Argentina legalizes same-sex marriage

July 16, 2010 at 12:00a.m.

Associated Press

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina

Argentina became the first Latin American nation to legalize gay marriage Thursday, granting same-sex couples all the legal rights, responsibilities and protections that marriage brings to heterosexuals.

The law’s passage — a priority for President Cristina Fernandez’s government — has inspired activists to push for similar laws in other countries, and a wave of gay weddings is expected in Buenos Aires. Some gay business leaders are predicting an economic ripple effect from an increase in tourism among gays and lesbians who will see Argentina as an even more- attractive destination.

But it also carries political risks for Fernandez and her husband, former President Nestor Kirchner. The vote divided their governing coalition, and though gay rights have strong support in the capital, anti-gay feelings still run strong in much of Argentine society, where the vast majority of people are Roman Catholic.

After a marathon debate that touched on religion, ethics, the legacy of Argentina’s dictatorship and the challenges of rearing children, the 33-27 Senate vote was tallied shortly before dawn, with three abstentions. Since the lower house already approved it, the law takes effect within days.

The approval came despite a concerted campaign by the Roman Catholic Church and evangelical groups, which drew 60,000 people to march on Congress and urged parents to work against passage.