Marcella De Marco from Uruguay and Angela Alarcon from Peru are part of an international group of transgender advocates who have joined the Italian LGBT organization Jonathan’s Tent on a pilgrimage to the Vatican. This event marks a pivotal moment in the intersection between faith and LGBTQ+ advocacy, as participants seek to engage with religious authorities and promote the inclusion of transgender individuals within Catholic teachings.
The initiative, organized by Jonathan’s Tent, brings together members from diverse backgrounds to address the challenges faced by transgender people in both religious and secular contexts. De Marco and Alarcon, whose personal stories of conversion and acceptance are central to the group’s mission, emphasize the need for dialogue between the Church and LGBTQ+ communities. Their presence at the Vatican underscores the growing interest in religious engagement among transgender individuals seeking validation and support.
While the Vatican has historically taken a conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues, the participation of transgender advocates in such a pilgrimage signals a potential shift in how the Church engages with LGBTQ+ rights. Jonathan’s Tent, which has been active in Italy for years, is now expanding its reach internationally, leveraging the opportunity to foster connections between Catholic institutions and LGBTQ+ advocates. The group’s efforts may pave the way for future conversations on inclusion within religious contexts.