Lin Surch

Self-proclaimed activist, idealist, university student, executive, dyke, wife, lover, confidante, cousin, daughter, friend... Lin Surch is an active member of the community. She stands up for equality and believes in courage. In 2005, she wrote a series of letters to the Australian Human Rights Commission seeking a repeal of The Marriage Act Amendment and an inclusion of Same-Sex Couples within the definition of the Act. Countless hours were spent researching Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Laws. Lin is currently studying Criminal Justice, and continues to lobby members of the Australian Parliament for positive change. Committed to equal rights for the community and actively educating those who cross her path along the way.

Lin is photographed with her life partner, Jaimie Surch (Lin took up Jaimie’s surname after their “wedding” in 2007). They hope to have children one day in the near future. It is their greatest collective dream that very soon Australia will be even more loving. They both strongly believe that these reforms are leading the way for more positive change in the future.

Why have you chosen to represent this same-sex law reform campaign?

Any law reform that results in the achievement of equality for same-sex individuals and couples in Australia is a reform that I am proud and honoured to have my stamp on. We are all equal and our laws must reflect this. It is something I feel very strongly about.

What sorts of same-sex discrimination have you or anyone you know experienced?

The fact that we cannot get married or adopt children is the current discrimination that we still face, and it hurts us deeply. I look forward to the day the Australian Government corrects this law – it is long overdue. I have been discriminated against for my sexuality from members of my own and extended family. The pain this has caused me in the past is deeper than perhaps they will ever know. The majority though have always been normal, loving and supportive. I am a strong believer that both education and understanding are paramount and I believe that these law reforms are a tangible step forward… in sending the message to everyone that same-sex discrimination is not acceptable, it is not okay, no excuses.

How do you think these reforms will make a difference to your life, or to the lives of those close to you?

They will make a difference to our lives, and as we get older, we can be assured of the same rights as our fellow Australians, these laws that have always been afforded them because they happen to be heterosexual, are also now afforded to us. It is a big step toward equality and justice.

Why do you think people should wear these 85 law reforms with pride?

Everyone has an intrinsic, natural right to be proud of whom they are. And how far our community has come is to be celebrated. All love is to be celebrated.

Why do you think this is a huge step forward for Australia?

It is such a huge step forward! Even still, there are two more steps to go: State adoption laws, and federal marriage laws. Once they have been amended, we are truly equal. The 85 laws that this reform has seen is step is paramount and such an important step in the right direction for us all.

What do you like about your T-Shirt design?

I really love it! It is spunky and I really dig the colour. Plus Jaimie looks hot in hers ;)

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I am becoming more and more proud to be an Australian. I am so grateful to the people who were involved in lobbying hard and achieving these law reforms for our community. I am genuinely honoured and privileged to be a part of such a positive and worthy program.

LIN SURCH