Continuing our conversation highlighting Queer Voices Of Color we talk to Juan Castillo, the Director of Public Education Programs for Latino Equality Alliance (LEA) based in Los Angeles.  Starting in response to Proposition 8 in California, his organization is helping to support the needs and raise the visibility of LGBTQ Latinos in California and beyond.   Knowing that different intersectional identities present different challenges, we discuss some of the particular issues facing LGBTQ Latin@/x people.

According to Juan, LEA “started because they wanted to find out Why? What Happened?  How is it possible in a state that is so progressive, rights like that could be taken away.”  Juan and his organization set out to find those answers.  What they discovered was a lack of Queer visibility within the Latin family unit.  Since discovering this, LEA has begun to offer workshops for families and increase their visibility in Latin Pride Parades.

“…we make it a point that we go to Salvadorian Pride or or we go to Central American Pride.  Where we know anytime we put up any Rainbow Flag or any kind of sign, people come to the booth… and that’s when you start making contact outside…” – Juan Castillo

We also mention our  interview with Bamby Salcedo, formerly a Board Member of LEA, while discussing efforts to make trans rights and issues more visible.

Visit www.latinoequalityalliance.com  if you would like to Donate or find out more!

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