The Marriage Amendment Bill may have created controversy among many sections of the society but younger members of the society appear to be largely in favour of the legislation legalising same sex marriage.
The Private Member Bill, tabled by Labour MP Louisa Wall is almost certain to become law with its successful second reading in Parliament.
Youngsters representing the youth wings of all the eight parties in Parliament, closing their political ranks, have unanimously endorsed the proposed legislation.
They signed a joint statement on March 11, 2013 in Wellington, stating that they supported the principle of ‘marriage equality.’
Removing discrimination
Young National Vice President, Shaun Wallis said that the youth branch of his Party was delighted that a majority of National MPs voted in favour of the Bill at its first and second reading.
“Our members overwhelmingly support marriage equality as we believe in freedom and equal opportunity for all Kiwis,” he said.
Young Labour spokesperson, Sam Thompson said, “Equality under the law for all New Zealanders is a priority for Young Labour. We will continue to advocate for the right of loving couples to marry,” he said.
Young Greens spokesperson, Izzy Lomax, said that the Young Greens believed in a society free from discrimination.
“We look forward to an end to all discrimination against rainbow communities, starting with allowing loving same sex couples to marry,” she said.
Referendum needed
New Zealand First Youth leader Curwen Rolinson said that the youth wing of his Party was united in supporting a referendum on this issue.
“While there is a large and vocal proportion of New Zealand First Youth who would vote in favour, it is by no means unanimous. We feel that changes in legislation should come with direct support of the people and not filtered through layers of temporarily empowered politicians and political parties.”
Maori support
Maori Party kaikorero rangatahi Teaonui Mckenzie said that he is proud that all three Maori Party MPs support the right of same sex couples to marry and form a whanau.
Mana Rangatahi spokesperson Ian Anderson said that Mana are behind the Bill and will work to reduce societal inequality wherever possible.
Act on Campus President Taylor Warwood said that his Party have been long-time supporters of marriage equality.
“We believe its passage will be entirely consistent with ACT policy of one law for all.”
United Future spokesman Damian Light said allowing couples who love each other to marry is just common sense.
“Our support is consistent with our liberal belief in equality for all,” he said.
Powerful message
Campaign for Marriage Equality Spokesperson Conrad Reyners said the unanimous support for marriage equality sent a powerful message.
“Marriage equality is no longer a question of if, but of when. We can’t wait for Parliament to vote in favour of the Bill,” he said.
