entitlements – including health care, which without medicare is dependent on employer provided health insurance (and most dont recognise de facto relationships, let alone same sex de facto!).
In Australia, while we dont have marriage, we now have, as gays and lesbian couples,virtually all the benefits and responsibilities marriage provides. (
but yes, lets take the final step and get symbolic/ceremonial recognition from the state)
How can Rudd invoke Dietrich Bonhoeffer with a straight face?