Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The mayor of Puerto Vallarta, Professor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, led an event on Wednesday to raise the LGBTIQ+ flag on the main balcony of the municipal presidency. This gesture signifies the city council's support for the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, demonstrating their commitment to respecting human rights and diversity.
The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is observed to commemorate the removal of homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses by the World Health Organization (WHO) General Assembly on May 17, 1990. This day not only recognizes the efforts of those who have fought for the acceptance of diversity and the human rights of individuals irrespective of their sexual orientation and gender identity but also aims to foster a culture of inclusivity, eliminate discrimination, and promote the recognition of LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.
Councilor Claudia Iñiguez Rivera, president of the Justice and Human Rights Commission and a prominent advocate for this initiative, expressed her joy at "taking these significant steps towards the visibility of the LGBT community." She acknowledged that such progress would not have been possible without the work and dedication of numerous individuals who have made Puerto Vallarta their new home and who embrace the city's inclusive spirit.
While society has become more open on various issues, the acceptance of sexual diversity remains challenging for many. Nevertheless, the councilor emphasized their commitment to continue working towards creating a city that celebrates diversity, fosters respect for all individuals, and is free from prejudice. The mayor echoed these sentiments, stating that they aspire to build a Vallarta that is not only a welcoming tourist destination but also genuinely embraces and respects its LGBTQ+ community.
This commemoration also serves as a tribute to those who have fought for LGBTQ+ rights and lost their lives in tragic and hateful incidents. It honors those who continue to champion inclusivity and safety, aiming to make all spaces in Vallarta inclusive. The event was attended by councilors, municipal trustees, officials, and social activists, with the participation of Edgar Treviño, an actor, playwright, and LGBTQ+ activist, who reminisced about the beginnings of the movement in Puerto Vallarta 25 years ago.
Treviño recalled the struggles against persecution faced by the community, including the fight to eliminate legal sanctions against homosexuality. These past 25 years have seen bloodshed, imprisonment, and individuals losing their jobs solely due to their sexual orientation. It is essential not to forget the history of this movement, which is rooted in human rights rather than politics. Despite achieving significant progress after years of perseverance, the fight is far from over, and younger generations are encouraged to actively contribute and advocate for further change.
Héctor Gabriel Ramírez Betancourt, a member of the Vallarta LGBT Collective and a dedicated human rights promoter, urged the new generations not to remain complacent, as there is still much work to be done. He emphasized the need for continued education and awareness to bring about lasting change.
Luis Daniel Estrada Jiménez, president of the Vallarta LGBT Collective, expressed his gratitude to the city council for their initiative. He highlighted the progress made in sexual education after 25 years of advocating for sexual diversity. However, he acknowledged that there is still a long way to go to secure the rights of all individuals.
In addition to the municipal presidency, the LGBTIQ+ flag was also raised in other public spaces in Puerto Vallarta, including El Pitillal square and Lázaro Cárdenas and Hidalgo parks. Authorities and activists delivered messages during these ceremonies, dedicating each flag hoisting to those who have actively contributed to the visibility of sexual diversity.
