Statement on Marriage Equality

This statement reflects the view of Arts Access Australia (AAA), and our position on marriage equality.

Our values and commitment

AAA is Australia’s national peak body for the Arts and Disability Sector. We are a disability led organisation and provide information, advice, research, advocacy, and leadership. We adopt an inclusive approach and work alongside all disability types, age groups, art forms and across all states and territories of Australia.

Diversity is central to the work we do, it informs our actions, words, policies, and decision-making. We include a broad range of backgrounds and interests, taking into account issues of language, ethnicity, and culture, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status and disability. Our commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion is unwavering.

AAA acknowledges that access to services and opportunities is not equal, and aims to promote equal opportunity for all minority and disadvantaged groups, including people with disability and mental health conditions, women, Indigenous Australians, ethnic minorities, Deaf people, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, and those who hold different beliefs.

Arts Access Australia’s position on marriage equality

AAA acknowledge the strengths of our democratic processes and the current strong support for marriage equality. As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and to equal opportunity, we value the opportunity for a public vote on this matter and look forward with positivity to the upcoming plebiscite.

We encourage all artists to work together to imagine and create, a better world. One in which all Australians respect the values of diversity, inclusion and individual choice. As we move ahead with the plebiscite, let us show respect for one another’s opinions and personal views, even if they differ from our own. Whatever the outcome, let us continue to work together on the important job of imagining better.

AAA acknowledge that current community discussion and debate could cause distress for people who are directly targeted or affected, and the mental health implications this may have for LGBTQI+ artists, their family, friends and supporters. We encourage our community of artists to support each other during this difficult time and to reach out for support from others.

If you are feeling distressed or are concerned about a friend or family member, please contact one of the services below:

A 24 hour, free crisis telephone counselling service is available from Lifeline www.lifeline.org.au or call 13 11 14.

If you are a young person, or the parent or carer of a young person with mental health problems, support is available from headspace www.headspace.org.au or call 1800 650 890.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing family violence, support is available at 1800Respect www.1800respect.org.au or call 1800 737 732.

For more information on the plebiscite visit the Australian Electoral Commission which includes speech enabled ReadSpeaker www.aec.gov.au/FAQs/amlps.htm

Signed,

Mallika Macleod, Chair, Arts Access Australia on behalf of the Board.

Meagan Shand, CEO, Arts Access Australia on behalf of the Staff.