While the rally took place, coincidentally, on the same day as another major event, Surf The City in Sydney, a long run, it  did not however  prevent a sizeable crowd of a few hundred from turning up.

I got involved when I met a fellow LGBT [1] activist at another rally previously. I was also invited to attend the organizing committee’s meeting prior to this event, where I took the opportunity to relate to the organizers more about the situation back in Singapore. Needless to say, I heartily agreed to volunteer for today's rally.

Assigned the duties of stall coordination and other miscellaneous tasks, I was basically going around with tin cans asking for donations, distributing organization pamphlets, and getting participants to sign the petition against the ban on same-sex marriage; as well as leaving their contact details with the organization.

Prior to the march, a few guest speakers, including elected Members of Parliament from the Green Party, came on stage to gave inspiring and motivating speeches. They touched on LGBT and related issues such as the relationship between worker’s rights and queer rights and the homophobic stance of the Howard government.

Blessed by good weather, the march took place from Oxford Street to Hyde Park; with the police acting as road marshals. During the march, slogans such as "1, 2, 3, 4, equal rights for all; 5,6,7,8, love does not discriminate" were shouted ,demanding equal gay rights.

After the contingent arrived at Hyde Park, more speeches were given by prominent gay activists.

The most moving moments were however scheduled at the end of the day. Couples were encouraged to go on stage and participate in a marriage ceremony conducted by a pastor from the Metropolitan Church. The couples exchanged vows against a background of romantic classical music.

The Same Sex Marriage – National Day of Action Rally in Sydney might not have been as huge as the Mardi Gras which Sydney is reputed for. Nevertheless, having participated in this event has helped me realize its importance in various ways.

I believe such rallies are important to build solidarity among different queer groups and demonstrate willingness to combat institutionalised homophobia.