Free to be a person who loves a person

Homophobic persecution and discrimination is rife in large parts of the world, and the rights of
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people are still not recognized or protected by
international law.

Across the globe, the queer community faces multifaceted challenges, from deeply entrenched
societal prejudices to systemic discrimination. They must navigate a world where their identities
are often misunderstood, invalidated, or vilified. Exactly as in Cuba.

Individuals who identify as fluid (Queer) transcend traditional gender boundaries, emphasizing that
love is not confined by gender labels. They celebrate the essence of human connection,
recognizing love for its pure form and not based on societal constructs of gender.

Alejandro, a cuban queer is willing of freedom:
“I’m a fluid person, no matter the gender, I don’t care, I’m a person who loves another person. I
am free to love someone just because I love them and not because they are a man or a woman”

The situation of the queer community in Cuba has experienced significant fluctuations throughout
the years and often faced discrimination, harassment, and institutional prejudice.

However, with the turn of the 21st century, the Cuban state began to slowly shift its stance,
driven in part by the advocacy of various social groups and key figures, such as Mariela Castro,
daughter of former president Raúl Castro.

The Family Code, which was passed by referendum on 25 September 2022, updates the Cuban
Constitution, defines what families can be and guarantees equality for all types of family
structures.
Cuba is now one of 33 countries that recognize same-sex marriage and one of 12 where anti-
LGBT discrimination is illegal.

In Havana, I have portrayed many Cubans who are free to love another person, and it is not
important whether each subject is male or female, S/He is always so special.

Fulvio Bugani
Having immersed myself deeply in the vibrant Cuban community for many months each year since
2009 and my first visit to Cuba was in 2003, I’ve come to truly understand and empathize with its
rich tapestry of stories, aspirations, and struggles.

This profound connection and intimacy with the local culture, traditions, and people has gifted me
a unique perspective, enabling me to appreciate the heart and soul of Cuba in a way few outsiders
ever have the privilege to experience.

Curiosity for the lives of others, love for beauty, the pleasure of human interactions and annoyance
for the globalized and uniform world in which we live have pushed me to portray small
communities and minorities with alternative visions and lives.