A new law took effect in Mexico City on March 16th allowing same-sex couples to unite in civil unions, giving them many of the social benefits such as property, pension and inheritance rights that are enjoyed by heterosexual married couples. The civil union law does not, however, allow the couples to adopt children. The Catholic Church in Mexico has spoken out strongly against the law, and the conservative party of President Felipe Calderon is challenging in court a similar law that took effect in January in the state of Coahuila.
For more details, see:
Mexico City's law on civil unions draws mixed reaction (Noticias Oaxaca)
Gay couple tie knot in first Mexico City civil unions (Washington Post)
First gay couple unites in Mexico City (SF Gate)
