A historic development took place in Latin America’s largest country just a few days ago. Casting a groundbreaking decision in favor of equality and civility, Brazil’s Supreme Court legally recognized homosexual civil unions in the nation.
Ten out of the country’s 11 Justices were present for the ruling, which involved two LGBT civil rights cases. The unanimous verdict states that partners in same-sex unions have the same rights as heterosexual unions.
According to Justice Ellen Gracie:
“The recognition made by the court today responds to the rights of a group of people who has long been humiliated, whose rights have been ignored, whose dignity has been offended, whose identity was denied, and whose freedom was overwhelmed.”
The decision has enormous implications for same-sex couples, who will now have access to the same rights that heterosexual couples have long enjoyed, including rights of inheritance, tax deductions, adoptions and immigration.