BogotÃ¡’s local government has launched Gender Diversity Week to promote LGBT rights.

Created by politicians with the help of LGBT rights activists, Gender Diversity Week raises awareness of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity through various social events.

The week’s political and cultural activities include demonstrations, lectures and a campaign that encourages the registration of transgender men and women, to facilitate the name-change process for trans individuals.

‘Vaccinations Against HomoLesBiTransphobia’ is another campaign taking place throughout the city’s public hospitals to promote sexual diversity and full access to health without discrimination.

Activists and politicians are utilizing social media to its full capacity to promote Gender Diversity Week. Two photography contests will be held until 21 October, looking for photo submissions best representing sexual and gender diversity in Bogota under the hashtag #SeTuSeConmigo.

Juan Carlos Prieto, Sexual Diversity Director of the District Planning Secretary said in an interview: ‘The activities put forth for Gender Diversity Week will allow for the LGBTI community to share its experiences and help in the building of political, cultural and educational bodies.’

The city’s government agencies including district registries, art institutes and libraries are sponsoring the events in conjunction with LGBT rights groups.

Launched under the theme ‘Sé tÃº, sé conmigo’ (Be Yourself, Be With Me), Gender Diversity Week’s activities are meant to incorporate and inform the local community about LGBT issues in BogotÃ¡, particularly hate-crime violence and discrimination.

In a recent study released by the District Planning Secretary, 20% of Bogota’s citizens believe that LGBT people are a risk to the community. Only 46% of the persons interviewed admitted to ever speaking to someone whom they identified as gay, lesbian, bi or transgender.

Gender Diversity Week will conclude on 21 October with two mass bicycle rides that will finish in Bogota’s National Park.