Married in Mexico

Gay couple wed in Mexico City
Attitudes change in country with macho rep
March 19, 2007

MEXICO CITY - An economist and a journalist became the first couple

united under Mexico City's new gay civil union law, kissing while an orchestra

played ''Besame Mucho'' and police cordoned off streets around a white wedding

tent filled with guests. The new law, which took effect on Friday, grants same-sex

couples inheritance rights and social benefits similar to those enjoyed by married

heterosexual couples. It reflects a growing acceptance of homosexuality in what

has traditionally been a macho society, as well as a willingness by Mexico City

to join the international debate on gay marriage.

After dating for four years and three months, journalist Antonio Medina, 38, and

economist Jorge Cerpa, 31 were united in front of the government offices for Mexico

City's Iztapalapa borough, signing documents under a banner that read ''Civil Union

Law: Your right to choose.''

Source: Associated Press