Liceo U Champions Inclusivity: Campus Becomes Key Hub for National SOGIE Equality Bill Campaign
November 17, 2023
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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and strong institutions, Liceo de Cagayan University (Liceo U) proudly served as a vital drop box center for the nationwide "Lavan Letters" campaign. This initiative, spearheaded by the local LGBTQIA+ group Kahilwayan and national organization Babaylanes Inc., directly advocated for the passage of the SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, or Sex Characteristics) Equality Bill in the Philippine Congress.
The university's active participation in this crucial national policy campaign underscores its dedication to fostering an inclusive society, directly aligning with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, particularly Target 16.b, which promotes and enforces non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development.
From November 17 to November 28, 2023, Liceo U's campus welcomed students, faculty, staff, and community members to submit their "love letters" addressed to senators and congressmen. These letters expressed powerful support for the SOGIE Equality Bill, a landmark legislation aimed at prohibiting discrimination based on SOGIESC across various sectors, including academic institutions, workplaces, and public services.
The decision to host a drop box center was formally sanctioned and supported by the Liceo U Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Extension and Service Learning. This institutional endorsement facilitated widespread participation and provided a crucial platform for collective action within the university community and beyond.
"Our involvement in the 'Lavan Letters' campaign reflects Liceo U's core values of social responsibility and advocacy for human rights," stated [Insert Name/Title of relevant Liceo U Official, e.g., VP for Student Affairs or Director for Extension]. "By actively supporting this initiative, we contribute to the national dialogue on critical legislation and empower voices calling for a more just and equitable Philippines, directly embodying our commitment to SDG 16."
The "Lavan Letters" campaign, which collected over 20,000 letters nationwide, culminated in their delivery to members of the Senate in December 2023. This impactful effort demonstrated significant public support for the SOGIE Equality Bill, influencing national legislators and reinforcing the urgency of anti-discrimination policies.
Liceo U remains dedicated to engaging in cross-sectoral collaborations that drive positive societal change and contribute to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals, both locally and nationally.