Come on, would it really have been that hard for them to join the 60% of South Americans in countries with gay marriage?
Yes, Brazil makes 50% of South America, and if you take that country out just 22% percent of South Americans live in a country with same-sex marriage. Argentina and Uruguay are by far more liberals and progressive than most countries.
South America is very socially conservative and sadly the 'macho culture' is very strong. In chile just a few months ago the civil unions were legalized and I can tell you that a lot of people fought very hard just for that.
Although this is a small step, is in the right direction for a less bigoted region.