MEXICO CITY (Reuters) – A soccer team in Mexico’s capital is shooting for greater inclusion for the LGBT community by relying on the widespread love of Latin America’s most popular sport.
Mexico City’s “Muxes”, named after the indigenous transgender women who have been part of southern Mexican communities for centuries, offer a unique space for LGBT people in a conservative nation of 126 million people.
“We’re breaking many stereotypes,” said 47-year-old soccer player, Jesus Trejo.
The Muxes, whose black uniforms feature a rose and a soccer ball, has gained prominence and is being sponsored by Nike.
Muxes’ founder Geremia Oleta said the club is looking to add a team for female players to be even more inclusive.
“Playing on an LGBT team is different,” said 25-year-old footballer Humberto Ramirez.
“No one discriminates against you, even though not all the players are gay.”
(Reporting by Roberto Ramirez; Writing by Laura Gottesdiener; Editing by Drazen Jorgic and Stephen Coates)
