To promote understanding and awareness of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities and to create an inclusive environment, the Iloilo Provincial Government, through its Gender and Development (GAD) Program, conducted an advocacy forum dubbed 'Safe Spaces for All: a Conference on SOGIE-SC' on December 7, 2023, at Sotogrande Hotel, Iloilo City.
UP Instructor under the Division of Social Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Ms. Xenia Monica B. Cabrias, RPm, presented the discussion on 'Rainbow-Proofing my Space: a Conversation on Being a Better Ally.' She emphasized that the goal is to actively work towards dismantling prejudices and promoting a society and workplace where everyone is respected and treated with dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
On the other hand, Retired Colonel Ma. Cecilia Detablan, President of Anti-Trafficking in Persons Advocates Network Inc. (ATIPAN), discussed the Salient Features of the 'Safe Spaces Act' (RA 11313) and other related anti-sexual harassment laws. She stressed that the laws seek to establish legal protections for individuals of diverse SOGIE, ensuring their rights are respected and preventing discrimination. She reinforces the importance of creating safe spaces where people can express their identity without fear of prejudice or harm.
The activity aligns with the observance of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW) by the IPG from November 25 to December 12, 2023.
(cbg/PPDO)