The first same-sex couples said yes today in Switzerland, which officially adopted marriage for all in a referendum less than a year ago.
Among the first newlyweds, Aline, 46, and Laure, 45, who have been a couple for the past 21 years, said “I do” under the imposing ceilings of the Palais Einardo in Geneva.
Aline and Laure, who arrived with 12 friends at City Hall, held each other’s hands during the ceremony and exchanged wishes accompanied by memories of their long relationship and love.
“It is with great pleasure that I announce to you that you are officially married,” said Marie Barbet-Sapuy, the mayor of Geneva who wanted to personally perform this first historic wedding.
The two newlyweds kissed, as tradition would have it, to the warm applause of those present.
“It’s very moving. It’s a very powerful moment which sends an equally powerful message to society: that of being free to love and be loved,” the mayor told AFP.
“The symbolism is particularly intense, as is the emotion, of course,” he added.
“It was high time in Switzerland that marriage became completely equal,” the mayor emphasized, insisting on the historical side for the country and for the institution of marriage itself.
The Swiss voted a resounding yes in favor of marriage for all in a referendum on September 21, 2021, handing a crushing defeat to its opponents, who want to see it as a threat to child welfare.
Yes had collected 64.1% of the votes and all cantons in the country, including the most conservative ones who voted in favor.
Switzerland was one of the last countries in western Europe to take this step.
Although same-sex couples have already been able to enter into a cohabitation agreement in the country since 2007, the new bill gives them new rights and specifically provides that same-sex couples can adopt a child together.
Source: Capital
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