Courtesy of JMS / Globovisión/EFE

Jenna Boures

Staff Writer
@jboures

A court ruling in the Tuscan town of Grosseto marks a major milestone for Italian LGBT citizens.

The town recently recognized the marriage of Stefano Bucci and Giuseppe Chigiotti,  were married in the U.S. in 2012. AFP reports that the couple also wanted their union to be recognized in their home country.

Grosseto’s ruling has caused some backlash due to Italy’s traditional ways. Advocate.com explained, “Marriage equality is not legal in Italy, and the influence of the Catholic Church there is significant,” making it difficult for members of the LGBT community to find acceptance.

Angelo Basnasco, president of the Italian Bishops Conference said that ruling in favor of the couple would “sweep away the fundamental pillars of the institution of marriage,” The Local reported.

According to Reuters, state prosecutors in Grosseto plan to appeal the ruling. Nevertheless, recognizing a gay marriage is still a big step forward for Italy.

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