Mariela Castro Espín (b. 1962). A Cuban LGBTQ+ rights activist, sexologist, and politician. The daughter of former Cuban President Raúl Castro and feminist revolutionary Vilma Espín, she has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and sexual education in Cuba [Luce Index™ score: 77/100].
As the director of Cuba’s National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX), she has spearheaded campaigns for HIV/AIDS prevention, same-sex marriage, and transgender rights, influencing progressive policy changes in the country.
Early Life and Education
Born in Havana, Mariela Castro Espín was raised in a politically influential family. Her mother, Vilma Espín, was a key figure in the Cuban Revolution and a champion of women’s rights. Castro Espín studied psychology at the University of Havana and later specialized in sexology, focusing on gender and sexuality issues.
Career and Activism
Since becoming director of CENESEX in 2000, Castro Espín has worked to dismantle systemic homophobia and transphobia in Cuba. She successfully lobbied for free gender-affirming surgeries under Cuba’s healthcare system and advocated for the legalization of same-sex marriage, which was approved in a 2022 referendum. Her efforts have drawn both praise and criticism, with some praising her progressive stance while others question the pace of reforms under Cuba’s socialist government.
Political Influence
A member of Cuba’s National Assembly, Castro Espín has pushed for legislative changes to protect LGBTQ+ Cubans from discrimination. Though Cuba remains a one-party state, her work has shifted public discourse on gender and sexuality.
International Recognition
Castro Espín has been featured in global media, including a Time Magazine profile, for her activism. She has collaborated with international organizations like the United Nations on HIV/AIDS and gender equity initiatives.
Personal Life
Openly supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, Castro Espín identifies as heterosexual but has been a vocal ally. She is married to Italian photographer Paolo Titolo.