Brazil's highest court will begin hearing arguments Thursday over whether the South American country should offer civil unions to its lesbian and gay citizens.
The lawsuit was filed by Rio state Gov. Sergio Cabral, who wanted to grant rights and benefits to all state employees as well as employees of the attorney general's office, according to the AFP.
Additionally, Atty. Gen. Roberto Gurgel supports legalizing civil unions.
Brazil would be the second country in South America to recognize same-sex relationships after Argentina legalized marriage equality. Uruguay is also considering legalizing marriage equality.
Cindy Ord/Getty Images
