France’s same-sex marriage debate continues to draw fierce opposition from religious and conservative groups, with thousands taking part in rallies on Sunday and Monday.
But for Bruno Boileau and Vincent Autin, the fight has already been won.
The pair, after more than five years together, will exchange vows on Wednesday – the first couple to marry under the country’s newly-passed law allowing same-sex marriage.
Autin told Agence-France Presse the ceremony will be “an occasion for everyone.” France 24 reports 600 people are expected to attend.
The 40-year-old gay activist said being allowed to marry his 30-year-old party is just the first step to having the same rights as heterosexual couples.
“We’re very aware that we won’t have the child we both want right away,” he said referring to their dream to adopt. “Mentalities have to change.”
France became the 14th country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage on May 18, when President Francois Hollande signed the bill into law.
Just days before the first wedding was legally allowed to be performed, an estimated 150,000 people took to the streets of Paris, on Sunday, in a demonstration against the laws.
Police arrested dozens of far-right activists, after officers were attacked with bottles and smoke flares, Deutsche Welle reported.
Five thousand police officers were on hand to deal with the crowds.
Although the doors are open to anyone — including politicians, activists and members of the public — Autin and Boileau’s nuptials will be held in the south coast city of Montpelier.
Comments