Canarias is a place that embraces diversity and fosters open-mindedness. It is a land that welcomes new realities and celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. In this spirit, the Government of Canarias has launched Canarias Orgullosa, a space dedicated to equality and diversity, aimed at bringing together various activities to celebrate LGBTI Pride.
Canarias Orgullosa serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate the diverserealities of the LGBTI community in the islands. Through engaging talks, informative courses, digital materials, and exciting contests, the initiative seeks to share, dialogue, and amplify the experiences, concerns, and demands of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, trans, and intersex individuals in the Canarian community.
The archipelago of Canarias is composed of a vibrant tapestry of identities, which defines us as a curious and open society, eager to embrace new perspectives. From this inclusive space, Canarias Orgullosa encourages open and fruitful dialogue among diverse communities, while proudly celebrating the enduring presence of sexual diversity within theislands.
We invite everyone to participate in the various initiatives and get to know the different associations that provide a voice for the LGTBI collective across the islands. Because in Canarias, we are proud of who you are, whoever you may be and whomever you love.
Recognizing the important role of lesbians, gays, and transgender individuals in Canarian culture, both in the past and present, is the primary objective of the third edition of Canarias Orgullosa. As explained by Sylvia Jaén, Vice-Counselor for Equality and Diversity of the Government of Canarias, it is time to move beyond mere visibilityand give more substance to this campaign. The initiative aims to showcase the LGTBI community members who have been, are, and will continue to be strong pillars of the Canarian community.
As part of the campaign, the book ‘Canarias Orgullosa’ has been published, featuring profiles of twelve artists from various creative fields, ranging from performance art to poetry. The book highlights their contributions and achievements, providing insight into their artistic journeys.
Additionally, Canarias Orgullosa issparking conversations about sexual diversity within the prison system through the theatrical monologue ‘Mi nombre es Octavio García’ (My name is Octavio García). The performance portrays how attitudes towards the LGTBI community in the archipelago have evolved from the Franco era to the present day.
Despite the recent rise of the far-right, this edition of Canarias Orgullosa does not specifically focus on protecting the rights of gays, lesbians, and transgender individuals against these political shifts. However, the initiative’s purpose remains steadfast: to raise visibility and empower the LGTBI community. The Vice-Counselor emphasized her confidence in the Canarian population, expressing belief that they will defend their rights and ensure the continuityof a life of dignity and equality.
In this new political context, Canarias once again positions itself as a beacon of hope in the fight for human rights and LGTBI rights. The archipelago will continue to champion diversity, equality, and the pursuit of asociety that embraces everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
