Marisa Hutchinson is a dedicated advocate for the rights and visibility of LBQ women in Barbados. As a board member of the organisation EQUALS, she focuses on addressing issues related to the LGBT community, with a special emphasis on lesbian, bisexual, and queer women. Her journey into human rights advocacy began during her undergraduate studies in chemistry, where she engaged with gender and development issues. Marisa has since expanded her efforts to support survivors of domestic violence and has actively participated in various initiatives aimed at promoting the rights and well-being of women and girls, particularly within the LGBTI community.
In her work, Marisa confronts the challenges of stigma and resistance within a context where the majority views LBQ issues through a lens of religious conservatism. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to pushing for legislative changes such as equality acts or anti-discrimination laws that would protect individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. Moreover, Marisa seeks to enhance the healthcare and justice systems to better serve and recognise the experiences of LBQ women.
Through her advocacy, Marisa aims to foster a more just society in Barbados—one that moves beyond mere tolerance to the full acceptance and celebration of diverse expressions of identity and love. Her efforts underscore the importance of visibility for LBQ women, ensuring their experiences and voices are acknowledged and respected in every sphere of society.
