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LGBTI
Promotion
2017
Dialogue Human Rights of Intersex Persons in the Americas
OAS Headquarters, March 20
The President and Rapporteur on the rights of LGBTI persons, Francisco Eguiguren Praeli; The second Vice President and Rapporteur on the rights of the child, Esmeralda Arosemena de Trotiño and the Executive Secretary of the IACHR, Paulo Abrão, met with intersex persons from Costa Rica, the United States, Chile and Mexico; and representatives of the missions of Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay. On this occasion the intersex persons that participated shared their testimonies and highlighted measures that the States of the region should urgently implement to protect their rights.
Training workshop for LGBTI activists
Cali, February 10 and 11
The team providing support to the Rapporteurship gave a training workshop to Cuban LGBTI activists in Cali, Colombia due to the invitation of the International Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights. The workshop focused on human rights and the use of mechanisms of regional and international protection systems. The team providing support to the Rapporteurship provided training on the mechanisms that the Inter-American Human Rights System has deployed for the protection of LGBTI persons, legal standards, and how civil society organizations can activate such mechanisms in their advocacy work.
Strategic Plan of the LGBTI Rapporteurship
Washington D.C., February 8
As part of the process of developing the IACHR Strategic Plan 2017-2020, the Rapporteur for LGBTI rights, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren Praeli, along with the Executive Secretary of the IACHR, Paulo Abrão, and team providing support to the Rapporteurship held a workshop towards having a Strategic Plan for the Rapporteurship on the rights of LGBTI persons for 2017-2020. This instance counted on the collaboration of experts in the field that provided inputs for the process.
Presentation to the OAS Committee on Juridical and Political Affairs
Washington, D.C., February 2
The IACHR Thematic Monitoring Officer, Mario López Garelli, made a presentation on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the IACHR to the Committee on Juridical and Political Affairs of the OAS Permanent Council, pursuant to resolution AG / RES. 2887 (XLVI-O / 16), "Promotion and protection of human rights", in particular, human rights, sexual orientation and gender identity and expression.
Presentation of the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas
San Francisco, January 26
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, presented in San Francisco the English version of the Report “Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas”. The event counted with a panel that was composed by the IACHR President, James Cavallaro; the Consul General of Canada in San Francisco, Brandon Lee; a career civil servant within the political section of the U.S. Mission to the OAS (USOAS), Andrew Stevenson; the Senior Policy Adviser and Budget Director at the Human Rights Commission of the City and County of San Francisco, Sneh Rao; and from civil society, Ana Montano with the LGBTI Justice Clinic.The video od the event is available here.
2016
Presentation in the event LGBTI Youth in the Americas
Washington D.C., December 12
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, participated in the panel of the event organized by the OAS LGBTI Core Group “LGBTI Youth in the Americas: Advancing a Commitment to Address Victims of Trafficking in Persons”, within the framework of international human rights day. In the opportunity, the OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, gave the welcoming remarks, and the event counted with the participation, among others, of Randy Berry, U.S. Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTI Person; Randy Boissonnault, Special Advisor on LGBTQ2 Issues to the Canadian Prime Minister; Clifton Cortez, World Bank Advisor on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Issues; and, Paola Castron, trans woman survivor of human trafficking.
Advocacy Week
New York, December 2-10
The fellow providing support to the Rapporteurship took part in Advocacy Week from December 2 -10, 2016, organized by the civil society organization OutRight Action International. During that week, 60 human rights advocates from over 25 countries around the world met with government representatives and UN agencies, to discuss the most pressing human rights situations facing LGBTI people in their countries. The week finished with the conference “OutSummit”, where the fellow participated in the panel "Promoting LGBTIQ Rights Globally: Foreign Policy as an Instrument for Change".
Remarks at the Key Actors Meeting on Education, Sexual and Gender Diversity
Montevideo, October 13 and 14
The specialist supporting the Office of the Special Rapporteur participated as a speaker at the Key Actors Meeting on Education, Sexual and Gender Diversity, which was organized by the member organizations of the Iberoamerican Network of LGBTI Education (REI), Call it H (Uruguay), Promsex (Peru), MOVILH (Chile), Colombia Diversa (Colombia) and Fundación Triángulo (Spain).
Remarks at the Annual Conference of the International Bar Association
Washington D.C., September 19
The Specialist who provided support to the Rapporteurship participated as a speaker at the Annual Conference of the International Bar Association, held in Washington DC between September 18 and 23. His paper was discussed in the Panel "Criminalization of homosexuality worldwide: moving forward or backward?" along with Michael Kirby.
Human Rights Competition "Sergio García Ramírez"
Mexico City, September 2
The attorney supporting the rapporteurship participated as judge of the Human Rights Competition "Sergio García Ramírez", organized by the Autonomous University of Mexico in collaboration with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, an opportunity In which students from various universities in the hemisphere participated by simulating the procedure before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in a case called "Micaela Marcano vs. The State of Sacayan "related to the rights of trans people.
Informal dialogue table on the IACHR's report "Violence against LGBTI persons in America",
Mexico City, September 1
The specialist lawyer of the IACHR's LGBTI Rapporteurship participated as a speaker at an informal dialogue table on the IACHR's report "Violence against LGBTI persons in America", along with other panelists from the society Civil, including the organizations The Closet of Sor Juana and Captive Souls AC The panel was held at the Faculty of Law of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and moderated by Socorro Apreza Delgado, Director of the Seminar on Philosophy of Law at UNAM.
