Thousands of Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday to defend minority rights and express outrage over President Javier Milei’s recent comments on “woke ideology” and feminism. The protesters, many of whom were gay or lesbian, held rainbow flags and placards that read “Not a step back.” Organized by women’s and LGBTQ+ groups, the march was backed by trade unions and opposition politicians.
Milei’s statements, made at the World Economic Forum in Davos, sparked widespread indignation. He called for an end to what he described as the “mental virus of woke ideology” and criticized “radical feminism.” His administration claimed Milei was being unfairly maligned, but many saw his comments as a threat to progressive values.
The 18-year-old Alicia Gonzalez, who is gay, said she felt attacked by Milei’s words. Ricardo Buchet, a 71-year-old pensioner, marched in solidarity, saying it was a test of empathy for Argentine citizens who feel oppressed under the president’s rule.
Milei, a libertarian former economist, has been compared to Donald Trump and has taken steps to undermine progressive policies, including dissolving the Ministry of Women, Gender and Diversity. Argentina is one of nine Latin American countries that allow same-sex marriage.
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20250202-argentines-march-defence-diversity-blasting-milei-anti-woke-diatribes-buenos-aires