Uruguay Diversity March Challenges New Left-Wing Government

In a vibrant demonstration of unity and demand for equality, thousands gathered in Montevideo’s central streets during the 2025 Diversity March. Under the rallying cry “If there are rights, let it be known,” participants sought to turn political promises into tangible actions under President Yamandú Orsi’s administration. This march not only celebrated LGBTQ rights but underscored pressing demands for comprehensive policy changes in Uruguay.

The event began at Plaza Libertad and concluded at Plaza 1er de Mayo, encapsulating both celebration and concrete activism. Nicolás Oreiro of Colectivo Ovejas Negras emphasized the community’s urgent needs: public sector employment quotas for trans, Afro, and disabled populations; adherence to the Comprehensive Trans Law by health institutions; and effective implementation of support programs like the Uruguay Social Card for transgender individuals.

Despite welcoming Orsi’s government’s openness to dialogue—a stark contrast to the previous administration led by Luis Lacalle Pou—Oreiro warned against complacency. He emphasized that political overtures must translate into robust public policies, as the existing progressive legal framework still lacks proper execution and financial backing.

Human Rights Secretary Collette Spinetti acknowledged the necessity of rebuilding trust with marginalized communities. The government has initiated programs like “En Cada Territorio, Más Derechos” to engage directly with communities and understand their needs better. Efforts also include the “Territorios Diversos en Diálogo,” fostering discussions among civil society, academia, and local authorities.

Spinetti stressed that transforming LGBTQ rights into everyday realities necessitates a comprehensive approach: reviewing regulations, removing barriers to rights exercise, launching awareness campaigns, and incorporating equality into education systems. The administration aims to integrate sexual and gender diversity across all public policies, ensuring intersectional approaches and official training.

The Diversity March concluded with an international plea against the genocide in Gaza, illustrating how local struggles for diversity are interconnected with global justice movements. As Uruguay stands at a crossroads of promises versus action, the LGBTQ community remains vigilant, demanding that formal equality evolves into lived reality for all its members.

This narrative highlights the pivotal moment for LGBTQ rights in Uruguay as activists call on the government to convert legislative progress into real-world change, underscoring an ongoing quest for inclusivity and justice.

Original article source: Washington Blade