Biography:
Angélica Lozano Correa (born 7 May 1976) is a Colombian lawyer, politician, and LGBTQ+ rights activist. She holds the distinction of being the first openly bisexual legislator in the history of Colombia. Lozano has been an unwavering advocate for human rights throughout her political career, with a particular focus on advancing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
Lozano’s passion for political activism and human rights advocacy first emerged while she was studying law. In 1998, during her time in law school, she volunteered with the NGO Opción Colombia in the Puerto Nariño – Amazonas region. As a legal advisor to the mayor, she dedicated herself to protecting the rights of indigenous communities.
Following this experience, Lozano worked as an advisor to two independent Senators, Íngrid Betancourt from 2000 to 2001, and Antonio Navarro Wolff from 2001 to 2005. During this period, she focused on constitutional measures and became deeply involved in politics, ultimately playing a pivotal role in the co-founding of the Independent Democratic Pole party in 2003.
In 2005, Lozano embarked on her own political career when she served as the Mayor of the Chapinero district of Bogotá until 2008. This position allowed her to gain valuable experience in local governance, further fueling her passion for creating positive change within her community.
In 2011, Lozano’s commitment to public service led her to be elected to the city council of Bogotá. This marked another significant milestone in her political journey, as she continued to fight for the rights of marginalized communities and advocate for inclusive policies.
However, it was her election to the Chamber of Representatives of Colombia in 2014 that truly made history. As a candidate of the Green Alliance Party, Lozano became the first openly LGBT legislator at the national level in Colombia. Her groundbreaking achievement broke barriers and paved the way for future LGBTQ+ representation in the country’s political landscape.
Throughout her time in office, Lozano has been a vocal proponent of equal rights for same-sex couples. Colombia legalized same-sex partnerships in 2011, but Lozano believes there is still work to be done to ensure full recognition and rights for same-sex partners. She has been a tireless advocate for advancing legislation that would grant same-sex couples the same marriage rights as heterosexual couples. Her passion and dedication to this cause have earned her widespread respect and admiration within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
Lozano’s efforts to protect the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals extend beyond her own country. She has been a staunch opponent of proposals that would restrict the rights of same-sex couples, such as a 2014 push for a referendum on same-sex couples’ adoption rights. Lozano made it clear that fundamental rights should not be subject to a popular vote, firmly asserting that human dignity and fundamental rights are not decided in a referendum. Her unwavering stance demonstrates her commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice, not only in Colombia but also on a global scale.
In addition to her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, Lozano continues to champion various human rights issues. Her influential role in shaping policy and legislation has had a significant impact on Colombian society, driving forward progress and fostering inclusivity.
Awards:
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