by Rex Wockner
Bolivia's new constitution, approved by 61 percent of voters last month, bans discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The constitution took effect Feb. 7.
According to New York-based Latino activist Andres Duque, Article 14.II, titled "Fundamental Rights and Guarantees," reads, "The State prohibits and punishes all forms of discrimination founded on the basis of sex, skin color, gender, age, sexual orientation and gender identity, origin, culture, nationality, citizenship, language, religious beliefs, ideology, political or philosophical affiliation."
Duque said the document also defines marriage as between a man and a woman and allows Evo Morales, the first Bolivian president of indigenous background, to run for a second term and "to further establish a socialist vision for the country."
It was unclear at press time whether the new protections apply within the new parallel tribal justice system established by the constitution.
Some 60 percent of Bolivians may fall under the jurisdiction of the tribal system.
