Through PADF’s “Somos Comunidad” project and gender and social inclusion strategy (GESI), we recognize the importance of diversity and work to create conditions that include and promote the empowerment of women and the LGBTQI+ community in Colombia.
Corporación Diversa OJORUBÍ is the first indigenous LGBTQI+ organization in Colombia. It began as an informal support group, when 14 young people from the Embera Katío community shared their experiences about the challenges and dangers they face due to their gender and sexual orientation, such as discrimination and domestic violence.
In partnership with OJORUBÍ, PADF has developed capacity-building activities to help their members influence public policy. In 2020, they were able to legally establish their organization through a “Somos Comunidad” initiative. In addition, they received training in human rights, legal issues, and collaborating with local organizations and government institutions in different advocacy spaces.
As a result of this support, OJORUBÍ members now have clarity about their roles and responsibilities. They share leadership and effectively promote their participation in traditional activities such as baton ceremonies and the formation of the Embera Katío indigenous guard. In addition, they work closely with indigenous authorities and other organizations to promote laws that include and protect the rights of LGBTQI+ and indigenous communities.
PADF continues to strengthen the capacities of organizations so that they can strengthen social cohesion and improve security conditions and community co-existence in Colombia.
As a result of this support, OJORUBÍ members now have clarity about their roles and responsibilities. They share leadership and effectively promote their participation in traditional activities such as baton ceremonies and the formation of the Embera Katío indigenous guard. In addition, they work closely with indigenous authorities and other organizations to promote laws that include and protect the rights of LGBTQI+ and indigenous communities.
PADF continues to strengthen the capacities of organizations so that they can strengthen social cohesion and improve security conditions and community co-existence in Colombia.
Facing racism and discrimination has been very difficult, but now as a formal organization, with OJORUBÍ we can speak louder for the LGBTQI+ indigenous people of our municipality.”
Published on June 1, 2023.
Soraya Osorio
Country Director – Colombia
Email: connect@padf.org
