Mexico’s First Openly Non-Binary Magistrate and LGBTQIA+ Activist Found Dead

Tragic news emerged from Mexico as Ociel Baena, the country’s first openly non-binary magistrate and a prominent LGBTQIA+ activist, was discovered lifeless in their home in the central state of Aguascalientes, Mexican authorities confirmed on Monday.

Ociel Baena’s tireless efforts to champion the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community had garnered widespread acclaim and admiration across Latin America.

Mexico’s Security Minister, Rosa Icela Rodriguez, addressed the media during the president’s regular morning press conference, stating that authorities are currently investigating the cause of Baena’s untimely demise. “We are yet to determine if it was a homicide or an accidental incident,” she revealed.

In a historic moment, Baena was inaugurated as a magistrate on the Aguascalientes state electoral tribunal in October 2022. The ceremony took place beneath the vibrant colors of the rainbow flag, as Baena proudly shared a photo on the social media platform X, accompanied by the caption “Making history.”

The Aguascalientes state prosecutor’s office issued a statement disclosing that Baena’s lifeless body was discovered alongside another individual, who local media identified as Baena’s partner.

Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate no presence of a third party at the scene, leading authorities to consider the possibility that the deaths may be linked to a “personal matter,” as stated in the official statement. Forensic experts are currently conducting a thorough analysis to determine the exact cause of death.

In honor of Baena’s legacy, LGBTQ activists have organized vigils and demonstrations in Aguascalientes, Mexico City, Monterrey, and other major cities throughout the country on Monday night.

Human rights organizations are calling for a comprehensive investigation into whether Baena’s tragic demise was influenced by their gender identity.

Expressing his deep sorrow, Arturo Zaldivar, the former chief justice of Mexico’s Supreme Court, paid tribute to Baena in a heartfelt social media post. “We have lost a powerful advocate for equality and the rights of LGBTI+ individuals,” he shared.

-Reuters