Wycheproof man launches rainbow campaign for marriage equality

The Wycheproof-born student is behind An Equal Footing, the initiative using rainbow shoelaces to start a conversation about same-sex marriage.  

The idea was born on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia when Mr Keane threaded multi-coloured laces through his shoes.  

The colourful accoutrement earned him so many compliments he not only kept wearing the laces, but set out to share them with other supporters of marriage equality too. Just weeks after launching, An Equal Footing has sent shoelaces to all but one of Australia’s states and territories.  

The project coincides with last Saturday’s election, the results of which could threaten marriage equality, Mr Keane said.  

“It’s really concerning the issue may not be dealt with because of the makeup of the Parliament and the Senate,” he said. 

Mr Keane expressed his disapproval of a plebiscite, expecting its opponents would use the vote as a chance to air bigoted sentiments.  

“That helps perpetuate the self loathing a lot of LGBTI people suffer from,” he said, explaining he initially struggled to embrace his sexuality. 

The central Victorian described growing up in Wycheproof, without any LGBTI role models, as an isolating experience that contributed to bouts of mental illness. 

He credited youth outreach programs with helping him come to terms with his identity and wants to direct proceeds from An Equal Footing to organisations like those who supported him in tough times.  

“They helped me network with people like myself and come to terms with homophobic feelings I had within myself.” 

He also said attitudes had changed in his hometown, with the Buloke Shire council passing a motion in support of same-sex marriage last year and writing to state and federal governments on the topic.

Family had also been a vital source of support for Mr Keane. His mother, Yvonne, praised her son for taking a stand on marriage equality, an issue she said was critical to making same-sex attracted people feel accepted.  

“Having witnessed the mental pain and suffering Matt endured, even with our support, I strongly encourage parents, siblings, relatives and friends to support these individuals,” she said. 

“All such people have the right to feel normal and accepted in society.

“We're so proud of [Matt] and how he's battled through.”

The shoelaces cost $10 and can be purchased at www.anequalfooting.com.au.