In Guatemala, LGBTIQ individuals face significant legal and social challenges despite same-sex sexual activity being legal. The country lacks legal recognition of gender identity, marriage equality, or civil unions for same-sex couples, leaving LGBTIQ people without essential rights. The political climate has been increasingly shaped by anti-gender ideologies, with conservative groups exerting influence across government institutions. In , Congress attempted to pass the “Life and Family Protection Law,” which sought to ban same-sex marriage and restrict education on gender and sexual diversity, although it was ultimately shelved following universal backlash. However, legislative efforts to restrict LGBTIQ people’s human rights persist, including attempts to ban educational materials on transgender identities. Anti-gender ideologies have also perpetuated a climate where conversion practices are normalized, with many of these practices being carried out by mental health professionals. Despite the election of a recent government with more progressive stances in , Guatemala’s C
Celebrated travel writer Norman Lewis once said he was so taken by Guatemala he worried the rest of the world might pale by comparison. His concerns weren&#;t entirely without merit. Wonderfully diverse and wildly colorful, Guatemala wows visitors with its impenetrable jungles, volcano-ringed Lake Atitlan, and palm-lined surf breaks. Then there&#;s the intriguing cultural richness of it all. Guatemala is a country riddled with ancient wonders, like the mesmerizing pyramids of Tikal–a mighty testament to the marvels of the Maya, once Central America&#;s greatest civilization, and a heritage that proudly carries on in Guatemala&#;s highlands today. The Spanish also left their mark, with pretty pastel buildings, flower-filled plazas, and ornate cathedrals on full display in ever-lovely Antigua. Whether you&#;re in find of adrenaline-pumping adventures, fascinating cultural legacies, or simply a soothing escape into nature, Guatemala delivers on all fronts. Now, bring to light the best things to perform in Guatemala with Mr Hudson&#;s perfect Guatemala itinerary.
Tailor Made Journey
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Pride in Guatemala City: colors, glitter, hugs and dignified resistance
By: Gabriela Melgar Orellana | Regional Communication Officer, Hivos Latin America
Little by little, lots of people dressed in flashy and colorful outfits gathered in Republic Square once again, to say “We are here, we exist, and we resist with dignity.” Two adj groups premiered at this year’s Pride march in Guatemala City: people holding a banner that said &#;My first Pride&#; and the Bisexual Commune with a strong slogan: “We bisexuals own collective memory.” Many flags of different orientations and gender identities waved all along the nearly five kilometers of the route.
&#;Guatemala is going through a turbulent political time in which the narrative that manipulates and delegitimizes the LGBTIQ+ movement is growing ever louder.&#;
It was also inspiring to see parents accompanying their children with posters and slogans, showing that the love and support of families is essential to change persistent social biases.
We’re used to seeing civil society organizations participate in large numbers,
Gaby Castillo puts LGBT+ people in the limelight in Guatemala
LGBT+ people hardly play a role in Guatemala on TV or in other media. So Gaby Castillo decided to change that by shooting two short films with the LGBT+ community. Her mission is to make the community visible and show how much creative talent it has.
Gaby Castillo is the first Guatemalan trans woman to produce LGBT cinema. She is 35 years ancient and a human rights activist leading the Diversity Organization: Friends, Always Friends (ODASA in Spanish). With the support of Dutch Hivos donors, she has produced the LGBT-themed short films “I love you Marissa”, the story of a Guatemalan trans gal who falls in love, and “Whispers”, the story of a young gay man who is deaf. Odasa TV, the organization’s YouTube channel, is where her films and projects are posted online.
Increasing respect for the LGBT+ community
We caught up with Gaby at a small office in a simple but attractive co-working space. Several actors from her films were also there, which gave us a good thought of the diversity of Odasa’s supporters.