Name: Fernanda Janeth Ramos

Identity: Trans

Candidacy: National Deputy for Salta

Political party: Union for the Fatherland

List: 503 Union for Happiness of Salta

Position on the list: 3rd starter

Why does a person from a diverse sexual/cultural background have to be in Congress or the Legislature?

Thanks to our struggles, many of us are able to study and work. Sometimes it's not easy in a society that still clings to outdated ideas, but changing those thoughts and perceptions isn't impossible. It's enough to show the community that we're here to change the world without offending anyone. "Respect others so that you are respected."

When did you decide to run for office and why?

My activism began many years ago. My rise to prominence came during the pandemic, when many were struggling, prompting me to become more vigilant and provide solutions for the LGBTQ+ community, as well as for everyone else. I believe that while I advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, I also believe that other organizations can be supported and defended. It was a year full of goals and projects, which I continue to pursue to this day.

How do you think hatred can be combated through politics?

We must put aside our social, political, and gender differences and finally work together for the good of our community, our province, and even our country. It's lamentable; we were once a world power, and today we are nothing. Young people study or work so they can emigrate to other countries in search of a better future because they no longer feel safe here. Our currency is devalued and worthless... We have to ask ourselves, is this what we want for our future generations?

Did you think of any strategies to respond to the smear campaigns and disinformation against LGBT people in the media?

More than just thinking, it's about demonstrating that the LGBTQ+ community can achieve great changes. We've accomplished great things, like passing the equal marriage law 13 years ago. Defamation and misinformation have existed, exist, and will continue to exist; it's a matter of always speaking the truth, fighting hard, and standing firm in defense of our rights. It might sound harsh to say "turn a deaf ear," but sometimes we're forced to do so in order to move forward without being affected or held back.

How do we prevent a decline in rights?

-We must remain steadfast, continue fighting for our rights. We ask for nothing more than equality. There will always be dissatisfied people in Congress who want to see us defeated, but that is where we must show them that we are stronger than ever.

What is the first project you are going to present?

It's clear we need to strengthen the Trans Employment Quota Law, which isn't being fully implemented. We must continue fighting for the right to own our own homes, the comprehensive Trans Law, and for a new anti-discrimination law and an anti-protest law. The latter only leads to hatred, defamation, and violence. It's a law that, rather than benefiting us, violates our rights and deprives us of the ability to express ourselves freely or to protest when our rights are ignored.

Recommendation

A film, song, book, or cultural experience that politically influenced you?

The Bersuit song “La Argentinidad al palo” (Argentine Identity at its Finest) perfectly captures the essence of Argentine spirit. Another track is “Señor Cobranza” (Mr. Collections), which challenges the political system. The lyrics are highly explicit and protest against Menemism, the political period in power at the time. It denounces the social situation in Argentina following the so-called “1989 crisis” and refers to the links between political power and drug trafficking.