BRAZILIAN PROSECUTOR CALLS FOR SSM: From the Associated Press

A well-known federal prosecutor said Wednesday he has asked a judge to order justices of the peace throughout Brazil to perform same-sex marriages.

Joao Gilberto Goncalves Jr. said he filed paperwork Tuesday asking a federal judge to issue a nationwide order -- a move likely to stir controversy in the world's largest predominantly Roman Catholic country.

"In addition to recognizing their rights as couples, the action is intended to help reduce the prejudice against homosexuals, which is a cause of violence in Brazil," Goncalves said.

If approved, the marriages would entitle gay couples to all the rights accorded heterosexual married couples, including inheritance and legal grounds to seek insurance benefits and pensions. ...

Brazil's Constitution specifies that marriage is a union between men and women, but Goncalves said "it does not make any restrictions against marriage between same-sex couples."

The Catholic Church has steadfastly opposed allowing gays to marry. Church officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In March, the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul became the first in Brazil to legalize civil unions between gays.

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posted by Eve at 2:12 AM VOTE

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