In the vast landscape of Argentina’s educational system, where 3.8 million students attend nearly 12,000 secondary schools, one institution stands out for its pioneering mission – the “Bachillerato Popular Travesti-Trans Mocha Celis.” Established in 2011, this groundbreaking school is on a mission to promote equality for trans and nonbinary individuals within formal education. Notably, it was the world’s first of its kind and is dedicated to the memory of Mocha Celis, a transgender individual whose tragic murder in the Flores neighborhood remains shrouded in mystery.
Today, twelve years since its inception, the “Mocha,” as affectionately called by its students, has grown to accommodate 290 high school students. It has become a shining beacon of hope for the LGBTQ+ community, inspiring the establishment of similar schools in various cities and countries worldwide.
The Visionary Leader
Francisco Quiñones Cuartas, one of the visionary creators of this unique educational space, currently serves as the school’s director and president of the associated civil association. During a recent conversation, he shared insights into the school’s journey, the challenges faced, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.
“We began with a vision of providing transgender individuals with the opportunity to complete their high school education,” Cuartas explained. “Over time, we expanded our reach, and following the pandemic, we became a civil association with eleven programs and projects working in tandem with the school. Our goal is to dismantle the barriers obstructing access to fundamental rights.”
Education as a Lifeline
Access to education in an environment free from discrimination is a monumental achievement for the transgender population, which, as per a recent report by the Public Defender’s Office, faces an average life expectancy of just 35 to 40 years in Argentina. For many, sex work becomes the sole source of income.
Even though Argentina has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights compared to its regional counterparts, such as the Equal Marriage Law in 2010 and the Gender Identity Law in 2012, many transgender individuals still grapple with systemic challenges. The recent “Cupo Laboral Travesti Trans” law in 2021, which reserves 1% of National State positions for transgender individuals, represents another step forward in this ongoing struggle.
The Heart of Change
The “Mocha Celis” school has transformed the lives of its students, offering a lifeline to those who once faced daunting odds. Lariana Guerrerola, a student at Mocha Celis, reflects, “Beginning to study was like starting to dream of another life. Going back to school has been the most beautiful experience I’ve had in recent years.”
This pioneering initiative is not just an educational institution; it’s a crucible for change. Francisco Quiñones Cuartas highlighted, “We were born as a school but became more than an educational space. We are a place of access to rights so the trans community can express its full potential. Education and culture are the pillars of this project.”
With initiatives like the Teje Solidario project, Mocha Celis extends comprehensive support to its community members, facilitating access to healthcare, preventing evictions, and fostering economic independence.
In conclusion, Mocha Celis is not just a school; it’s a sanctuary of empowerment for transgender and non-binary individuals in Argentina. It serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that education is the first step toward dismantling barriers, achieving dreams, and securing a brighter future. The students of Mocha Celis are not just learners; they are the architects of their own destiny, challenging stereotypes and advocating for a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their gender identity.