Presentation - IV Dr. Héctor Fix Zamudio Training Course on the Inter-American Human Rights System
Mexico City, August 31
The Rapporteur for the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren and the specialist who provides support to the Office of the Special Rapporteur, imparted courses in the framework of the Diploma of Formation in the Inter-American System of Human Rights "Héctor Fix -Zamudio", which is a result of the agreement between the Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and was held at the headquarters of the Institute of Legal Research of the UNAM, in Mexico City. Commissioner Eguiguren participated in the lecture "The Rights of LGBTI people in the Americas", and the lawyer who supports the rapporteurship giving the presentation "Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation".
Meeting with the Member States of the LGBTI Core Group
OAS Headquarters, July 27
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, met with the representatives of the eight OAS member states comprising the Core Group on LGBTI issues (Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, United States, Mexico, and Uruguay)
Training on the Inter-American Human Rights System and LGBTI Rights
IACHR Headquarters (virtual participation), July 26
The team providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a virtual training to several LGBTI human rights activists who participated in a training course on international and regional human rights protection mechanisms. The training was organized by the Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights and held in Cartagena, Colombia.
Webinar – “Rights of the LGBTTTI Community” organized by Mukira
IACHR Headquarters (virtual participation), July 21
The specialist and the fellowship attorneys providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a presentation on the human rights situation of LGBTI persons. It was an open seminar held online and organized by Mukira, Justicia, Género y Buenas Prácticas, which works in Mexico, specifically out of Mexico City.
Course for State Agents on the Inter-American System for the Protection of Human Rights
IACHR Headquarters, July 20
The specialist and fellow providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a presentation on terminology referring to sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and the human rights situation for LGBTI persons. The course was given to state officials from the various branches of government from 10 OAS member states, as part of the Course on the Inter-American System for the Protection of Human Rights organized in conjunction with the IACHR, American University – Washington College of Law, the Inter-American Human Rights Institute (IIHR), and the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights.
Participation in the Global LGBTI Human Rights Conference “Non Violence, Non Discrimination, and Social Inclusion”
Montevideo, July 13-15
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, and the fellow providing support to the Rapporteurship participated in the Global LGBTI Human Rights Conference “Non Violence, Non Discrimination, and Social Inclusion,” which was co-chaired by the governments of Uruguay and the Netherlands and held in Montevideo July 13-15, 2016. Rapporteur Eguiguren served as the main panelist in one of the keynote sessions on the first day of the conference. The LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in the Working Group on Regional and International Diplomacy.
Seminar on Equality and Non-Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity for Parliamentarians of Latin America and the Caribbean
Montevideo, July 11
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, and the fellow providing support to the Rapporteurship participated in the “Seminar on Equality and Non-Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity for Parliamentarians of Latin America and the Caribbean,” which was organized by Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). It was held at the Uruguayan parliament on July 11, 2016. The Parliamentary Handbook on Human Rights, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity, developed by the PGA and UNDP, is a tool containing key information on human rights and specific actions to create awareness, analyze, and reform the legal framework, given the needs of LGBTI persons.
Panel on Domestic Violence and Access to Justice
Washington, D.C., July 7
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in a panel held at the Embassy of Finland in Washington, DC, on the occasion of the launch of the report by the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), entitled “Whose Justice, Whose Alternative?” The report addresses alternative conflict resolution methods for cases of domestic violence. The attorney’s presentation focused on situations of domestic violence and intimate partner violence in same sex couples and diverse couples.
White House Dialogue on Global LGBTI Human Rights
Washington, D.C., June 29
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in a panel on LGBT human rights as part of the dialogue held at the White House in Washington, DC, entitled “2016 White House Dialogue on Global LGBT Human Rights.”
Panel “Women in International Law,” organized by the American Society of International Law (ASIL)
Washington, D.C., June 22
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in a breakfast panel, organized by Women in International Law Interest Group de American Society of International Law (ASIL), to discuss the careers of women attorneys working in the field of international law.
Presentation of the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas
Santo Domingo, June 14
The Executive Secretary of the IACHR, Emilio Álvarez Icaza, presented the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas as part of a panel in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in coordination with the Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights. The audience included the President of the IACHR, Commissioner James Cavallaro, and the IACHR’s Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, Edison Lanza. Co-panelists included members of regional civil society organizations, including Christian King and Alejandra Sardá. It was moderated by Carlos Quesada, Director of the Institute on Race, Equality and Human Rights.
Workshop on the IAHRS and the LGBTI Rapporteurship
Santo Domingo, 9 de junio
The fellow providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a training workshop on the Inter-American Human Rights System and the work of the IACHR in the area of LBGTI rights. The workshop was geared towards LGBTI human rights activists and defenders who were in the Dominican Republic to attend the OAS General Assembly.
Presentation to the OAS Permanent Council
OAS Headquarters, May 18
Presentation of the Director of the IACHR Department of Thematic Monitoring, on behalf of the IACHR Executive Secretary, to the OAS Permanent Council as part of the celebration of the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. Several OAS member states requested the forum.
Forum: A Perspective on Disability, HIV and Sexual Diversity
IACHR Headquarters (virtual participation), May 18
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated virtually as a panelist for the closing session on the Forum: A Perspective on Disability, HIV and Sexual Diversity, organized in collaboration with Mexico’s National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), the Administrative Justice Tribunal of Michoacán de Ocampo, and several Mexican universities.
