Questionable Deeds

<p>One random night in 2004 Michael Burge's long-term partner choreographer Jonathan Rosten died suddenly while rehearsing a show. In the midst of the ensuing grief Jono's relatives started the secret and devastating process of disenfranchising Michael from his position as Jono's next of kin.</p><p>With his name removed from Jono's death certificate Michael found himself unable to wrap-up his de-facto partner's affairs; in a legal ethical and financial 'David and Goliath' battle that was none of his making.</p><p>Exiled from his own life facing grief depression and suicidal thoughts Michael eventually found the courage to fight back.</p><p>Along the way he came face-to-face with his own demons and those of the generation that faced HIV/AIDS and the ensuing legislative no-man's land which saw many de-facto couples disenfranchised by homophobic families.</p><p>Through asserting his right to grieve the loss of his partner not only personally but on a public and legislative level Michael's story offers a rarely heard surprising and honest voice for all Australians dealing with loss.</p><p>Set against a country coming to terms with the human rights and responsibilities of same-sex equality Questionable Deeds offers one man's argument for marriage equality and why it's a no-brainer for any 21st century nation. </p>