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Campaign for Marriage Equality Celebrates Historic Vote

The Campaign for Marriage Equality is delighted with Louisa Wall's Marriage Equality Bill comfortably passing its first reading by 78 to 40 late on Wednesday night.

"This vote is a great step forward for equality and fairness in New Zealand" said the spokesperson for the Marriage Equality Campaign, Conrad Reyners.

"I'd like to thank all of the MPs who stood up for equality and for a fair go for everyday kiwis. It's great to see so many MPs from a diverse range of backgrounds supporting this Bill to Select Committee, so that New Zealanders have a chance to have their say on why marriage equality matters."

The Campaign for Marriage Equality will be supporting the public to make submissions on the Bill, and will be providing information to New Zealanders about how to get involved. This will be done through the Marriage Equality website at http://www.marriageequality.co.nz/

"The vast majority of kiwis support this Bill. Two thirds of New Zealanders are in favour of marriage equality and want to see the law changed. Over 73% of those aged under between 18 - 34 also support marriage equality. Change is going to happen, so why wait? Let's get on with it and get it done now" said Reyners.

"At its heart, marriage equality is about removing an historic discrimination and giving every kiwi a fair go. It's about recognising that two people of the same-sex can love and commit to each other just like everyone else. It's time that New Zealand's laws reflected this modern reality."

"We are incredibly pleased that Louisa's Bill has passed its first hurdle and are looking forward to supporting it throughout the Parliamentary process. New Zealanders are welcoming of change, and recognise that it's finally time to bring about marriage equality."

The Campaign for Marriage Equality is a unified coalition of supporters, campaigners, groups and organisations that are working to support marriage equality and the marriage equality Bill. More information on can be found at http://www.marriageequality.co.nz/who-we-are.html
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