Overview
Airbnb Australia has just launched #UntilWeAllBelong, a marriage equality campaign that involves wearing an 'incomplete' ring in an act of LGBTQI+ marriage support. The company is using this physical symbol as a way to further publicise the equality gap conversation, as well as to give individuals the chance to have their voices heard through direct action.
Designed in partnership with influential Australian designer Marc Newson, each limited edition ring has an electroplated matte black finish and has been inscribed with the phrase "Until we all belong" — supporters promise to wear the ring until marriage equality legislation is passed. The ring also features a 2.2mm gap in its loop, which is meant to symbolise the current inequality of marriage in Australia. Participants can purchase the ring for a postage and handling fee of $3.50, with absolutely no profit on the rings going to Airbnb. Per unit costs cover only the postage and handling within Australia.
"This incomplete ring symbolises the gap in marriage equality that we need to close," reads the website. "Until the day comes when two people who love each other can celebrate that love through commitment, will you wear this ring and show your acceptance of marriage equality?"
A video supporting the campaign was released on the Airbnb Australia Twitter account yesterday and it promotes the fight as one which all Australians should be participating in — whether you're showing support for your sibling, parent, neighbour, friend or yourself.
This incomplete ring symbolises the gap in marriage equality in Australia. Wear this ring & show your acceptance #untilweallbelong pic.twitter.com/hiTRtChHks
— Airbnb Australia (@airbnb_au) April 2, 2017
Airbnb's public support of marriage equality comes after a wave of Australian businesses and brands speaking up, with a major marriage equality campaign backed by 30 of the nation's largest companies in March. The letter, coordinated by Australian Marriage Equality, urges PM Malcolm Turnbull to legislate same-sex marriage and is signed by the chief executives of such big businesses as Qantas, Westpac, Commonwealth Bank, Telstra, Holden and ANZ, to name a few. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has continued to speak out on his and the company's support of the campaign, despite backlash comments by immigration minister Peter Dutton, who has made bold claims that the businesses were "bullied" into supporting the letter — though no proof of this claim has been offered by Dutton.
The debate around marriage equality has been continuously escalating in recent months, with Skyy Vodka's Cheers to Equality and Smirnoff's We're Open campaigns also recently launched, and following last month's consumer boycott against Coopers after an uncomfortably timed video run by the Bible Society. According to Galaxy Research polls, 64 percent of Australians support marriage equality, so its likely more brands will herald their support for the cause.