– Rosie Kelly contributed to this report
There was a jubilant atmosphere on Saturday, February 9th, 2013 as supporters of equal marriage marched through Lincoln.
The event was organised by the Lincoln Liberal Students organisation to celebrate the passing of the Government’s new bill allowing same-sex couples to marry.
At 1.30pm, a flashmob formed in the Bailgate area of Lincoln, wearing fancy dress and singing along to well-known “gay” anthems. Handing out stickers and rainbow hearts, the group then marched down Lincoln High Street to the University of Lincoln, where speeches were made.
A crowd of intrigued tourists gathered to watch at the top of Steep Hill and heads continued to turn as the group made their way into the town centre. Jessica Kment, a supporter of same-sex marriage who was at the event on Saturday, said: “Equal marriage should be a human right. I’m surprised it took this long to happen!”
Organiser Natasha Chapman said: “It was overwhelming to see such a diverse group of people out to celebrate a victory for LGBT and equality.
“This change is part of a natural progression of equal rights, a small change that will make a huge difference in the long run. It isn’t just about the right to marry who you want, but also the legal recognition of relationships having the same value regardless of who you love.”
Following a vote in the Commons on Tuesday, February 5th, 2013, the bill to legalise same-sex marriage passed with a majority of 225. Although popular support for the bill was strong, Lincoln MP Karl McCartney opposed the move.