History of Marriage Equality in Ireland: A Social Revolution Begins

Through a public vote, Ireland became the first country to extend civil marriage to same-sex couples. The Yes Equality campaign sparked a social revolution, leading to further referenda decriminalizing abortion and introducing a less punitive divorce regime. This book provides a concise historical record of the referendum, with a foreword by Ivana Bacik, a Senator and Professor of Criminal Law at Trinity College Dublin.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 19 October 2021
\n Publisher: Manchester University Press
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Ireland's Historic Vote for Marriage Equality:



Ireland holds a remarkable distinction as the first country in the world to extend civil marriage to same-sex couples through a public vote. The marriage equality referendum, held in 2015, witnessed an unprecedented turnout of voters, including Irish emigrants who returned from across the globe to ensure a resounding majority in favor of this constitutional amendment. The overwhelming positive result marked a historic moment, as it clearly separated the church and state in Ireland, potentially for the first time in the country's history.

The Yes Equality campaign, which spearheaded the movement for marriage equality, ignited a social revolution throughout Ireland. This transformative movement led to further referenda, such as the decriminalization of abortion and the introduction of a less punitive regime for obtaining a divorce. These significant victories not only affirmed the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals but also showcased Ireland's commitment to equality and social progress.

To capture the essence of this historic referendum and the broader social changes it engendered, this book offers a comprehensive account. Drawing upon published reports, newspaper articles, marriage equality papers, and extracts from Dáil debates, it traces the key legislative and social developments surrounding Irish marriage equality. From the establishment of the advocacy group in 2008 to the referendum on the extension of civil marriage rights to same-sex couples in 2015, this book provides a concise historical record of the momentous referendum.

Moreover, this book is graced by a foreword by Ivana Bacik, a Senator and Reid Professor of Criminal Law, Criminology, and Penology at Trinity College Dublin. Bacik is renowned for her tireless work in defending human rights and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. Her foreword adds an insightful perspective to the narrative, emphasizing the significance of this historical achievement and the ongoing struggle for equality.

In conclusion, Ireland's historic vote for marriage equality represents a pivotal moment in the country's history. Through a public vote, the nation has demonstrated its commitment to equality, diversity, and social progress. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the legislative and social changes that led to this momentous referendum and the broader social revolution it sparked.

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Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526160782\n \n