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Pan American experiences
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Can a gay person be powerful in Latin America? Role models in times of changeBy Estefanía Muriel for Ruta Pantera on 9/11/2025 9:19:17 PM |
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| In a region where homophobia still permeates institutions, politics, and popular culture, the question seems daunting. However, in recent years, Latin America has witnessed a silent but profound transformation: LGBTIQ+ people have emerged as leaders, activists, artists, and entrepreneurs who not only challenge stereotypes but also redefine what it means to be powerful in a continent marked by inequality. From invisibility to visibility: a paradigm shift Historically, gay people in Latin America have been relegated to the margins of society. Discrimination, violence, and social exclusion have been constant, even in countries with significant legislative advances. For example, in Mexico, discrimination against the queer population is twice as frequent as discrimination against the non-queer population ( Friedrich Naumann Foundation ). However, this landscape is changing. The visibility of LGBTIQ+ people has increased, and with it, their influence in various fields, from politics to entertainment. |The visibility of LGBTIQ+ people has increased, and with it, their influence in various fields. Photo: Alexandra Koch/Pixabay. Role models: leaders who inspire Bianka Rodríguez: struggle and resilience from El Salvador Bianka Rodríguez, a Salvadoran trans activist and director of Comcavis Trans El Salvador, is a model of courage and commitment. In a country where the life expectancy for trans people is only 33 years, Rodríguez has been a staunch voice in defense of LGBTIQ+ rights, denouncing institutional violence and the lack of inclusive policies ( El País ). Claudia López: pioneer in Colombian politics In 2019, Claudia López made history by becoming the first woman and openly LGBTQ+ person elected mayor of Bogotá, Colombia's capital. Her campaign, focused on fighting corruption and promoting inclusive policies, resonated with a citizenry eager for change. Despite criticism for the lack of specific proposals for the LGBTQ+ community, her election represented a symbolic milestone in Latin American politics ( Victory Institute, 2019) . Lorena Duarte: An Interrupted Legacy Lorena Duarte, former director of LGBTIQ+ rights at Colombia's Ministry of Equality, was removed from her position under circumstances many consider unfair and humiliating. Her departure sparked deep disenchantment within the LGBTI movement, highlighting internal tensions and a lack of continuity in inclusion policies ( El País ). | ||||
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Antillean Villain: Revolution through Rap Puerto Rican artist Villano Antillano has burst onto the music scene with a unique style that fuses rap with messages of queer empowerment. Recognized as the first prominent trans woman in Latin rap, her music addresses themes of identity, resilience, and pride. Her success demonstrates how culture can be a powerful tool for challenging norms and building inclusive communities ( Them, 2023 ). The power of representation: beyond politics LGBTIQ+ representation in the media, culture, and business has also grown. People like Apple CEO Tim Cook and Prezi founder Peter Arvai have demonstrated that sexual orientation doesn***t limit professional success ( Entrepreneur ). In Latin America, figures like trans actress Fucksia Diali, who performed during a Gay Pride parade in Asunción, Paraguay, represent a new generation of artists using their platform to promote inclusion and diversity. Persistent Challenges: The Struggle Continues Despite progress, significant challenges remain. Violence against LGBTIQ+ people is a daily reality in many countries in the region. According to the 2024 annual report by Sin Violencia LGBTIQ+, institutional violence and hate crimes continue to be a constant threat to the community ( sinviolencia.lgbt ). | |||
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