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Andrés Sebastián León Hernández, a young 20-year-old barber/stylist and trans activist from Puerto Vallarta, recently (September 20 to 23, 2023), attended the course-workshop “International political advocacy and work with the media for LGBTI+ activists” in Mexico City.
This event was designed with the goal of strengthening skills and capabilities in international political advocacy and media management, specifically for Mexican organizations committed to the defense of LGBTI+ rights.
Sebastián is not only a defender of rights, but also a living testament of resistance and the fight against transphobia and discrimination.
The intention was to provide essential tools that would enable the visibility and positioning of the LGBTI+ agenda in UN intergovernmental forums and spaces.
Sebastián is not only a defender of rights, but also a living testament of resistance and the fight against transphobia and discrimination.
Despite the challenges and adversities that interrupted his secondary education, he has emerged as a tireless fighter, especially for transmasculinities, with the fervent desire to create safe and respectful spaces for all.
Sebastián attended the workshop on behalf of MOVii, Movement for Equality in Mexico, an organization dedicated to training, communication and lobbying in favor of equality and diversity.
MOVii works tirelessly to foster inclusion and ensure that the voices of the LGBTI+ community are heard, respected and taken into account at all levels of society and government.
During the course-workshop, participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves in deeply relevant and current topics, exchanging experiences and knowledge about the Equal Rights Coalition (ERC), the Organization of American States, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Agenda 2030, and roles as special rapporteur and independent expert.
In addition, various problems facing Mexico and the specific challenges faced by the LGBTI+ community were explored.
Sebastián, with passion and determination, shared his dreams and desires. He expressed his vision of a future where there is accessibility to gender-affirming treatments, where hate speech is eradicated and social acceptance and respect are the norm. He identified ignorance as the root problem and stressed the importance of education and understanding.
Finally, Sebastián left everyone present a message of hope and perseverance: «Thank you for the safe and beautiful space that was given to us, influencing people so dedicated and motivated by this fight filled me with energy to continue, thank you all for “Support youth and believe in ourselves, because together we are stronger.”
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