Workshop on Precautionary Measures for Human Rights Defenders for Trans Persons
Bogota, May 4-5
The fellow providing support to the Rapporteurship, as well as other IACHR attorneys, participated in the training for human rights defenders for trans persons from several countries in the region, organized by Akahatá (Genders and Sexualities Team) and Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights. It specifically focused on the precautionary measure mechanism of the Inter-American Commission.
Workshop on Terminology and Human Rights for MAPP-OAS officials
IACHR Headquarters, April 29
The team providing support to the Rapporteurship gave a virtual training on LGBTI terminology and human rights. It was geared toward the support staff of the Mission to Support the Peace Process in Colombia (MAPP-OAS) throughout Colombia.
Training on the Human Rights of LGBTI Persons with the OAS Human Resources Department
IACHR Headquarters, April 20
The team providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a training on LGBTI terminology and human rights to the Director of OAS Human Resources and all staff, both professional and administrative, of the OAS Human Resources Department.
Dialogue with OAS member states on good practices on LGBTI human rights
IACHR Headquarters, April 13
The Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Commissioner Eguiguren, led a dialogue with member states on good practices on LGBTI human rights at the IACHR headquarters during the 157th session of the IACHR. The dialogue was moderated by the IACHR Executive Secretary, Emilio Álvarez Icaza.
Discussion on Gender Perspectives on Torture with the UN Rapporteur on Torture
Washington, D.C., April 8
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in a panel organized by CEJIL to discuss the new report of the Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment or punishment, Juan E. Méndez. This report contains a significant section on the torture and human rights of LGBTI persons.
Remarks at the Human Rights Institute of the Georgetown University Law Center
Washington, D.C., April 6
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a speech as part of the Human Rights Institute: Associates Program, organized by the Human Rights Institute of the Georgetown University Law Center, on the work of the LGBTI Rapporteurship.
Launch of the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas
IACHR Headquarters, April 5
Commissioner Francisco Eguiguren, Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, presented the main findings and recommendations of the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas during the 157th session of the IACHR. Three other IACHR thematic reports that were approved in 2015 were also presented at the event.
Presentation of a documentary on the situation of LGBTI persons in Southeast Asia
Washington, D.C., April 1
The team providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship and the Department of Promotion and Public Policies of the IACHR organized a round table for IACHR staff to discuss the research and documentary on the situation of LGBTI human rights in Southeast Asia, entitled “Not Only Voices: LGBTI Persons in Southeast Asia,” made by a former fellow of the LGBTI Rapporteurship of the IACHR, Gabriel Alves de Faria.
Panel at the 110th Annual Conference of the American Society of International Law (ASIL)
Washington, D.C., March 31
The attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship participated in a panel entitled “New Frontiers in LGBTI Rights,” organized by the American Society of International Law (ASIL), as part of its 110th Annual Conference, held in Washington, D.C.
OAS Institutional Policy on Gender Equality, Diversity and Human Rights
OAS Headquarters, March 7
The OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, launched the OAS Institutional Policy on Gender Equality, Diversity and Human Rights, developed by the Inter-American Commission of Women. The policy includes input from the OAS Group of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and Intersex Employees and Allies (OAS Group of LGBTQI), to which the staff of the IACHR LGBTI Rapporteurship staff belong.
Course on the Human Rights of Refugees
OAS Headquarters, March 7
On March 7, 2016, the attorney providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship gave a speech on the rights of LGBT asylum seekers and refugees, as part of a panel entitled “Contributions to the IAHRS to Strengthen International Protection for Refugees.” Paulo Abrão, Director of the MERCOSUR Human Rights Public Policy Institute, also participated. This course was held as part of the Course on International Refugee Law for the permanent missions of OAS member states. This course was held pursuant to the mandate set forth in OAS General Assembly resolution AG/RES. 2839 (XLIV-O/14) “Protection of Asylum Seekers and Refugees in the Americas,” which instructed the Permanent Council, through its Committee on Juridical and Political Affairs, to organize it with the support of the Department of International Law and with technical and financial assistance from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Training workshop for Guatemalan journalists on LGBTI rights
IACHR Headquarters, February 26
The team providing support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship, in conjunction with the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, Edison Lanza, gave a virtual training to journalists in Guatemala. It was organized in collaboration with Guatemala’s Human Rights Office of the Ombudsman, the Ombudswoman for Sexual Diversity, Gabriela Tuch, and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The event was launched by the Ombudsman for Human Rights, Jorge de León Duque, with journalists and employees from 22 Guatemalan media outlets present.
Presentation of the Executive Secretary to the OAS CAJP
Washington, D.C., February 11
The IACHR Executive Secretariat, Emilio Álvarez Icaza, gave a presentation to the OAS Committee on Juridical and Political Affairs (CAJP) on the IACHR’s work in the areas of sexual orientation, gender identity and LGBTI rights, in keeping with General Assembly resolution AG/RES. 2863 (XLIV-O/14), Human Rights, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity and Expression.
Panel - Launch of the REDLACTRANS Report
Washington, D.C., January 27
President of the Commission James Cavallaro, Executive Secretary Emilio Alvarez Icaza, Advisor to the OAS Secretary General on Access to Rights and Equity Ideli Salvatti, and the attorney providing support to the Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons participated in a discussion panel with a member of the Coalition of LGBTTTI Organizations working under the OAS umbrella and several transsexual human rights defenders, who are members of the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Trans Persons (REDLACTRANS). The panel took place as part of the launch of the REDLACTRANS Report on human rights violations of trans women in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Panama.
