The News had the opportunity to speak with the director of the civil organization Yaaj Iván Tagle Durand, and asked him about the past, present and future for the LGBTQ movement in Mexico.
What has been the biggest moment for the LGBTQ movement in Mexico?
One of the most important moments for the LGBTQ movement in Mexico has been the struggle of those that took to the streets for the first time in our country, drawing attention and demanding equal rights. This has helped people feel empowered, take to the streets, accept their sexuality and get involved in activities that can help combat discrimination.
How authentic is the LGBTQ movement in Mexico, and what does it borrow from the LGBTQ movement in the U.S.?
The LGBTQ movement in Mexico is as authentic as it is diverse, there are many social movements within this community, some have different messages. The only common denominator amongst us is the discrimination that we suffer because of our sexuality and/or our gender identity. Beyond that, our needs, experiences and realities are completely diverse. This is what makes this movement authentic. Finding common ground has been a challenge that we have been able to overcome at pivotal times for us. In the end, this is a movement that fights for diversity in every way.
On an international level, advocacy groups in other countries have allowed Mexico to generalize and adapt experiences on strategic litigation that make the legal process easier. It’s important to point out that various activity from different countries have played a part in international organizations, which facilitates the struggle for human rights.
Have we copied other countries and this in turn makes the movement in Mexico less authentic? The answer is no. We have been able to coordinate with every other country and create agendas that help the internal procedures in each country.
Going forward, which is the most important aspect to tackle for the LGBTQ community in Mexico?
For us, the most important issue is sexual education in our country, because we understand the importance of working with the younger generations in order to affect change at every level.