March
14, 2007 � Denise Qui�ones, 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 Qui�ones.
Qui�ones,
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 Qui�ones.
Qui�ones,
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. Qui�ones 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.”
PRESS RELEASE