2015
Advocacy Week
New York, December 5-12
The fellow providing support to the Rapporteurship took part in Advocacy Week from December 5-12, 2015, organized by the civil society organization OutRight International. During that week, 39 human rights advocates from various countries around the world met with government representatives and UN agencies, to discuss the most pressing human rights situations facing LGBTI people in their countries.
Launch of the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas
Montevideo, December 7
The IACHR and the Special Rapporteurship for Freedom of Expression held the first activity officially launching the Report on Violence against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Persons in the Americas, with an event held at the Uruguay House of Representatives. This launch was organized with support from the Uruguay House of Representatives, the National Human Rights Institution, OBSERVACOM, Redlactrans, Colectivo Ovejas Negras, the Coalition for Democratic Communication, and Global Initiative for Sexuality and Human Rights, Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights. A social media campaign on the IACHR subject report started that same day, and the website was launched with contents of the Report in Spanish.
Photo credit: EFE
Presentation – Main findings by the IACHR regarding violence against LGBTI persons in the region
San Salvador, November 30
On November 30, 2015, the main findings contained in the Report on Violence against LGBTI Persons in the Americas was presented, with support from UNAIDS and the following Salvadorian civil society organizations: ASPIDH Arcoiris, Colectivo LGBTI Estrella del Golfo, Esmules, COMCAVIS Trans, Colectivo Alejandría, Generación Hombres Trans, and ASTRANS. More than 60 individuals were in attendance, among them representatives of civil society organizations and the Police Department and other state entities.
Panel Discussion – Protecting the Rights of LGBTI People in Latin America: a Decade of Progress
New York, November 20
Rapporteur Tracy Robinson was a panelist for the event “Protecting the Rights of LGBTI People in Latin America: a Decade of Progress,” organized by Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, and Uruguay (Latin American members of the LGBT Group in New York), OutRight International, and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Discussion - Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Human Rights
Banjul, November 3
On November 3, 2015, Rapporteur Tracy Robinson, Commissioner and President Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, and Deputy Executive Secretary Elizabeth Abi-Mershed were in Banjul, Gambia to participate in a discussion on sexual orientation, gender identity, and human rights. Members of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, UN AIDS representatives, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, and independent UN experts/rapporteurs took part in the dialogue. That dialogue yielded a report on progress made in protecting the rights of LGBT people at the international level and in the region.
Photo credits: OHCHR/UNAIDS
Panel – IV Legal Congress on Sexual and Reproductive Rights
Lima, November 3
The attorney providing support to the Rapporteurship took part in the IV Legal Congress on Sexual and Reproductive Rights, held in Lima, Peru. It was organized by the Association of Judges for Justice and Democracy (Asociación de Jueces por la Justicia y la Democracia―JUSDEM) and the Andean Commission of Jurists. The lawyer discussed issues of access to justice for women who are victims of sexual violence, including lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, and inter-sex women in the region.
Sixth Model OAS for students from Colombia’s Caribbean coast
Barranquilla, September 16-18
The fellow that supports the LGBTI Rapporteurship was a speaker at the Model Organization of American States Assembly for students, held at Universidad del Norte en Barranquilla, from September 16-18, 2015. The topic of discussion for this Model Assembly was “Initiatives to Promote Tolerance and Eliminate Discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, and Intersex (LGBTI) Persons in the Hemisphere.”
Meeting of Experts on the Rights of Intersex Persons
Geneva, September 16-17
The attorney providing support to the Rapporteurship was invited to be a panelist for this September 16-17, 2015 meeting, which was convened by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner Human Rights. Tracy Robinson, Rapporteur for LGBTI People, also attended the meeting. The opening remarks for the meeting were delivered by Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Keynote address in Tabasco, Mexico, on violence against LGBTI persons
Tabasco, Mexico, September 8
Rapporteur Tracy Robinson delivered a keynote address on violence against LGBTI persons at an event organized by the Human Rights Commission of the Supreme Court of Mexico.
Presentation - III Dr. Héctor Fix Zamudio Training Course on the Inter-American Human Rights System
Mexico City, Mexico, September 7
Rapporteur Tracy Robinson delivered a presentation on rights of LGBTI people, during the Third Dr. Héctor Fix Zamudio Training Course on the Inter-American Human Rights System.
Presentation - First International Congress and Fifth National Congress on Homo-Affective Rights
Río de Janeiro, September 4
The attorney that provides support to the LGBTI Rapporteurship spoke at the closing session of the First International Congress and Fifth Nation Congress on Homo-Affective Rights, held in Rio de Janeiro from September 2-4, 2015, by the Commission on Homo-Affective Rights of the Brazilian Bar Association (OABRJ).
Congress on Human, Gender, and Sexuality Rights
San Juan, Puerto Rico, September 3
Rapporteur Tracy Robinson delivered a keynote address on the rights of LGBTI people and women’s rights at a congress on human rights, gender, and sexuality, organized by the Puerto Rico Civil Rights Commission in San Juan.
Workshop on precautionary measures for transgender women leaders in El Salvador
IACHR Headquarters, August 12
The fellow supporting the Rapporteurship, along with staff of the IACHR Protection Group, took part in a workshop on precautionary measures, organized at IACHR headquarters specifically for women leaders of organizations that defend the rights of transgender people in El Salvador.
Twenty-second Model of the OAS Permanent Council for Interns (XXII MOAS-PC)
IACHR Headquarters, August -5
The lawyer and the fellow supporting the Rapporteurship participated as panelists and experts at the Twenty-Second OAS Permanent Council Model for Interns, held at OAS headquarters in Washington, D.C., August 4-5, 2015.
