NBC's program, Today, has opened its annual wedding competition to allow gay couples to enter for the first time in the competition's eleven year history. The program invites its viewers to act as wedding planners ,choosing what the winning couple will wear, where they will honeymoon and who will ultimately win a wedding at the Rockefeller Plaza.

The controversial move came as a federal judge in Boston ruled part of the Defense of Marriage Act, within the US, as unconstitutional.  The theme of the competition this year is 'modern love' and the show's move to include gay couples has created a lively debate, including this letter to the Los Angeles Times by community commentator, Andrew Heslop.

He writes,"The decision by the NBC Today Show to allow same-sex couples to enter the program's annual wedding contest is both landmark and revolutionary. It's also not unexpected from a show that has been a consistent leader since its inception.

"As an Australian resident and long-time viewer of Today via The Seven Network here it's heartening to see a major American media organisation, NBC, recognise that times have indeed changed. Currently Australian families with same-sex attracted children are denied the opportunity to witness them legally commit to their chosen life partner in the same way their heterosexual children can.

"While many aspects of federal law in Australia have recently been amended to recognise same-sex partnerships [superannuation, social security and inheritance among them], formal and equal recognition of commitment or marriage ceremonies is yet to be achieved.

"Having just spent three weeks in Mexico meeting my same-sex partner's family for the first time while attending his sister's wedding, it was immensely moving to be welcomed warmly, openly and equally by them. I understand the religious conflict many parents of same-sex attracted children have.

"But shouldn't it be every parent's wish for their sons and daughters to achieve a loving and supportive relationship, regardless of the chosen partner's gender?" he said.

For the full LA Times article, click here.

If you wish to interview Andrew Heslop, please call Libby Fordham on +61 411 473 938.