An online petition pleading for the Australian immigration minister to stop the forthcoming deportation of a Pakistani born but US bred man, has garnered almost 50,000 signatures in just over 24 hours.
Ali Choudhry and his partner long term partner, Matthew Hynd have been trying to gain government recognition for their relationship that would allow Choudhry, who runs his own photography business, to stay in Brisbane.
Ali and Matthew, who first met online, were one of the first same sex couples to register their civil union in March 2012. However, their civil unionship revoked only 12 weeks later.
They had planned to be celebrating their four year anniversary this coming February, however Choudhry is due for deportation on January 8th, which also happens to be his birthday.
Although claiming that a government official had suggested that Ali “just marry a woman”, Matthew says they tried to do everything by the right processes and are now fighting for the chances to stay together.
Taking to the internet for support, Choudhry and Hynd began a pozible project aimed at fundraising just over $2, 500 to cover paperwork submissions and the fees in hiring a lawyer; a project which has seen $6000 pledged in support.
“We’re asking you today. Please help us today”, said Hynd.
“Please help us support love”.
