President Luis Guillermo Solís on Friday called on one and all to open their hearts to the new way of understanding diversity, defending the raising of the flag at Casa Presidencial, flying right next to the flag of Costa Rica.
The president said he does mind losing popularity because this is a clear signal that his government is against discrimination.
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“I’m not in a beauty contest, I’m here to do what I have to do and that is govern for everyone”, said Solís.
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Solis added that this (the raising of the flag) is a gesture towards a group of people who have historically been marginalized. Defending his decision, like the rainbow flag of diversity outside, in his office he has a replica of the Virgen de los Angeles, the patron saint of Costa Rica.
The raising of the flag was early Friday morning, one day ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (today May 17).
The raising of the flag was demonstrated against by a group of people outside Casa Presidencial, feeling discomfort, though some did commend the President for his action.
The opposed say the flag does not represent them and the general population in Costa Rica and therefore should be flying at Casa Presidencial, which is the home of all Costaricans.
I think homosexuality is a sin and an abomination. But I think there are many sins and abomination like rape and murder. As a Christian I believe you hate the sin, not the sinner. I applaud our president. If more politician were less worried about being popular – then we would be in much better shape. Do I support the lifestyle, No, Do I support raising the flag. Not really, but I see the point. Our country as a government and as as a people need to define ourselves. I think this is another step that further defines our legacy of tolerance. Bold move by El Presidente! Pura Vida