File GAL - G.A.L.E.E.S.

G.A.L.E.E.S. (Spanish acronym: Action Group for Free Expression of Sexual Choice) was an independent organization founded in Havana around 1996 dedicated to fighting homophobia and promoting sexual liberation. Their main strategy to achieve these goals was designing and coordinating activities. Its members, some belonging to the Gay and Lesbian Association of Cuba (Asociación Cubana de Homosexuales y Lesbianas or ACHL), led the group through a Board of Directors with a parallel leadership structure. Its principal members were José Enrique Pineda, Jorge Luis Torres, Lizbet Gispert, Amaury Fernández, [Odaymar] Cuesta and Joel Feal. G.A.L.E.E.S. took a critical stance against the official rhetoric, refuting the argument that marginalized communities were already integrated into, and respected by, Cuban society. Additionally, the group advocated for spaces dedicated to “sexual minorities,” arguing that their purpose was not to create divisions, but rather to include and empower those who felt excluded because of their sexual identity.