How One Mexican Artist Fights Discrimination with Pride-Inspired Art

It’s through art and photography that we create dialogue about important issues like LGBTQ rights. Luis Ruiz shares how he uses art to carry the love of Pride onward.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico City, I am constantly reminded that I live in a very traditional place, with older generations that are very out of touch.

Many years ago, it wasn’t okay to be gay. And who knows where we’ll be in fifty more: the fight for LGBTQ+ rights has been a tough battle – but as Pride shows, we’re just getting started.

I create illustrations that represent members of my community and carry on the sentiment of Pride.

My commitment to art for change is year-round, but I take action during Pride by capturing the experiences of my LGBTQ community in Mexico, as art has the rare ability to take the sentiment of a moment and spread it to homes and hearts that Pride may never otherwise reach.

By creating art that captures the soul of our movement, we have the power to start a conversation, and those conversations lead to empathy, change, and a new generation of commitment to love over all else.

Pride is a celebration of love. It is a celebration for those of us who no longer have to hide. For those who no longer have to fear; who no longer have to worry about acceptance – for they have found refuge in their communities, in their families, and for some, in their art.

Art brings permanence to the embrace that comforts every marcher, dancer, and believer of the truth that being queer is something to be proud of.

Suddenly, it’s not about celebrating for one day. We create to carry the sentiment of Pride onward throughout the year, and use that positivity to fuel activism for generations to come.

But we must remember that pride is a party, yes. But at it’s core, it’s a riot. It’s punk to be queer. It always will be.

I wasn’t the only one creating for change – people from around the world are capturing the love felt at Pride. Photo by Sarah May.

We are fighters. We are changemakers. We are the ones who will break through boundaries to make certain that the future is as bright as we are. That’s why I create art that brings attention to the LGBTQ+ homeless youth, the racial minorities, the ones who haven’t yet found their voice. Because before the rainbow comes the storm – I want young people to see my art and know it’s going to be okay.

This is just the beginning.

Cover photo by Arielle Scarcella.