Denise Quiñones, the actress, singer and winner of the Miss Universe crown in 2001, made a strong statement today in support of the changes proposed in the draft of the Family Book of the Puerto Rican Civil Code. "I have always believed that all human beings are equal and I just couldn't remain silent while a debate is taking place back home on the rights and protections that every family in Puerto Rico should enjoy. Our legal framework has to recognize the reality in which we live, which is why I am supporting the recognition of civil unions for same sex couples, as well as for heterosexual couples," said Quiñones.Quiñones, who is currently pursuing acting opportunities in film and television in Los Angeles, California, broke her silence in the hope that her words will inspire other artistic colleagues and Puerto Rican personalities to express themselves on this crucial topic. Additionally, she specifically urged those personalities who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender or have LGBT relatives to share their stories and, in doing so, bring a human perspective to the debate.
"Even though I do not currently live in Puerto Rico, I have always represented my Island with love and humility wherever I might be, which is why in this moment that my lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender brothers and sisters need me, I say 'Here I am!'" said Quiñones.
Quiñones, who recently was granted an ACE award for Best Theatre Actress, is aware that the current draft of the Civil Code would also grant transsexuals the right to change their birth certificates to reflect their current gender but pointedly noted that even transgender individuals who have yet to undergo gender reassignment surgery or opt not to have it should also have access to the same right.
"I would also like to express my support for the right of transgender individuals to change the gender in a birth certificate, since they are only trying to change these legal documents to reflect the reality in which they live. I am aware that the current draft of the Civil Code, if approved, would grant this right to transsexuals but it should include every transgender person that seeks to change his or her certificate under the vast right to liberty allowed under our Constitution."
Finally, Ms. Quiñones called on everyone to see this public debate as an opportunity to bring together the Puerto Rican family and invited all to visit the Puerto Rico Para Tod@s web portal (www.prparatodos.org) where they can register and send the Legislature messages of support for these changes in the Civil Code.
"Let's take advantage of this historic moment to learn, to get to know more about our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender relatives and to welcome them into our hearts. Let's follow our best hope for justice, inclusion and equality. Let's fight so that everyone in Puerto Rico has the same rights. So that no one is left on the sidelines. It is everyone's responsibility."
