Cubans have voted to approve a new “family code” that legally allows same-sex couples to marry and adopt children.
The Communist nation’s 100-page code is considered extremely progressive for Latin America.
President Miguel Diaz-Canel said it abolishes prejudices and taboos that have been ingrained in Cuban society.
State media reports two-thirds of the population voted for the new laws.
They also expand protections for women, children and the elderly and allow surrogate pregnancies.
Catholic Bishops and Cuban Evangelicals actively campaigned against same-sex marriage.
Commentators speculate that’s why the referendum did not receive the near-total support typical of government-backed proposals in Cuba.
The Christian Post reports Cuban Christians face constant government surveillance and infiltration despite the faith growing on the island.
The government amended its Constitution in 1992, declaring it a secular state instead of an atheist state, partially allowing religious activities.
However, the communist regime continues to persecute Christians.
The referendum was held amid the country’s worst economic crisis in 30 years, marked by shortages of food, gas and medicine.
