Uruguay’s Diversity March Tests New Left-Wing Government

In a vibrant display of solidarity and activism, Uruguay’s 2025 Diversity March took place on September 26th in Montevideo. Organized under the rallying cry “If there are rights, let it be known,” thousands gathered to advocate for LGBTQ rights, celebrating both achievements and pressing demands against the backdrop of a newly established left-wing government led by President Yamandú Orsi.

The march began at Plaza Libertad and concluded at Plaza 1er de Mayo, blending festivity with serious advocacy. Nicolás Oreiro, spokesperson for Colectivo Ovejas Negras and coordinator of the event, emphasized key demands: implementing a public sector job quota for trans, Afro, and disabled individuals; ensuring compliance with the Comprehensive Trans Law by health institutions; and bolstering support through Uruguay’s Social Card program for vulnerable transgender communities.

Oreiro commended President Orsi’s administration for creating dialogues previously denied under former President Luis Lacalle Pou. Yet, he cautioned that promises must be backed by concrete policies to ensure real progress. Despite Uruguay’s progressive legal framework, including the landmark Comprehensive Law for Transgender People, financial and political support remains lacking.

Human Rights Secretary Collette Spinetti acknowledged the government’s efforts to rebuild trust with LGBTQ communities through dialogue-centric initiatives like “En Cada Territorio, Más Derechos” (More Rights in Every Territory) and “Territorios Diversos en Diálogo” (Diverse Territories in Dialogue). These programs aim to address local needs by involving civil society, academia, international organizations, and local governments.

Spinetti outlined plans for regulatory reviews, removal of rights barriers, and educational campaigns to combat discrimination. She emphasized the government’s commitment to making diversity a central theme across all public policies, with an approach grounded in intersectionality and official training.

The march also featured a powerful global plea: denouncing alleged genocidal actions by Israel in Gaza, illustrating the interconnected nature of local and international struggles for justice and equality.

As Uruguay steps into a new era under President Orsi’s leadership, the LGBTQ community remains vigilant. Formal rights are established, but true inclusivity demands tangible changes in everyday life—ending exclusion, violence, and discrimination. The Diversity March’s message was clear: it is not enough to promise; actions must follow for these promises to transform into lived realities.

For more details on Uruguay’s steps toward fulfilling LGBTQ rights under its new government, read the full article here (opens in a new tab).