Mexican Consulates Will Now Perform Same-Sex Weddings

Mexico's foreign affairs secretary issued an order on Friday to the country's consulates around the world that they must allow all citizens, regardless of gender identity, to marry in their offices.

Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard stated that a democratic country could not be built by excluding part of society, according to the Associated Press.

There are more than a dozen Mexican states including the country's capitol -- Mexico City -- that have legalized same-sex marriages. Courts within other states have allowed it for individual cases after petitions are filed.

Mexican Supreme Court ruled in June 2015 that same-sex marriage bans are unconstitutional. The court's ruling is considered a "jurisprudential thesis" and does not invalidate state laws, but allowed for individuals to petition for marriage.

Legislation to federalize access to marriage across the country has been proposed.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry office says the change was announced in anticipation of Friday's International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.