Layla - "The following is part of what Mr. Martin had to say: “I rise today in support of Bill C-38, the Civil Marriage Act. I rise in support of a Canada in which liberties are safeguarded, rights are protected and the people of this land are treated as equals under the law. If we do not step forward, then we must step back. If we do not protect a right, then we deny it.”

Mr. Martin, a devout Roman Catholic, was challenged by the Bishop of Calgary, Frederick Henry, who was in favour of excommunicating Martin for his plan to legalize same-sex marriage. Henry said that the prime minister’s politics clashed with his religion. The Bishop went on to say, “You’re either with the Church, or you are not.”

Mr. Martin considers his beliefs a personal matter, but believes strongly in equality, including equal marriage. The gay community is thankful that this prime minister realized the need for equal marriage in this country, in spite of his religious affiliation."