by Gabriel de la Cruz Soler (he/him), Sr. Manager, Global Impact Program, Out & Equal

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This brief interaction highlighted the broader struggle many of us face across Latin America—a struggle where legal recognition and equality remain elusive. However, my recent trip to Latin America, where I attended the GNetwork360 conference hosted by Argentina’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce, left me feeling hopeful. 

From engaging discussions with Out & Equal’s corporate partners in Argentina to collaborative dialogues with Mais Diversidade in Brazil, one truth became evident: the progress we’ve made, though insufficient, is too valuable to be reversed.  

My journey concluded with an inspiring meeting with the Out & Equal Business Inclusion Council in Brazil where I connected with passionate leaders advancing LGBTQI+ rights across the region to plan our next conference in that country. 

In the US, corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts have recently faced challenges. While some companies are reassessing their DEI approach, most maintain a strong commitment to inclusive workplaces because being more inclusive is smart business in an increasingly diverse world. In contrast, Latin America is experiencing an overall more positive trend, with increasing corporate engagement in DEI initiatives. 

DEI leaders in Latin America are focused on creating more trans-inclusive workplaces that help trans and nonbinary individuals thrive and succeed. They are ensuring their LGBTQI+ employees’ growth and success in environments where laws on marriage equality and gender identity still lag. And we’re making progress. In our own Out & Equal research, “Necessary Change: Achieving Full LGBTQI+ Workplace Inclusion in Argentina”, 76% of those surveyed did not feel like they need to hide who they are at work. 

These leaders are working tirelessly to close gender gaps, eliminate sexual harassment against women, and confront deep-rooted racism. Accessibility and climate change are key themes interwoven into sustainability plans across the region. 

Latin America finds itself at a pivotal moment—a crossroads where, despite challenges from the global north, an opportunity to rise and create is upon us. 

Three lessons from my trip are fueling my hope, and I’d like to share them with you. 

1. Authenticity: Embracing Our Own Story 

Latin America is a mosaic of cultures and identities. Diversity is not just a buzzword here—it’s embedded in our very being. Anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric isn’t part of our DNA; it was imposed through colonization and is now resurfacing in the form of the global north’s “anti-woke” movement. But that’s not our fight. We have the opportunity to craft our own stories and strategies to uplift LGBTQI+ individuals, while staying informed about global DEI trends. 

In Latin America, the trans community has historically led the LGBTQI+ movement. We can learn much from their courage and resilience, as well as from our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are rich resources of internal knowledge, providing safe spaces for members to share perspectives that can shape the future of corporate inclusion.  

Let’s continue to amplify these voices—authenticity is our strength. 

2. Resistance: Thriving in Adversity 

Political uncertainty is nothing new to us. Our diversity and inclusion efforts were born in environments more hostile than many of the challenges we face today. We’ve navigated hyperinflation, corruption, and political upheavals, and through it all, we’ve continued to grow stronger. 

Companies in Latin America, particularly national ones, are beginning to address diversity—though LGBTQI+ issues are often left out of the conversation. This gap presents immense potential. By engaging more deeply with local businesses, sharing knowledge, and mentoring them in DEI practices, we can create lasting impact. 

Together, we’ve always been more resilient, and now, more than ever, we must unite and resist the rising tides of division. 

3. Solidarity: A Collective Spirit of Progress 

One defining characteristic of Latin Americans is our innate sense of solidarity. We don’t wait for change to come from above—we create it. Countless volunteer hours go into crafting initiatives that not only promote diversity but uplift the entire LGBTQI+ community. While the business case is crucial, our real mission is to ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive. 

As the US grapples with its own challenges to DEI initiatives, Latin America is moving forward with resilience, authenticity, and unwavering solidarity. Our region has the power to lead the way, inspiring the world with the strength and creativity we’ve cultivated since childhood. It’s in our DNA to use whatever privilege or power we have to uplift those around us. 

Solidarity is our revolution, and with each return to Latin America, I feel profoundly reconnected to its transformative power.