Mayor Ismael Burgueño of Tijuana acknowledged the efforts by Casa de Luz Tijuana during its official opening as this shelter provides refuge, support, and guidance to members of the LGBTIQ+ migrant community. He also underscored that the 25th City Hall of Tijuana consistently promotes inclusion in all areas of public life for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“This City Hall, which I am honored to lead, has a commitment to being a humanistic, inclusive, and supportive administration, where the human rights of those who have historically been marginalized are represented, respected, and protected. I am convinced that with the active participation of everyone, we can take concrete steps toward building a fairer, more equitable, and inclusive society, free of discrimination,” he said.
At the event, Mayor Burgueño Ruiz of Tijuana welcomed and greeted his San Diego counterpart, Todd Gloria, who was also invited to this opening ceremony. Both leaders reaffirmed Tijuana’s and San Diego’s commitment to continue working in a coordinated manner.
“I recognize the effort and work that the founders of Casa de Luz have carried out to support and highlight the needs of their community. I reiterate that they have the full support of the 25th City Hall of Tijuana to continue doing this important work,” the municipal president said.
The mayor of Tijuana stated that those currently staying at the shelter with their families—people applying for asylum to enter the United States after being displaced from their hometowns due to several circumstances—are welcome in Tijuana. Here, they will be treated with full respect for their dignity and human rights.
Carlos Irving Mondragón Prado, Director of Casa de Luz Tijuana, stated that the formal opening of this shelter is a tribute to a space born out of the need for a home where migrants could stay while waiting for their asylum applications to be resolved.
Located in Playas de Tijuana, this shelter’s official inauguration represents a fundamental step in the fight for inclusion, respect, and protection of the rights of LGBTIQ+ migrants and their families.
At the end of the ceremony, the mayors of Tijuana and San Diego were given a tour of the facilities by representatives of Casa de Luz, where they also aim to raise awareness about the importance of solidarity and respect for the diversity of communities.
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