In pictures: Thousands rally in Paris for gay marriage

Tens of thousands of people marched in Paris on Dec 16 in support of the so-called “Marriage and adoption for all” bill, which seeks to extend rights to same-sex couples and is being championed by France’s ruling Socialist government. (Credit: P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

The word “equality” was ubiquitous at the pro-gay marriage rally. But some people struck a more humorous tone: “With two gay dads, no more badly dressed kids” reads the sign on the left. (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Prominent cultural and political figures joined the march. Jean-Michel Ribes, the director of the Théâtre du Rond-Point said that as a straight man he was “stunned” by anti-gay marriage protests that have also rallied thousands across France. (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Paris mayor Bertrand Delanoë, who is openly gay and publicly called on supporters to join the march, said artificial insemination for lesbian mothers was an important part of the draft bill. “It establishes equality for all women”, he said. (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Roselyne Bachelot, a former cabinet minister and member of the conservative UMP party: "I am not here as an ex-minister or as a heterosexual, but as a citizen... I am sorry the right has found unity in opposing this bill.” (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Journalist Caroline Fourest was assaulted during an anti-gay marriage march on Nov 18. “Most people say the law will pass, but it’s too early to celebrate. Adoption rights and access to artificial insemination are threatened,” she said (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Pierre Bergé, a French businessman and the partner of the late fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent, is a long-time gay rights activist. “Homosexuals are not a community, they are citizens covered by the Declaration of Human Rights.” (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Patrick Sanguinetti, co-president of the faith-based group David and Jonathan: “We are practicing Catholics and practicing homosexuals. We refuse to leave the Church and refuse to remain silent when ecclesiastical authorities say brutal things.” (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Lawyer Camille Magdelaine came to the march with her husband and son. “What if our child grows up to be gay? We would want him to have the same rights as everyone else,” she said. (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Christelle travelled to Paris from eastern France with her same-sex partner and their two children for the march. “Our children have never heard an unpleasant remark at school. It’s on TV that they have discovered hatred against homosexuals.” (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Natalia Klein: “I’ve never been to a march before. I'm straight but I support this cause. It is normal that gays want to marry and enjoy the same rights. I am here out of solidarity with people I know.” (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)

Same-sex couple Delphine and Saadia, were surrounded by their friends during the march. “This is incredible. So many of our friends, especially heterosexuals, have come out to support us. They are crazy about our month-old son,” they said. (P. Lafitte / FRANCE 24)