Newcastle Council has announced their formal support for marriage equality.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes will move a Mayoral Minute as one of the first business items of the new term at Tuesday's council meeting.
Council will also show support by putting up banners across the city, flying the rainbow flag at City Hall and displaying the 'yes' campaign on their official website and social media platforms.
Councillor Nelmes says, 'Newcastle has long led the way in the fight for social justice, fairness and equality so I'm hopeful that the City will take a strong leadership role in the fight for marriage equality for all Australian.'
Newcastle Labor Councillor Declan Clausen says it's vital the Council and community both support equality for the diverse scope of Novocastrians.
'We know that around ten percent of Newcastle's population identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, and it's absolutely critical that we stand up for their rights, and make sure those people feel included and welcome.'
The first meeting will also discuss planning a community event to advocate for yes votes.
The motion will build on Council's ongoing position in favour of marriage equality, with hopes the event will have a similar outcome to Islington's previous rainbow walk, acknowledging Newcastle's diversity.
Councillor Clausen hopes the actions of the council will inspire similar support from the rest of the community.
'Right now we're going through a fairly divisive postal plebiscite process because there's been a failure of action at federal government level. There's an opportunity for the City Council to stand up for the rights of all our residents.'
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| Image Credit: http://mentalfloss.com/article/28442/how-rainbow-became-associated-gay-rights |
