A COMMUNITY rally in Bathurst on Saturday to put marriage equality back on the federal election agenda has been hailed as a success.
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The rally also aimed to put lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and questioning (LGBTIQ) rights and the Safe Schools Program back on the agenda.
Hosted by the Central West Greens, the rally was part of a national day of action held in communities across Australia to highlight the need for a fairer, more inclusive Australia.
Rally organiser, Marianne Larsen, said around 80 people turned out for the event held at the rotunda in Machattie Park.
Master of ceremonies was Matt Davis and speakers included Greens candidate for Calare, Delanie Sky; Gay Sommerville, who read a letter from former Bathurst woman Julie Berry who had to travel to Canada to get married; and 16-year-old Jordan Kelly, who came out on Facebook because she was so angry about how marriage equality has become a political issue and not a human rights issue.
“Personally I think it is just sad that we have to hold rallies like this, and have voices in parliament and sign petitions and fight for equality,” Ms Sky said.
“It is perfectly natural to love, and a birth right of all of us to find a mate who we connect with and build a life with.”
Ms Larsen said participants blew bubbles, ate cupcakes, had fun with a photo booth and enjoyed a wishing well where they could make wishes for a fairer, more equitable and inclusive Australia.
“We had a fantastic time,” Ms Larsen said. “We all dressed up in crazy, colourful clothes. There were lots of laughs and a lot of pride and support.
“The young people who attended were amazing. This rally was so important to them.”
Ms Larsen said members of the LGBTIQ community were thrilled to have a voice.