The main political parties in Sweden are set to pass a motion legalizing same-sex marriage in that country after May 1, 2009. The motion is facing opposition from one major political party, the Christian Democrats, but enjoys overwhelming support from the public and other political parties.
The motion reads in part, "Regardless of sexual orientation, people in stable couple
relationships have a need to manifest their feelings and their desire
to live together."
Going even further, Sweden is also likely to pass a law that would allow gay couples to marry in major churches, becoming the first country to do so.
– Andy
Being originally from Sweden myself as well as coming out as gay in Stockholm, I feel Sweden has always been at the forefront of being a progressive society. Homosexuality was removed from the list of mental illnesses in Sweden long before it was removed in the U.S.
Americans excessive puritanical views and narrow mindedness are one of the major drawbacks I find living in this country. Gender neutral marriage in Sweden for me is definately an appealing reason to move back if I were to be in a serious relationship. The attitudes of many Americans towards gays and gay marriage really scares me.
Bit of an odd law in terms of the churches. Nothing is legally preventing gay couple from getting married in churches here in Canada that are willing to marry them. (eg. the United Church).
I would disagree with legally obligating churches to marry gay couples for a couple of reasons. 1st, freedom of religion, which also includes freedom from religion. Catholics aren’t required to marry previously divorced people. Second, and more importantly, it gives unnecessary ammunition to the anti-gay marriage crowd who trumpet that their religious freedoms are being trampled (and in this case they’d be right).
Still, way to go Sweden! Here’s to the rest of the Scandies and maybe Australia joining too.