Regional Consultative Meeting on Strategic Litigation in Africa for the Advancement of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity/Expression
Johannesburg, July 7
The attorney supporting the Rapporteurship was a panelist at a meeting entitled Regional consultative meeting on strategic litigation in Africa for the advancement of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, organized by the nongovernmental organization Initiative for Strategic Litigation in Africa (ISLA). The meeting was held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from July 6-8, 2015.
Conference: Engaging with the Inter-American Human Rights System for U.S. Advocacy
New York, June 12
Rapporteur Tracy Robinson participated in a conference at Columbia University in New York, on the inter-American human rights system and its relationship with the United States. It was entitled “Engaging with the Inter-American Human Rights System for U.S. Advocacy.” Rapporteur Tracy Robinson’s presentation was on the human rights of LGBTI people.
Conference at the White House: Combatting Bias-Motivated Violence Targeting LGBT Persons Around the World
Washington, D.C., June 12
The attorney supporting the Rapporteurship was a panelist for a White House-organized conference entitled “Combatting Bias-Motivated Violence Targeting LGBT Persons Around the World.”
Talk on the IAHRS and the Coalition of LGBTI Organizations engaged with the OAS
Washington, D.C., June 12
The attorney supporting the Rapporteurship gave a talk on the inter-American human rights system and the Rapporteurship on the Rights of LGBTI Persons to more than 35 representatives of civil society organizations from Latin America and the Caribbean, which are part of the Coalition of LGBTI Organizations working within the framework of the OAS.
Informal meeting of the Rapporteurship with human rights advocates in Brazil
São Paulo, May 19
Rapporteur for the Rights of LGBTI People, Tracy Robinson, held an informal meeting with various LGBT organizations, advocates, and activists in São Paulo, Brazil, to discuss the main concerns and challenges of protecting and recognizing the rights of LGBT people in that country.
Panel Discussion - International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
Sede de la OEA, 14 de mayo
The attorney supporting the Rapporteurship made a presentation in a panel discussion marking International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia in 2015, at OAS headquarters in Washington, D.C., for OAS staff and the general public. Organized by the OAS Group of Employees and Allies, the panel discussion drew participation from Betilde V. Muñoz-Pogossian, Acting Director of the OAS Department of Social Inclusion, and Carlos Quesada, Executive Director of the Institute for Race, Equality and Human rights, as well as layers from the IACHR Executive Secretariat. The event was inaugurated by Mr. Gabriel Bidegain, a member of the OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro’s Transition Team.
Presentation: Rights of LGBT Children and Families in Latin America
Washington D.C., April 8, 2016
The attorney suppporting the Rapporteurship gave a presentation on the panel “Rights of LGBT Children and Families in Latin America,” organized by American University Washington College of Law (AU-WCL), High-Impact Litigation Project, and Lambda Law Society. The panelists included journalist Chandler Burr; Brian Burr, Chandler Burr‘s son; and Colombian activist Ana Leiderman (via Skype). Macarena Saez, Director of the AU-WCL High-Impact Project, moderated the panel discussion.
Panel Discussion on International Transgender Day of Visibility
Washington, D.C., March 31
Executive Director of the IACHR, Emilio Álvarez Icaza, participated as a presenter for the panel discussion at OAS headquarters to mark International Transgender Day of Visibility. The panel discussion was organized by the OAS Group of LGBTQI Staff and Allies, with participation from Ruby Corado, President of Casa Ruby, Matías Matilda González Gil, human rights activist and advocate for transgender people, and Luc Athayde, an Open Society Foundations official.
Regional Dialogue on LGBTI Human Rights and Health in Asia-Pacific
Bangkok, February 26
On February 26, 2015, the human rights specialist who supports the work of the Rapporteurship gave a presentation at the opening panel session of the conference “Regional Dialogue on LGBTI Human Rights and Health in Asia-Pacific,” which was attended by more than 200 state representatives, community leaders, members of civil society organizations, and international experts. This conference was part of UNDP’s initiative “Being LGBT in Asia.”
Regional Workshop on the Role of National Institutions for the Protection of the Human Rights of LGBTI Persons in the Asia-Pacific region
Bangkok, February 25
On February 25, 2015, the attorney who works at the Rapporteur’s office gave a presentation at the regional workshop on the Role of National Institutions for the Protection of the Human Rights of LGBTI Persons in the Asia-Pacific region, which was jointly organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) and took place in Bangkok, Thailand.
Milestones in the protection of the rights of LGBTI people in the Americas: The role of the OAS General Assembly and the IACHR
Washington DC, February 19
Towards the end of 2014, the Rapporteurship's support team, along with other OAS colleagues, formed a group of LGBT staff and allies within the Organization to set forth proposals related to nondiscrimination and greater inclusion and socialization of LGBTI persons at the OAS. Among this group’s first outreach activities was a talk held on February 19, 2015, with the title “Milestones in the protection of the rights of LGBTI people in the Americas: The role of the OAS General Assembly and the IACHR.” At that event, the attorney who supports the LGBTI Rapporteurship, the consultant, and the fellowship recipient gave a presentation on the IACHR’s Rapporteurship for LGBTI rights and on topics related to terminology issues. The Director of the OAS Department of International Law also participated in the panel session. The talk was attended by more than 80 people, including members of the OAS staff, representatives of missions to the OAS, and the general public.
