Bridgetown, Barbados, 1 June 2025 (PAHO) - Barbados officially launched Pride Month 2025 under the inspiring theme “More Than an Existence, A Life!” at an event hosted at the PAHO/WHO Office in Bridgetown. The launch, organized by Equals Barbados with the support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), marked the beginning of a month-long celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, culture, and resilience.
The event brought together members of the LGBTQI+ community, community leaders, allies, advocates, and partners, including H.E. Brenda Wills, High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados, Miriam Van Nie, Counsellor (Political), High Commission of Canada, Charley Williams, Deputy British High Commissioner and HM Consul, Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, and Dr. Carlene Radix, Assistant Dean, Community Medicine and Global Health, Ross University School of Medicine. This underscores the shared commitment to health equity, social inclusion, and the elimination of stigma and discrimination.
Voices of Leadership
The launch began with welcoming remarks from Rondell Trim, Executive Director of Equals Barbados. In his address, he highlighted the significance of Pride Month in affirming the humanity of LGBTQ+ individuals:
“This year’s theme, ‘More Than an Existence, A Life!’ is about moving beyond survival to truly living,” said Rondell Trim. “It is about creating a society where LGBTQ+ people are not only seen and acknowledged but are empowered to thrive.”
Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, delivered opening remarks emphasizing PAHO’s dedication to ensuring everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live with dignity and without discrimination.
“Pride Month is an opportunity to reaffirm that health is a human right,” said Dr. Del Riego. “Everyone deserves to live free from stigma and to access health services in safe, affirming environments.”
Exploring History and Advocacy
A highlight of the event was a historical symposium featuring diverse perspectives on the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean:
· Dr. Nastassia Rambarran traced the History of Pride Celebrations in the region, reflecting on progress and ongoing challenges.
· Taitu Heron delivered an insightful presentation on “Fair in Form, Biased in Function: Policing, Colonial Legacy, and LGBTQ+ Interactions in the Eastern Caribbean,” exploring the interplay of historical legacies and modern-day realities.
· Didi Winston presented The History of Pageantry and Drag in Barbados, highlighting how creative expression drives cultural visibility and advocacy.
· Joanne Jordan centered the voices of LBQ women with her presentation, “We Were Always Here: LBQ Women in Barbados,” shedding light on often-overlooked experiences.
Pride Month 2025: A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion
Running through July 5, the Pride Month celebrations will include a series of community events such as the annual Pride Hike and the vibrant Pride Party Finale. These activities aim to foster connection, build community, and honour the rich diversity of Barbados’s LGBTQ+ community.
PAHO’s Ongoing Commitment
PAHO remains steadfast in its partnership with Equals Barbados and other local organizations to promote health equity and social justice for LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes initiatives to eliminate barriers to care, reduce health disparities, and ensure that all people can access the services they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
As Pride Month 2025 unfolds, Barbados affirm that everyone has the right to live “More Than an Existence, A Life!” with dignity, joy, and full participation in society.
For more information on Pride Month events and PAHO’s work in advancing health and equity for LGBTQ+ communities, visit www.paho.org or follow Equals Barbados on Facebook and Instagram.
