CNN PRODUCER NOTE     jcross12345 is an American student studying in Paris, France. She attended a same-sex parade in the city on January 27, and was told that it was in response to an anti-gay rally that happened in Paris a week before. 'The streets were packed,' she said. 'This week the French Parliament is going to debate a bill which will allow gay marriage on a national level.'

She says the atmosphere at the parade was positive and hopeful. 'Everyone also was very grateful that President Hollande brought this legislation to the table,' she said. She says she participated in the parade as well. ‘Although I am not gay myself, I am a member of my school's rugby team back in the U.S. After getting to know the lesbian members of my team, I really began empathize and support their struggle for equality,' she said.
- Jareen, CNN iReport producer