We are rarely given the opportunity to express our opinion about changes to specific laws that impact on us and our loved ones. Sure, we vote for political representatives and the policies they present. But even when our chosen party wins government, there is no guarantee the commitments they make will be delivered. Time and again we are let down when policies are reneged on. Sometimes the reasons are legitimate but more often than not it's because the minority ends up ruling the political process. Just block it. Or, the party we chose and put into government finds it can’t afford the promises they make.
At the last election, we were presented with the proposal to allow a plebiscite on same sex marriage. The party that presented that proposal won. The assumption being a plebiscite is something the majority want; the opportunity to express an opinion. Of course the mud has been slung in both directions. As for too many of our elected representatives they do not question the raison d'être of the process they simply follow their party line blindly. BLOCK stuff you and me. Stuff what the public voted for.
Those of us who support the plebiscite and who have the temerity to express our opinions have been treated extremely poorly by many on the opposing side. The nasty personal attacks accusing us of wanting to vilify and sledge are regularly thrown at us. Sure, there are those who will. But I’m of the opinion the vast majority simply want the choice to say what they think. Be it yes or no to gay marriage. That’s what I want.
In reading through the no pitches during the senate debate last night, we see the usual counter-argument that John Howard didn’t go to the people when he amended the marriage act. Of course, those playing this card ignore two things. One, the circumstances that necessitated swift action at the time. Secondly, because he didn’t, doesn't mean we shouldn’t go to the people on the current proposed change.
As for those who play the abuse card. Denying people the right to express their views won’t stop that. In fact, in my humble opinion it could make it worse. Most Australians, if they are sensible and reasonable do accept the umpires decision. I’ve heard many express the opinion; let people say what they think and then let's put it to bed. Put up and then shut-up. That's exactly how I feel.
I thought Senator Jacqui Lambie summed it up beautifully with her closing statement in the chamber last night when she said.
“Just as we senators are able to put our points of view and test what we believe is true and sacred about marriage in this great chamber of debate, so too must we give all Australians the opportunity to put their points of view and test what they believe is true and sacred about marriage in an even greater chamber of debate: the Australia beyond this parliament and the local ballot boxes where people of this great democracy can have their say. I fully support this legislation.”
As I said in my opening. We aren’t given the opportunity to have a direct say very often. I am extremely disappointed it's been taken away on the rare occasion offered. As for those who denied us, they should be drop kicked from a very great height.
