It was also notable for passing without any homophobic amendments from more conservative lawmakers, including discriminatory “protections” for religious freedoms.
After four days of debate — and after Senators had already approved the bill — the House of Representatives passed marriage equality. Of the 148 Members of Parliament, 136 voted in favor. It now awaits royal assent before officially becoming law.
“What a day for love, for equality, for respect. Australia has done it,” said Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. “This is Australia, fair, diverse, loving and filled with respect. For every one of us this is a great day.”
Alex Greenwich, co-convener of Australian Marriage Equality, said: “Marriage equality is finally the law of the land and we are so proud of Australia, we are so proud of the LGBTQI community, we are so proud of our Parliament for bringing together people across the political aisle, making people happy and doing something amazing.”
After it was announced that the marriage equality bill had succeeded, the Parliament erupted in celebration, with some present waving a large rainbow flag. The Parliament’s public gallery then began a chorus of “I Am Australian,” a popular anthem in the country.
Today is a momentous day. #MarriageEquality has passed through Parliament, ensuring marriage equality for all.
We believe we can’t be a city for all people unless all people are treated equally. We’re glad everyone in our community is now free to marry the person they love. pic.twitter.com/WHlNYBVuBf
Dolly Parton, the beloved singer-songwriter, actress, and longtime LGBTQ ally, has died at age 80.
Parton's nephew, Brian Seaver, announced her death in a video posted to her Instagram account.
"My name is Brian Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I'm representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next," Seaver said in the video.
"This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven't truly felt it 'til now," Seaver continued.
The board of directors of Log Cabin Republicans, a gay conservative political advocacy group that touts itself as dedicated to "building a more inclusive GOP," announced that it was dropping support for transgender rights from its mission.
Since its founding in the late 1970s, the group has promoted conservative values and policies -- grounded in the constitutional principles of equal protection under the law, limited government, and individual freedom -- while advocating for equal rights and fairness regardless of sexual orientation.
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