KRALENDIJK – The National Coordinator against Discrimination and Racism (NCDR), Ramin Ganeshram, held an in-depth expert session earlier this week focusing on LGBTQIA+ inclusion on Bonaire. The meeting took place in cooperation with advocacy organization EQ and brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from education, churches, the police, Mental Health Caribbean, the Public Health Department (GGD), physicians, employers, grassroots organizations and Lieutenant Governor John Soliano.
The session included a reflection on an earlier meeting held in April. According to Ganeshram, that conversation has already led to concrete progress. The Protestant Church on Bonaire has taken active steps to create space for LGBTQIA+ members within its congregation by openly discussing the topic and placing inclusion on the agenda. Schools have also begun taking steps to strengthen safety and acceptance for LGBTQIA+ youth.
Participants described the gathering as a “coalition of the willing”: organizations and professionals willing to take responsibility, collaborate and learn from one another. Themes of recognition, understanding and connection were central, with a shared commitment to improving the position of LGBTQIA+ people on the island.
Ganeshram stated that he will continue raising awareness about LGBTQIA+ issues in the Caribbean Netherlands upon his return to the European Netherlands. He also noted that the topic is set to receive increased attention at the administrative level, an important step toward lasting progress.
Effort remains essential
According to the NCDR, meaningful steps were taken during the session, while acknowledging that continued effort remains essential: “Change begins small, and today felt like such a beginning – carried forward by many.”
