Whether it’s working from home or participating in conferences that host thousands of attendees, the novel coronavirus has forced the world to become virtually virtual. This year, AHF’s Latin America and Caribbean bureau seized that opportunity to take its annual Pride events to fully digital platforms with informative online sessions that attracted more than 17,000 viewers!
Three hour-long Zoom sessions featured AHF experts, activists and influencers from eight different countries and were broadcast simultaneously in Spanish and Portuguese on Facebook throughout 10 countries.
“Even though COVID-19 has presented challenges for everyone globally, the fight for equality and access to HIV/AIDS care and treatment for LGBT+ communities is not something that can be postponed,” said AHF Latin America and the Caribbean Marketing and PR Director Sergio Lagarde Moguel. “By harnessing the power of digital media, we were still able to reach thousands of people with vital advocacy messages that inspired and educated.”
The virtual sessions addressed key issues that LGBT+ community members often face, including access to healthcare, LGBT+ rights under the law in a growing authoritarian age and personal stories that span four decades of activism surrounding Pride events.
“We are in great need of a legal framework for gender diversity law so public policies can be implemented and protect the LGBTQ community,” said Jana Villayzan, Director of RED Trans Peru. “At the time when healthcare systems are exhausted with COVID-19 patients, other services such as HIV treatment are being left behind. Access to healthcare is not complete as long as members of the transgender community are being singled out and treated as fourth class citizens.”
Reflecting on her experiences at the first Pride march she attended, AHF Mexico Country Program Manager Nicole Finkelstein added, “I realized how biased I was about what happened there. I brought with me the stigma that the march was about getting naked on the streets. Only after attending did I realize that in order to change things we need to work for our rights. Starting at home, and even by attending Pride marches, one can fight and represent those who cannot be there.”
We invite our Spanish-speaking audience to view videos of the recorded Pride sessions below and be sure to share them with your family and friends!
Access of the LGBTQI + population to health services in the context of the global crisis.
LGBT Rights and Authoritarianism in Latin America. LGBTQ + culture: from resistance to survival.
Four decades Pride Marches in Latin America. Tell us your story!
