Organisers of a mass commitment ceremony at this year's Big Gay Out in February say it is a timely political statement, as well a public expression of love. Event organisers Jonathan Smith and Sandi Goodwin, who have both been involved in ceremonies themselves with their respective partners, say they have many reasons for including the event in the Big Gay Out programme this year, including a wish for people to experience the power of a commitment ceremony. The event is also a timely reminder of the introduction of Parliament's Civil Unions Bill, which will give legal recognition to same-sex relationships for the first time. Smith and Goodwin hope the Big Gay Out ceremony will encourage the community to support the bill whether they wish to commit or not. A group of Civil Union bill supporters from the media industry will have a stall at the Big Gay Out which will provide further information on how the community can support the bill on its passage through Parliament.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Friday, 16th January 2004 - 12:00pm