Canada Moves to OK Gay Unions

Prime Minister Paul Martin, a Roman Catholic who personally struggled with the issue, advocated it as a crucial protection for human rights, despite the country's deep divisions over the matter.

"We are a nation of minorities," Martin said. "And in a nation of minorities, it is important that you don't cherry-pick rights. A right is a right, and that is what this vote tonight is all about."

Alex Munter, national coordinator of Canadians for Equal Marriage, hailed the 158-133 vote. It was a "proud and exciting day to be a Canadian," he said.

Canada's Senate has to approve the bill for it to become law, but it is expected to pass the chamber quickly, probably by the end of July.

Nine of Canada's 13 provinces and territories already allow gay unions, and Martin said he wanted to ensure that no one encounters discrimination in the rest of the country. Belgium and the Netherlands already allow same-sex marriage, and similar legislation allowing civil unions has been passed in Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Norway, Portugal and Sweden.

The debate over equal rights for same-sex couples has simmered for years in Canada. The first application for a marriage license by a gay couple was made more than 30 years ago. In 2003, an Ontario court recognized the 2001 marriage of two Toronto bankers, Joe Varnell and Kevin Bourassa. Then, province by province, similar legal challenges carved out equal treatment for same-sex couples.

The issue gained momentum in December, when the Supreme Court ruled that the passage of gay-marriage legislation would not violate the constitution, allowing Martin's party to introduce the Civil Marriage Act in February. Tuesday's vote seemed to signal the end of the long-running, often bitter debate.

"This is a historical moment," Varnell said in an interview. "Canada is passing a test tonight. We're saying our constitution represents all Canadians, not just the majority."

Lawmakers were careful to ensure that religious officials who disagree with the law will not be compelled to preside over same-sex unions. The bill was also amended at the last minute to exempt nonprofit organizations from participating in the ceremonies. That provision was added after two lesbians sued the Knights of Columbus for refusing to play host to their wedding.