Thousands March in Ciudad Juarez for LGBTQ+ Rights and Pride
Ciudad Juarez, June 22 – Under the slogan of maintaining the demand for equal rights, thousands of people took to the streets in the March for Affective-Sexual Diversities in Ciudad Juarez. “We are everywhere,” was the resounding message from the LGBTQI+ community as they once again marched for pride and to demand equal rights in the state of Chihuahua.
The communities of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transvestites, transgender, transsexuals, intersex, queer, and other sexual identities took to the streets of Ciudad Juarez to warn that they remain in the fight “until our rights and our diversity are respected.”
A Historic 22nd Edition of the March
“Today we celebrate the vindication and struggle for human rights,” said Adoniram Castruita, coordinator of Juárez Diverso, at the start of the 22nd edition of the March for Affective-Sexual Diversities. The event took place on the afternoon of Saturday, June 20, under intense heat that almost reached 40 degrees Celsius.
The contingent departed from Gregorio M. Solís street and 16 de Septiembre avenue, continuing along the latter towards the city center, on the east-to-west lanes, until Constitución street; there they continued south to take Vicente Guerrero avenue and finally reach the Plaza del Monumento a Benito Juárez.
The colors of diversity were carried on flags, balloons, face paint, and various parts of the body. Many traveled in vehicles, but the majority walked, some alongside their parents, children, friends, and pets. The organizers estimated the participation of 35,000 people.
United in the Struggle: A Message of Love and Resistance
The march was led by Mayte Regina Gardea, president of Unión y Fuerza de Mujeres Trans, who traveled from the city of Chihuahua to accompany the movement in Ciudad Juarez.
“The message I want to send from here to our state of Chihuahua and to many other states of the republic is that here we are in another march to fight for our rights, to show that we are love, to show that we are human beings,” Gardea expressed.
“We are going to give a lesson in struggle and resistance to the counter-march, that of the far-right, which is taking place at this moment in Chihuahua, where those of the National Action Party are… But, do you know the difference? That here we are from the heart,” she added, referring to the March for Life and Family, which was also held this Saturday in the state capital.
Before the contingent started, Georgette Lupone was crowned ambassador of the movement. “Diversity has always existed, and it is through education that we will ensure that all of us have to live in our society,” said the drag queen upon being crowned.
Growing Visibility and Future Endeavors
The increasing participation in the annual march underscores the growing visibility and determination of the LGBTQ+ community in Ciudad Juarez and beyond. Organizers emphasized the importance of continued advocacy and education to achieve full equality and acceptance.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico. The presence of families and allies further highlighted the widespread support for diversity and inclusion.
The successful turnout despite the challenging weather conditions demonstrated the unwavering commitment of participants to their cause, sending a clear message to authorities and society at large.
