Simon Kirby MP in Gay Marriage debate tonight

Changing Attitude Sussex will stage a debate on gay marriage tonight, Friday, June 21 at 8pm at St Mary’s Church (on the corner of St James’ Street and Rock Gardens, Kemptown, Brighton) in the heart of Brighton’s gay village.

The principal speakers will be Simon Kirby, MP for Kemptown, and Brighton councillor Christina Summers.

Simon has been an outspoken longstanding committed supporter of equal marriage.

Earlier this year he said:

“I support equality because I believe the institution of marriage strengthens families and society, and I think that the benefits of a legally defined marriage should not be excluded to anyone because of their sexuality. I will be doing my utmost to support the cause of equal marriage in Parliament in the weeks and months ahead.”

Christina Summers is now an independent Brighton councillor after she was controversially expelled from the Green Party because of her opposition to same-sex marriage, based on her Christian convictions.

During a council debate on the issue she declared:

“When you touch marriage, you’re hitting at the very heart of God, and I have an enormous problem with that.”

The supporting speaker for gay marriage will be the Rev David Page, and Dr Sharon James of the Coalition for Marriage will also speak against. There will be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions and raise issues with the speakers.

Dr Keith Sharpe, Chair of Changing Attitude Sussex, said:

“In view of the Bill currently going through Parliament this is a very timely public debate which is of particular relevance in Brighton given its large gay population. The principal speakers take diametrically opposite views and this should be an exciting event.”

Everybody is welcome and entry is free.

Event: Gay Marriage debate

Where: St Mary’s Church on the corner of St James’ Street and Rock Gardens, Kemptown, Brighton

When: Friday, June 21

Time: 8pm

Entry: Free