Cuernavaca´s 7th annual Gay Pride parade last Saturday rounded out week-long celebrations and events that raised awareness about LGBTQ issues. Its main claim was to endorse the legalization of same sex marriages in Cuernavaca and around the country as they are in Mexico City.
Diversity week was filled to the brim with speakers, musicians, and theatre. Each day different activities took place in various locations throughout the city. Speakers and roundtable discussions focused 
on topics such as homophobia in Latin America, the prevention of AIDS, the new structures of families including gay adoptive parents, and the legalization of same-sex marriage in Mexico City.
on topics such as homophobia in Latin America, the prevention of AIDS, the new structures of families including gay adoptive parents, and the legalization of same-sex marriage in Mexico City. The highlight of the week was the presence of congresswoman and lesbian activist Enoe Uranga who was responsible for the passing of same-sex marriages in Mexico City. She talked about the challenges this type of legislation presents in a country that has been ruled by the extreme right for over a decade and influenced by the Catholic Church for centuries.
Diversity Week has grown immensely since its inception seven years ago, largely due to the ongoing efforts of Antonio´s organization called Grupo CD4 and other LGBTQ activists. Congratulations and great work, Antonio!
Diversity Week has grown immensely since its inception seven years ago, largely due to the ongoing efforts of Antonio´s organization called Grupo CD4 and other LGBTQ activists. Congratulations and great work, Antonio!
Saturday, the day of the march, Chloe, Lisa, Ka, and I went to the meeting place for the beginning of the walk. The march was an incredible experience. It was definitely cool to be in a city that is full of Catholicism everywhere you turn become a place with streets filled with men in drag, same sex couples openly showing their affection, and absolutely no free space anywhere because so many people came out either to march in the parade or show their support from the sides. I was in shock at how many people came out to support the cause, and did not see anyone or anything that seemed to be in opposition to the event. It was just an awesome atmosphere for everyone to be themselves and show their love. It’s definitely a great experience when you feel out of place because you aren’t wearing fishnets or wings of some fashion (although all of us had shown up in various rainbow gear in the spirit of the event). The walk ended at the zocalo, which was filled with various spectacles such as breakdance circles, an exhibition of traditional Aztec dancing, and then the main stage from which the speeches were presented, as well as a drag show. Attending the pride march (as well as other Diversity Week events) was one of the most meaningful things I have done in Cuernavaca, and it was also the perfect way to end our first full week in Mexico. It was encouraging to see so many people coming together to support one cause, and also to receive the support of CEMAL staff, such as Antonio and Anita, who kept us informed and greeted us at the different events. This is one experience that I will never forget!
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