Italy approves same-sex marriage

Rome, May 12: The Italian parliament has approved same-sex marriages in a confidence vote, ensuring that the civil unions bill will become law. After the approval on Wednesday, landmarks across Rome from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain lit up in colours of the rainbow, representing the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender - LGBT community, to celebrate the historic decision, CNN reported. The vote was approved by 369-193. “It’s a day of celebration for many. For those who feel filly feel recognized,” Prime Minister Matteo Renzi wrote on his official Facebook page. “For those who had trouble sleeping tonight, for those who for days have wondered where to celebrate, for those who simply couldn’t wait anymore,” he added. Renzi made special mention of Alessia Bellini, a Florence councillor, who worked with the prime minister when he presided over the province. Bellini was openly homosexual and died in 2011 after losing her battle with cancer. (IANS)