- Mancomunidad la Vega, comprising Algorfa, Jacarilla, Redován, and San Miguel de salinas, launches “La Vega Diversidad” to promote LGTBIQ+ inclusion.
- Focus on combating hate speech, discrimination, and bullying especially in schools via workshops and online advisory.
- Key initiatives include ”Respeto” workshops, Adisex Jove online counseling, participation in Jacarilla Fest 2025, and the #lavegasepintadearcoiris campaign.
- The project encourages early education on diversity to foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful community.
- Mancomunidad la vega aligned with FEMP’s equality manifesto in support of LGTBIQ+ rights and visibility.
La Vega Diversidad: A Project Championing LGTBIQ+ Inclusion and Respect
The Mancomunidad la Vega, an alliance of four municipalities in Spain - Algorfa, Jacarilla, Redován, and San Miguel de Salinas – has unveiled an inspiring initiative named “La Vega Diversidad”. Launched in honor of the Día del Orgullo LGTBIQ+ (LGTBIQ+ Pride Day), this project aims to promote respect, inclusion, and equality for the LGTBIQ+ community, with a special emphasis on children and young people.
Why “La Vega Diversidad” Matters
Studies by public institutions and social organizations reveal a worrying persistence of discriminatory attitudes, bullying, and violence against LGTBIQ+ individuals, especially in educational settings. This reality highlights the urgent need for initiatives like La Vega Diversidad that proactively combat hate and discrimination early on.
According to data from various research, LGTBIQ+ youth often experience:
- School bullying and harassment
- Verbal and physical violence
- Social rejection and exclusion
In response, La Vega Diversidad focuses on empowering youth with knowledge and tools to foster inclusivity and tolerance in their communities.
Key Actions of the La Vega Diversidad Project
| Initiative | Description | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| “Respeto” Workshops | Interactive sessions teaching gender diversity, inclusivity, and rejection of hate. | Students in 5th grade Primary & 1st year secondary School |
| Adisex Jove Online Counseling | A confidential service providing personalized sexual diversity advice and emotional support. | Youth and adolescents |
| Jacarilla Fest 2025 Participation | Rainbow point installation and informative stand to raise awareness and visibility. | Festival attendees and community members |
| #lavegasepintadearcoiris Campaign | Social media actions and digital building decorations promoting LGTBIQ+ inclusion. | General public and institutional partners |
A Strong Message from Leadership
Nely Ruiz, President of the Mancomunidad and Mayor of redován, emphasized the crucial role of education from an early age:
“At Mancomunidad la Vega, we firmly beleive in educating in respect and diversity from a young age. With ‘La Vega Diversidad,’ we want to make a step forward to ensure our municipalities are safe, inclusive spaces free of discrimination. We invite all citizens to join this commitment as only through unity and empathy can we create a fairer and more respectful society.”
– Nely Ruiz, President of Mancomunidad la Vega
The Broader Vision: Unity and Equality
The Día del Orgullo LGTBIQ+ offers an annual reminder that diversity enriches society. The Mancomunidad la Vega’s commitment extends beyond a single day, promoting ongoing respect, freedom, and coexistence for all, regardless of identity or gender expression.
In a significant move, the Mancomunidad also adhered to the FEMP’s institutional manifesto for equality, reinforcing its dedication to the principles of respect and inclusion at public and community levels.
How You Can Support La Vega Diversidad
- Participate or encourage children and youth to join ”Respeto” workshops in local schools.
- Spread awareness on social media using the hashtag #lavegasepintadearcoiris.
- Attend Jacarilla Fest 2025 and support the inclusion initiatives.
- Promote conversations about diversity and respect in your communities.
La vega Diversidad stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the fight for LGTBIQ+ rights and social inclusion in the Vega area - making strides toward a kinder, safer, and more open society.