Post date: Jun 30, 2013 12:20:2 PM
R Reports - Tens of thousands paraded through Paris' streets on Saturday, celebrating the country's first "Gay Pride" festival since same-sex marriage was legalized.
Many like France's former Culture Minister Jack Lang say the move is a step in the right direction for equality.
FORMER FRENCH CULTURE MINISTER JACK LANG:
"I'm very happy that today we are numerous and also I am very happy because we have succeeded to accomplish this engagement for the equality between homo and hetero-sexuals."France became the 14th nation to legalize gay marriage in April, marking one of the biggest social reforms here since the death penalty was abolished in 1981.
Gay Pride is celebrated around the world, including Mexico City.
Here, thousands of marchers marked the occasion with music, dancing and calls for an end to discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community members.
Marchers in Lima, Peru echoed their message at their Gay Pride parade, featuring bright colours, costumes and feathers.
Many activists are hopeful recent strides in gay rights legislation in parts of Latin America mean attitudes are changing in the traditionally conservative region.