Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Despite Jalisco governor Aristóteles Sandoval indicating that he is not opposed to same sex unions, or gay marriage as it is most commonly known, same sex marriage is not yet legal in Jalisco.
The newly appointed governor failed to expand upon what was already a very vague statement and stopped short of committing himself to any palpable plan, date for review or description of exactly what same sex unions would look like in a state where a reported 80 percent of the community attends church at least once per month.
Despite his lack of a clear plan or timeliness the gay, lesbian and nascent gay divorce lawyer commonalities were cheered that the idea of gay marriage does not make the governor "physically sick" as it did his predecessor, according to an interview that received much coverage but little criticism.
Irrespective of the legality of marriage, Vallarta Pride organizers are holding a mass same sex commitment ceremony that is open to all couples regardless of gender or nationality.
The free event will be held at the Lido Beach Club on Saturday 25 May at 11:00 am and will be officiated by an American nondenominational minister. While the service will not legally unite the couples in attendance, the event is being held to give the LGBT community an opportunity to participate in a rite of passage that many take for granted.
The event will be held at the beachfront of Lido Beach Club and Restaurant on Los Muertos Beach in the Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta and will include a pre-ceremony reception from 11:00 to 11:45 am, with the mass commitment service following. Couples in attendance will be professionally photographed, receive a certificate of commitment and are welcome to enjoy the day at the trendy beach club.
To register: Provide both names on Vallarta Pride's event page or send a private message via Facebook. All registered couples will be entered into a draw to win a romantic weekend in Puerto Vallarta and a dinner for two in one of Vallarta's best restaurants.
To learn more about Vallarta Pride 2013, Click HERE or visit gaypv.mx.