Marriage Equality's 2nd Birthday

Marriage Equality proudly celebrated its 2nd birthday on Valentine's Day thanks to the generosity of Fire Restaurant, Dawson Street, Dublin 2.

Fire opened up their beautiful restaurant to 200 supporters of Marriage Equality for a celebration which, among other things, included champagne, cake and beautiful vocals from Ireland's legendary Brian Kennedy.

Marriage Equality was humbled by the presence of Dublin's Lord Mayor, Emer Costello and guest speaker Niall Crowley. Both encouraged supporters to continue their efforts to secure equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. Indeed, the Lord Mayor suggested that people not only visit their TDs ask for equal marriage rights, but run for office themselves.

Marriage Equality's Co-Chairs Denise Charlton and Grainne Healy spoke eloquently about their involvement in the campaign since the KAL Initiative to now. They also outlined high points on the road to marriage equality, both locally and internationally.

Moninne Griffith, Marriage Equality's Director, gave a synopsis of all the work undertaken over the past two years. Monnine spoke about the TD campaign, the volunteer network, the importance of LGBT people sharing their story in media.

The celebration was compared by the gregarious Ross Golden-Bannon, and thanks to the generosity of Tour America; artist Sarah Ryan; ceramicist Claire Noons; hair specialists Lunatic Fringe; L'Gueuleton Restaurant, and jeweller The Silver Trout, the raffle was full of wonderful prizes.

Brian Kennedy was met with a rapturous welcome as he sang the event to a close.

Marriage Equality is now entering its terrible twos and remains steadfast in saying NO to inequality, NO to discrimination, NO to Civil Partnership as the only option available to same-sex couples, NO to the abandonment of children with LGBT parents. And we'll keep saying NO until the Government introduces equal marriage rights for same-sex couples.

Until that day, we thank you for your continued support. We ask that even when civil partnership is introduced, you continue to push for equal marriage rights. Dreams do come true and every day we get one step closer to our own.