2014
An Overview of Violence against LGBTI Persons: Registry and Social Media Campaign
IACHR Headquarters, December 17
On December 17, 2014, the IACHR launched a multi-day campaign on various social media concerning violence against LGBTI persons, including graphics and three videos, with a compilation of clips from IACHR hearings on the human rights situation of LGBTI persons. The campaign began with a press release and an annex describing the top findings of the Registry of Violence against LGBT persons. The Registry of Violence against LGBT persons is the result of daily monitoring during 15 months of various sources on acts of violence against LGBT persons between January 2013 and March 2014. According to reports received by the IACHR, during this fifteen-month period, at least 594 persons who either were, or were perceived as, LGBT were murdered and at least 176 experienced serious non-lethal attacks, allegedly related to their sexual orientation or their gender identity or expression, in 25 OAS member states. The IACHR also highlighted the invisibility of violence against lesbian women, trans men and intersex persons, due to different factors. The social media campaign had a high impact, reaching 925,000 Facebook users (and a further 215,000 on Twitter), which resulted in 6,500 persons subscribing to the IACHR’s webpage.
- Press Release
- Annex to the Press Release: Analysis of the information of the Registry of Violence pdf and html
- Registry of Violence against LGBT persons (January 2013 to March 2014)
- Video: violence and the rights of lesbian, gay and bisexual persons
- Video: violence and the rights of trans persons
- Video: violence and the rights of intersex persons
- Social Media Campaign (in Spanish)
- Tambén disponível em Portugués (Comunicado de Imprensa) (Anexo)
Regional Meeting on Human Rights and Health of LGBT Persons
Washington DC, December 10
On December 10, 2014, the attorney working for the Rapporteurship took part in a panel discussion organized to mark International Human Rights Day, in conjunction with a regional meeting convened by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to address the causes of unequal access to, and use of, health services by LGBT persons.
Talk on the Rights of LGBT persons for the staff of the IACHR and OAS
Washington DC, November 17
On November 17, 2014, the Rapporteurship's support team organized a presentation and training session on the rights of LGBTI persons for the IACHR Executive Secretariat’s staff and other OAS staff, interns and fellows. The training was offered by LGBT students from the University of Maryland.
First International Seminar on Sexual Diversity, Rights, and Citizenship
Paraiba, November 14
On November 14, the Rapporteurship's fellow gave the closing presentation at the Primeiro Seminário Internacional de Diversidade Sexual: Direitos e Ciudadania (first international seminar on sexual diversity, rights, and citizenship), held in the State of Paraiba, Brazil.
Course for Journalists on the Inter-American System of Human Rights
IACHR Headquarters, November 14
On November 14, 2014 at IACHR headquarters in Washington D.C., the Rapporteurship's consultant took part in a seminar on the inter-American human rights system aimed at journalists from the Americas.
Third Annual Conference to Advance the HRs of and Promote Inclusive Development for LGBT Persons
Washington DC, November 14
On November 12, 13, and 14, 2014, the specialized attorney working for the Rapporteurship attended a donor conference on LGBT issues, organized by the US Department of State, USAID and The Council for Global Equality. In the context of that conference, the attorney took part on November 14 in a high-level panel discussion on multilateral agencies and efforts to protect the rights of LGBT persons worldwide.
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Opening of the art Exhibit “What we have within”
Washington DC, November 12
On November 12, 2014, the IACHR took part, through its Rapporteurship, in the opening of an art exhibit entitled "What We Have Within," in association with the OAS Art Museum of the Americas (AMA). Some of the photographs exhibited were linked to LGBT issues. The IACHR Executive Secretary gave the opening remarks.
Discussion on the Rights of LGBT persons, “Towards the Empowerment of Everyone”
Washington DC, November 10
On November 10, 2014, the specialized attorney working for the Rapporteurship participated remotely, from the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C., in a discussion on the rights of LGBT persons, which was convened by the organization Fundación Mujeres en Igualdad (Women in Equality Foundation) of Argentina.
Noveno Curso sobre el Sistema Interamericano de Derechos Humanos
IACHR Headquarters, October 30
On October 30, 2014, the specialized attorney working for the Rappoteurship provided training on the work of the IACHR on the rights of LGBTI persons, in the context of the Ninth Course on the Inter-American and International Systems for the Protection of Human Rights at IACHR headquarters in Washington D.C.
Launching of Publication on Conscientious Objection
Washington DC, October 27
On October 27, 2014, Rapporteur Tracy Robinson participated in a panel organized by the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, and Women´s Link Worldwide. The panel centered on the launching of the publication “Conscientious Objection and Abortion: A Global Perspective on the Colombian Experience”. Rapporteur Robinson´s presentation made reference to the impact of this debate on the recognition of the rights of LGBTI persons.
Ninth Course on the Inter-American and International Systems for the Protection of Human Rights
Lima, September 4-6
The Rapporteur Tracy Robinson participated in the closing panel of a regional conference on political participation organized jointly by the Centre for the Promotion and Defense of Sexual and Reproductive Rights (PROMSEX), Corporación Caribe Afirmativo and the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund, entitled “Inaugural Meeting of LGBTI Political Leadership in Latin America and the Caribbean”. The Meeting was held in Lima September 4-6, 2014, which included the participation of several dozen activists and politicians who are openly LGBT from across the region.
Protocol by the Mexican Supreme Court of Justice on Cases involving Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity
Mexico, August 18
On August 18, 2014, the Rapporteur participated in the launching event of a Protocol prepared by the Mexican Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) aimed at aiding judges in deciding cases related to sexual orientation and gender identity in conformity with human rights and internationally recognized and binding human rights standards. The Rapporteur acknowledged the leading role of Justice Juan N. Silva Meza, President of the Supreme Court, in this important initiative.
