While 15 countries have legalised gay marriage and another three allow
it in some areas, homosexuals remain persecuted in many parts of the
world.
Gay couples across England and
Wales said “I do” Saturday as a law authorising same-sex marriage came
into effect at midnight, the final stage in a long fight for equality.
Following the first marriages
amid a supposed race to wed, Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted:
“Congratulations to all same-sex couples getting married today — I wish
you every possible happiness for the future.”
The Conservative party leader
also described the change as an “important moment for our country”, and
a rainbow flag flew above government offices in London in celebration.
In London, John Coffey, 52, and Bernardo Marti, 48, exchanged vows as
the clock struck midnight, before being pronounced "husband and
husband".
They were among several couples bidding to be first to take advantage of last year's Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act.
In
Brighton on England's south coast, Neil Allard and Andrew Wale(photo) exchanged vows and rings in the opulent splendour of the Royal Pavilion
in front of about 100 guests.
Wearing velvet-collared three-piece
suits with white flowers in their buttonholes, the smiling couple of
seven years hugged and kissed after sealing their marriage.
Source: Agencies
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