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Campaign For Marriage Equality Ecstatic About Second Reading Vote

The Campaign for Marriage Equality is extremely pleased with the result of Parliament's vote on Louisa Wall's Marriage Equality Bill, which clearly passed it second reading tonight by 77 votes in favour with 44 votes opposed.

"This was a second ringing endorsement for marriage equality. Parliament has listened to the voices of thousands of New Zealanders, many of who explained how positive and important this change was for their dignity and their lives. " said spokesperson for the Marriage Equality Campaign, Conrad Reyners.

"We want to thank all those who contacted their MPs, spoke with their friends and whānau, or who submitted to the Select Committee. Your hard work has been rewarded today" said Conrad Reyners.

"This debate has been controversial and we recognise the depth of feeling on all sides. We are proud to see Parliament voting with the majority of ordinary kiwis who know marriage is about love, family and commitment." said Conrad Reyners.

"This vote is another step forward for love, for fairness and for equal treatment before the law. Marriage Equality is a global movement, and we are proud of the New Zealand Parliament for taking the next step towards full legal equality for LGBT kiwis" said Conrad Reyners.

“We were impressed by the calibre of speeches that MPs gave in parliament tonight. They were bold, they were brave and they once again stood up strongly for dignity, love and equal treatment for all.” said Conrad Reyners.

The Campaign for Marriage Equality will continue to support for the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Bill as it makes its way through Parliament. The Bill must now pass through its Committee stage and Third Reading and the Campaign will be fully supporting it on that important journey.

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

ENDS

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