Credit: Diario Rotativo / Revolución 3.0
Meeting with Civil Society organizations in Mexico
Mexico, August 18
On August 18, 2014, the specialist who supports the work of the LGBTI Rapporteurship held an informal meeting with more than fifteen activists and human rights defenders of the rights of LGBTI persons in Mexico City.
Training Seminar on the Inter-American System of Human Rights aimed at Defenders and Activists in the Caribbean
St. Lucia, August 13 - 14
On August 13 and 14, 2014, the legal consultant that supports the work of the Rapporteurship participated in a training on the Inter-American Human Rights System entitled “Increasing Caribbean Advocacy through UPR/OAS”, organized by United and Strong and CariFLAGS EC Hub, targeted at activists and defenders of human rights of LGBTI persons in English speaking Caribbean countries.
Panel “The Work of the IACHR in advancing the Rights of LGBTI people in the Americas”
Washington DC, July 23
On July 23, 2014, the organization Global Rights offered a session titled “The work of the IACHR in advancing the Rights of LGBTI people in the Americas”. It was targeted to organizations and LGBT rights defenders in the United States.
Exchange with delegation of the International Visitor Leadership Program (Caribbean leaders)
IACHR Headquarters, June 11
On June 11, 2014, the specialist with the Rapporteurship was pleased to welcome to Commission headquarters a group of LGBTI leaders and activists from Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Belize, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, all of whom were participants in the International Visitor Leadership Program organized by the US Department of State
Dialogue on the Human Rights of LGBTI persons in Latin America and the Caribbean
Asunción, June 3
Also in Asunción, Paraguay, on June 3, 2014, the IACHR Chair and its Rapporteur on the Rights of LGBTI Persons, Tracy Robinson, gave a presentation on the panel entitled “Dialogue on the Human Rights of LGBTI Persons in Latin America and the Caribbean”, organized by Aireana Group for the Rights of Lesbian Women. Also serving on the panel were the IACHR’s Rapporteur on the Rights of the Child, Commissioner Rosa María Ortiz, and local and international activists.
Meetings with the Coalition of LGBTTTI organizations and other organizations at the 44th session of the OAS General Assembly
Asunción, June 1
The Rapporteur and the specialist working with the Rapporteurship attended the 44th session of the OAS General Assembly, held in Asunción, Paraguay, in the course of which they had a number of meetings with civil society organizations to discuss topics related to the rights of LGBTI persons in the Americas. For instance, on June 1, 2014, the specialist working with the Rapporteurship delivered a presentation on the Rapporteurship’s work and on the general situation of the rights of LGBTI persons in the region at a meeting organized by the Coalition of LGBTTTI organizations, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
Gender, Sexuality and Diversity: A conversation with Professor Rhoda Reddock
Washington DC, April 22
On April 22, 2014, the Rapporteurship organized a discussion with OAS Member States on the topic of sexuality and gender. The discussion was centered around a talk by Professor Rhoda Reddock, Deputy Principal of the St. Augustine Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI), an expert on gender and the seventh woman to receive the Triennial CARICOM Award for Women. The discussion was attended by representatives from 18 OAS member states.
Meeting with civil society organizations that work with LGBT issues in the region
IACHR Headquarters, March 28
On March 28, 2014, the Rapporteur and her team had a meeting with civil society organizations working on the defense of the rights of LGBT persons in the region. These organizations were in Washington DC for the IACHR’s period of session.
Panel: The Economic Cost of Homophobia: How LGBT Exclusion Impacts Development
Washington DC, March 12
On March 12, 2014, the Rapporteur on the Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex (LGBTI) Persons, Tracy Robinson, was a speaker at an event organized by the World Bank, entitled “The Economic Cost of Homophobia: how LGBT exclusion impacts development.”
Exchange with delegation of the International Visitor Leadership Program (Latin-American Leaders)
Washington DC, January 29
On January 29, 2014, the Rapporteurship’s fellow welcomed at the seat of the Commission a group of leaders from LGBTI organizations in a visit organized by the “International Visitor Leadership Program”, U.S. Department of State. The visiting delegation was integrated by human rights defenders from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Peru.
2013
Third Meeting on LGBT Coordination
Washington DC, December 13
On December 13, 2013, the fellow took part of the “Third Meeting on LGBT Coordination” at the Embassy of Argentina to the United States in Washington, DC. At the meeting, the work of the LGBTI Unit was presented to a number of American and European States.
First Specialized International Course on Human Rights: Access to International Systems for Protection of Human Rights: Homage to Elías Carranza
Cartagena, November 29
On November 29, 2013, Commissioner Robinson took part as a panelist in the “First Specialized International Course on Human Rights: Access to International Systems for Protection of Human Rights: Homage to Elías Carranza,” organized by the Colombian Institute of Human Rights (Instituto Colombiano de Derechos Humanos) in Cartagena, Colombia.
Symposium: LGBTQ Rights around the World
Washington DC, November 15
On November 15, 2013, the Unit’s specialist took part as a panelist in an LGBTQ Rights Around the World Symposium, specifically in a panel discussion on “Attitudes and Laws: Challenges Faced by Members of the LGBTQ Abroad,” organized by OutLaw, an organization of LGBTQA students, at Georgetown University Law Center.
