In the Cuban port city of Matanzas, the Rev. Elaine Saralegui leads an LGBTQ+ inclusive church where same-sex couples are welcomed to worship freely. This type of gathering would have been unimaginable in Cuba before, where anti-gay hostility was widespread. The country repressed gay people after the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro, but in recent years, it has become more tolerant of religions. A government-backed “family law” approved in 2022 allowed same-sex couples the right to marry and adopt, marking a milestone for the LGBTQ+ community in Cuba.
Despite the Catholic Church’s rejection of same-sex marriage, Pope Francis has made efforts to make the church more inclusive. In December, the pope approved letting Catholic priests bless same-sex couples while maintaining the ban on gay marriage. The family law in Cuba faced opposition from the country’s Catholic church as well as from evangelical churches. Anti-LGBTQ+ rights demonstrations have faded since 2022, but evangelical pastors previously spoke out against the measure, calling gay relationships a sin. Despite this opposition, the law was approved by nearly 67% of voters.
The movement for LGBTQ+ rights in Cuba has been led by Mariela Castro, daughter of former President Raul Castro. She has been advocating for same-sex marriage rights for years and has been actively involved in training police on relations with the LGBTQ+ community. Mariela Castro believes that the passing of the family law in Cuba is a valuable step forward and celebrates the newfound recognition of LGBTQ+ rights in the country. Her uncle, Fidel Castro, admitted in 2010 that he was wrong to discriminate against gay people, marking a turning point in public attitude towards LGBTQ+ rights in Cuba.
The new family law in Cuba goes beyond just marriage equality for LGBTQ+ couples. It also expands rights for children, the elderly, and women, marking a significant advancement in legal protections for marginalized groups in the country. Saralegui’s congregation in Matanzas began over a decade ago on a house terrace, eventually converting a house into their church with support from the LGBTQ+ affirming Metropolitan Community Churches. The church has become a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals in Matanzas, providing a welcoming environment for worship and community support. Congregants like Nico Salazar have found solace in this church after facing rejection from other religious institutions for embracing their gender identity.
The passing of the family law in Cuba has brought hope and acceptance to the LGBTQ+ community in the country. Despite past repression and discrimination, LGBTQ+ individuals are now able to openly embrace their gender identity and participate in religious gatherings without fear of exclusion. The church in Matanzas serves as an example of inclusivity and acceptance, providing a sacred space for LGBTQ+ individuals to worship freely. As Cuba continues to progress towards greater LGBTQ+ rights, individuals like Rev. Elaine Saralegui and Mariela Castro are leading the way in advocating for equality and acceptance for all.
