'It's Okay to Be Gay' in Mexico City Michael K. Lavers - Washington Blade
go to original January 12, 2015

A sign inside El MarraKech, a gay bar in Mexico City, reads it does not discriminate based on sexual orientation, race, physical ability, socioeconomic status or ‘any other reason.’ (Washington Blade/Michael K. Lavers)

Mexico City remains a refuge for many LGBT Mexicans, where same-sex couples have been able to legally marry in the Mexican capital since 2010.

The Mexican capital in November became the first city in Latin America to allow transgender people to legally change their gender without a court order.

Mexico City’s comprehensive anti-discrimination law includes gender identity and expression and designates transphobia as a form of discrimination. Those convicted under the statute face up to three years in prison.

The Mexico City Council to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination — known by its Spanish acronym COPRED — enforces the anti-discrimination law and seeks to build support for the city’s LGBT residents through public education campaigns and other initiatives. It also operates a clinic for trans people and those with HIV/AIDS.

...Large signs highlighting the Mexican capital’s anti-discrimination law are prominently featured in many restaurants, bars and other businesses. Young same-sex couples holding hands and even kissing along Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, one of Mexico City’s main thoroughfares, is not an uncommon sight.

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