MEXICO: Hundreds of same-sex couples tie the knot in a symbolic ceremony in Mexico

Record ID: 278153

  • Title: MEXICO: Hundreds of same-sex couples tie the knot in a symbolic ceremony in Mexico
  • Date: 15th February 2006
  • Summary: (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) JUDGE MIRIAM DEL ANGEL, SAYING: "We conduct these weddings, that we know aren't legal, but we do them with much affection because they desire very much to be united."
  • Embargoed: 2nd March 2006 12:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Mexico
  • Country: Mexico
  • Topics: Legal System,Lifestyle
  • Reuters ID: LVACLF0HZMUE4CR9OYPJLGJQQAV1
  • Story Text: Hundreds of gay and lesbian couples participated in a symbolic wedding ceremony in Alameda Central in Mexico City on Tuesday (February 14).
    The annual celebration was organized by Mexican gay rights activists who hope to highlight their plight and increase support for a bill that would recognize same-sex unions.
    "We conduct these weddings," said Judge Miriam del Angel, "that we know aren't legal, but we do them with much affection because they desire very much to be united."
    Same-sex marriages are not recognized in Mexico, a deeply Catholic country, and a bill that would give the unions recognition has been defeated in Mexico's Congress.
    Still, the couples said the ceremony was worthwhile.
    "It gives us greater value among us and we want to show that we can move ahead in society," said Omar Curiel who participated in the ceremony with his partner.
    The Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia and Canada give same-sex couples the rights traditionally offered to married couples. Some other countries allow gay and lesbian civil unions, which vary in the rights they give the couples. Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex unions in July of 2003.
  • Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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