Course for civil society on the Inter-American and International Systems for the Protection of Human Rights
IACHR Headquarters, October 21 to November 1
The Specialist and Fellow took part in the Course on the Inter-American and International Systems for the Protection of Human Rights organized for civil society organizations at the headquarters of the IACHR from October 21 to November 1, 2013, which focused in particular, on this occasion, on the rights of LGBTI persons. Also, the Specialist worked on the hypothetical cases related to issues of gender identity and sexual orientation which was used in the context of this course.
Panel on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in International Human Rights Law
República Dominican Republic, October 9-11
Commissioner Robinson presented on a panel on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in International Human Rights Law. The event was part of a parliamentary conference entitled “Protecting Human Rights, Combating Discrimination, and Addressing HIV/AIDS of Persons with Diverse Sexual Orientation and Gender Identities.” The seminar, which took place October 9-11, 2013, was organized jointly by the Chamber of Deputies of the Dominican Republic and the organization Parliamentarians for Global Action.
Forum on Violations of the Rights of the LGBTI Community
San Juan, Puerto Rico, September 11
On September 11, 2013, Commissioner Tracy Robinson gave a talk at the University of Puerto Rico School of Law, at the “Forum to Assert Violations of the Rights of the LGBTI Community,” sponsored by the Clinic against Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, Pro Bono Sexual Rights UPR, ILSA-UPR and Pangea. The Rapporteur spoke about the IACHR’s work to promote respect for the rights of gays, lesbians, bisexual, trans, and intersex persons.
Oslo Conference on Human Rights, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
Oslo, April 15-16
From April 15-16, 2013, Commissioner Tracy Robinson, in charge of the Unit, and the Principal Specialist attended the Oslo Conference on Human Rights, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, co-hosted by the governments of Norway and South Africa. Commissioner Robinson also acted as moderator for the roundtable “Violence against LGBT Persons”, as well as panelist at the Introductory Panel Debate.
Pre-conference of Civil Society and Regional State Seminar on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
Brasilia, April 3-5
The Principal Specialist of the then-LGBTI Unit participated in the regional civil society pre-conference and the State Regional Seminar on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, organized by the State of Brazil as a preparatory activity to the Oslo Seminar on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.
Conference “Happiness and Sexual Diversity as Human Rights”
San Salvador, March 15
On March 15, 2013, two specialists from the then-LGBTI Unit participated remotely via teleconference in the symposium “Happiness and Sexual Diversity as Human Rights”, organized by Asistencia Legal para la Diversidad Sexual de El Salvador (ALDES), in El Salvador.
2012
Experiences of Political Participation of LGBT Persons in Latin America
Bogota, November 19
On November 19, 2012, a panel discussion was held in Bogotá on "Experiences of Political Participation of LGBT Persons in Latin America," with the participation from Jean Wyllys, Federal Congress member (Brazil); María Rachid, Congresswoman of the City of Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Alejandra González, Councilperson, Lampa Municipality, (Chile). The panel was presided by Commissioner Rodrigo Escobar Gil, IACHR. The moderator was Víctor Madrigal, from the Unit for the Rights of LGBTI Persons, IACHR.
- Watch a video from this panel (in Spanish)
- Read speech by Commissioner Rodrigo Escobar Gil (in Spanish only)
- Photo Gallery on Flickr
First Seminar on strategic litigation and good practice cases on public places focused on LGBT persons
Bogotá, October 18
On October 18, 2012, the human rights specialist that supports the work of the Rapporteurship participated as a panelist in a Seminar on litigation strategies on the rights of LGBTI persons in the Americas, organized by the City of Bogotá.
Conference: Stigma and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the Caribbean Commonwealth
Barbados, October 11
On October 11, 2012, a panel on "Stigma and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity" was held at the West Indies University Law School, Cave Hill Campus, which was jointly organized by the IACHR and the University. Commissioner Rose-Marie Belle Antoine was the keynote speaker debated the challenges faced by LGTBI persons in the countries of the Caribbean Commonwealth.
Regional Course “Contemporary Challenges on the International Protection in the Americas”
Lima, September 26
On September 26, 2012, the Specialist who works at the Unit participated as a panelist in the 10th Regional Course on International Refugee Law in Latin America, organized by UNHCR and aimed at government officials from OAS Member States. The participants had an opportunity to explore the need for international protection of refugees in the case of persons being persecuted because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity and expression.
Challenges on the Protection of Human Rights of Persons Living with HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean
Washington DC, July 23
On July 23, 2012, the then-Unit co-organized with UNAIDS and the Art Museum of the Americas the panel/AIDS Quilt Exhibition entitled “Challenges on the Protection of Human Rights of Persons Living with HIV in Latin America and the Caribbean.” Remarks were given by José Miguel Insulza, Secretary General of the OAS; Jan Beagle, Deputy Executive Director, Management and External Relations, UNAIDS; Patricia Pérez, Chair of the International Community of Women living with HIV/AIDS. The Keynote speech was given by Commissioner Rose-Marie Belle Antoine. This panel was organized in the context of the XIX International AIDS Conference that took place in Washington DC July 22-27, 2012. There was a guided tour of the Aids Quilt by the Names Project Foundation. The event was held at the Art Museum of the Americas.
Interview on the work of the Unit
Bogotá, April 13
On April 13, 2012, Víctor Madrigal Borloz, Principal Specialist of the IACHR, gave a presentation on the work of the Unit and provided information on the Commission’s system of petitions, cases and precautionary measures at the Universidad Jorge Tadeo Lozano in Bogotá.
- Watch the video of the presentation (in Spanish only)