NEWS
Pope Francis hosts minority group in support of LGBTQ Community
Vatican City witnessed a significant moment on Sunday, November 19, as Pope Francis welcomed a diverse group of individuals to commemorate the Catholic Church’s World Day of the Poor.
Among the 1,200 poor and homeless guests were approximately 120 transgender women from Torvaianica, located south of Rome, a majority of whom were Latin American migrants employed in the sex trade.
The gathering, hosted by the Pope, highlighted a notable gesture of inclusion and support for marginalized communities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
Seated opposite Francis was Claudia Victoria Salas, a 55-year-old transgender tailor and cleaner originally from Argentina, who expressed her gratitude, saying, ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for us transsexuals. I send the Pope a big kiss!’
In attendance was also Jessica Quintero, who shared her thoughts, saying, ‘It’s beautiful for us trans [women] because we are forgotten. It’s a great pleasure, and a moral boost for us because people often forget about us.’
The event served as a platform for the Pope’s ongoing demonstration of solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Earlier this month, Francis confirmed measures allowing transgender individuals to serve as godparents, witnesses at religious weddings, and receive baptisms, marking a significant step toward inclusivity within the Catholic Church.
