Yucatan Unveils First ‘Safe Space’ Plaques to Promote LGBTIQ+ Inclusion

Officials unveil a 'Safe Space' plaque at Paseo Verde in Merida, Yucatan, as part of an LGBTIQ+ inclusion initiative.

Mérida, Yucatán — The Yucatan government has unveiled the first plaques of its “Espacios para Todxs” (Spaces for Everyone) strategy at Paseo Verde in Mérida, marking an institutional recognition of inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory public spaces.

The initiative, led by the state’s Youth Secretariat (Sejuvey) in coordination with the Institute of Mobility and Urban Territorial Development (Imdut), aims to create a network of safe spaces where LGBTIQ+ individuals and others can gather freely.

“We firmly believe that new generations have the right to develop fully, express their identity freely, and participate in environments where they feel heard, valued, and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation, identity, or gender expression,” said Carla Couoh Cuevas, head of the Youth Secretariat.

The event drew about 150 people, including families, entrepreneurs, children, youth, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community. Activities included a community bike ride, a bazaar featuring LGBTIQ+ entrepreneurs, artistic performances, a drag show, and a musical presentation by Nathan Galarza.

César Briceño Castro, head of the Inclusion of Diverse Persons unit at Sejuvey, said the campaign seeks to generate ongoing actions that strengthen inclusion, respect, and positive use of public spaces.

The “Espacios para Todxs” strategy plans to gradually install plaques in public spaces across the state, building a network of recognized safe and inclusive locations that actively promote human rights, non-discrimination, and community coexistence.

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By Staff Desk

The Riviera Maya News & Events Staff Desk covers local events, cultural celebrations, community stories, and general news from across the Riviera Maya and Yucatán Peninsula. The Staff Desk produces timely coverage of festivals, municipal announcements, community initiatives, and stories that don't fall under a single specialist beat, ensuring that every corner of the region receives balanced attention.The Staff Desk draws from municipal calendars, event organizers, community submissions, and official announcements to keep English-speaking readers informed about what's happening in their communities — from charity events and school programs to local government services and cultural exhibitions.When individual bylines are not used, the Staff Desk attribution reflects collaborative reporting by the editorial team, with the same editorial standards, fact-checking, and translation review applied to every story.