A Controversial Appointment at the Heart of Colombian Politics

Colombia is currently at the center of a heated political debate following the appointment of Juan Carlos Florián as the new Minister for Equality. At 42 years old, Florián is a former adult film actor and sex worker who has since become a prominent LGBTQI+ rights activist and a well-known advocate for social inclusion. His official inauguration as minister is expected later this week.

🧵Colombia’s new Equality Minister, Juan Carlos Florián @juanflorians is a former sex worker and porn actor, living with HIV, AND a political scientist with 20+ years in human rights advocacy. He had been serving as deputy Minister of Equality since April. pic.twitter.com/yhvRXcRMje

— Yes, We Exist 🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈 (@YesWeExistIndia) August 4, 2025

From Marginalization to Social Advocacy

After fleeing Colombia due to threats related to his sexual orientation, Florián relocated to Paris, where he continued to engage in sex work. Simultaneously, he became an outspoken advocate for marginalized communities. He is known for founding Colombia’s first labor union representing sex workers, emphasizing his deep commitment to social justice and labor rights.

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A Political Career Already Underway

Long before this latest announcement, Florián had already entered the public sphere. He previously held a position with Bogotá’s Secretariat for Social Integration during the mayoral tenure of Gustavo Petro—now the nation’s president. Standing by his decision, President Petro declared, “We are the government of change. We seek equality. The conflicts within the Equality Ministry are merely internal disputes.”

Responding to Public Backlash

Criticism of Florián’s past emerged earlier this year when he was named Vice Minister for Equality. Addressing the controversy in an interview with El Espectador, Florián stated, “I was more than just a porn actor. I have over two decades of experience in international organizations. I’ve been a public servant and hold a degree in political science.”

A Bold Stance on Sex Work

As a longtime advocate for sex workers’ rights, Florián supports a non-stigmatizing and inclusive approach to the profession. “It’s a job like any other,” he has affirmed. “We cannot stigmatize those who do this work to support their families. They are members of the working class.”

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