This meeting marked a significant step toward a more equal and just 2024, laying the groundwork for an agenda that reflects the needs and rights of gay and bisexual men in Mexico.
The energy and determination were evident, demonstrating that, through unity and collective action, challenges can be overcome to create a more inclusive and respectful society.
This weekend, more than 70 activists from 25 Mexican states gathered in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, for the National Meeting for the Platform of Gay and Bisexual Rights 2024-2030, a historic event aiming to form a unified agenda for the defense and promotion of the rights of the gay and bisexual community, both cisgender and transgender, in Mexico.
The meeting, which took place at the Hotel Catedral San Cristóbal de las Casas, featured the participation of prominent LGBTQ+ activists, including Simón Cazal, the Secretary-General of the Red Gay Latino, and other activists and experts, such as Polo Gómez from Condomóvil. It focused on critical topics such as health, employment, education, political participation, justice, culture, and the rights of indigenous and migrant populations, among others.
Participants worked in thematic sessions, discussing strategies, and proposing concrete initiatives, all in a collaborative effort to overcome the barriers imposed by patriarchy, sexism, colonialism, and racism that continue to affect the community. The importance of influencing the political platforms of candidates for the 2024 elections was also emphasized.
The event also served as a platform for the presentation of the book “La curiosidad mató al Macho” (Curiosity Killed the Macho) by Russell Manzo and concluded with the first National March for the Dignity and Memory of Sexual and Gender Diversity in Mexico.
This meeting marked a significant step toward a more equal and just 2024, laying the groundwork for an agenda that reflects the needs and rights of gay and bisexual men in Mexico. The energy and determination were palpable, demonstrating that, through unity and collective action, challenges can be overcome to create a more inclusive and respectful society.
In addition to the working sessions and discussion panels, the meeting provided a platform to share personal and collective experiences. Activists from across the country shared their stories, challenges, and victories in the fight for equal rights. These narratives not only strengthened the sense of community among the participants but also underscored the urgency of the cause and the need for tangible change in Mexican society.
One of the key objectives of the event was the creation of the Gay and Bisexual Men’s Rights Agenda Mexico 2024-2030, a strategic document aimed at guiding public policies and civil society initiatives in the coming years. This agenda, developed through consensus and contributions from all present, is a call to action for political, social, and cultural leaders in the country, emphasizing the need to advance issues related to equality, non-discrimination, access to health, inclusive education, security, and justice for all.
The weather in San Cristóbal de las Casas, though temperate and rainy, could not dampen the spirits of the participants. On the contrary, the inclement weather served as a reminder that, despite the obstacles, resilience and solidarity can help the community overcome any challenge. The organizers and participants adapted and carried out the planned activities with enthusiasm and determination.
The culmination of the event was the march for the dignity and memory of sexual and gender diversity, a powerful demonstration of LGBTQ+ community solidarity and visibility. Citizens of San Cristóbal and event participants marched together, reaffirming their commitment to fight for a society where everyone is treated with equality and respect.
As participants bid farewell to San Cristóbal de las Casas, a sense of hope was palpable. While everyone acknowledged that there is still much work to be done, the meeting catalyzed future actions and collaborations. The bonds formed and the strategies developed during this weekend will not only remain in the memories of those present but are expected to resonate throughout Mexico as the country moves toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
During the National Meeting for the Platform of Gay and Bisexual Rights, crucial issues reflecting the challenges and needs of the gay and bisexual community in Mexico were addressed. Here are the highlighted topics:
1. Health: Emphasis was placed on the importance of universal access to health services, including the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other STIs, as well as the promotion of sexual and mental health within the gay and bisexual community.
2. Employment: Discussions revolved around employment opportunity disparities, the need for inclusive and discrimination-free work environments, and the promotion of equality policies in hiring and employment.
3. Education: The need for educational programs that promote tolerance and inclusion, the importance of comprehensive sex education, and the fight against homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools were highlighted.
4. Participation and Political Representation: Analysis centered on increasing the representation of gay and bisexual individuals in public and political offices and involving this community in the political process to ensure that their voices are heard, and their rights are protected.
5. Security and Justice: Topics included the rise in hate crimes against LGBTQ+ community members, the need for legal systems that adequately protect victims of these crimes, and equitable access to justice.
6. Sports: Inclusion in sports, combating discrimination, and promoting the participation of gay and bisexual individuals in sports events at all levels were discussed.
7. Culture: The importance of cultural representation, promoting the visibility of gays and bisexuals in media, the arts, and popular culture, and combating negative stereotypes were emphasized.
8. Migrants: Specific challenges faced by gay and bisexual migrants, including access to services, legal protection, and discrimination, were discussed.
9. Indigenous Communities: the intersection of identities and the additional challenges faced by LGBTQ+ community members in indigenous communities were recognized, promoting respect for cultural and sexual diversity within these communities.
Each of these topics was explored through working sessions, discussion panels, and presentations, to formulate strategies and recommendations that will be incorporated into the Gay and Bisexual Men’s Rights Agenda for 2024-2030.