ABOUT
I Exist Too.
I Exist Too was registered as a charity following the success of the I Exist Too Forum in May 2023 in which leading maritime industry professionals, academics, human rights advocates, diplomats and United Nations agencies gathered in Panama to improve the visibility and rights of LGBTIQ+ population within the maritime industry.
OUR GOAL.
We believe in a maritime industry where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered. We bring together leading voices - professionals, academics and human rights advocates to champion - inclusion.
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Our vision is a maritime industry where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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As demonstrated in 2023 with the inaugural I Exist Too forum, we do not just talk. We take action. We raise awareness, advocate for change, and work to create a more inclusive future for all seafarers.
OBJECTIVES.
Visibility
Promote the visibility and contribution of LGBTIQ+ professionals within the maritime industry.
Access
Strengthen the access and career development of LGBTIQ+ people within the maritime industry.
Inclusion
Promote action frameworks for the establishment of inclusive policies that guarantee the protection of LGBTIQ+ people within the maritime industry
Growth
Promote innovation, development, and continuous growth of the maritime industry through a diverse, inclusive, and respectful human talent participation
“A comprehensive intervention in the maritime sector is essential to protect the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ+ individuals. It's crucial to remember that true inclusion means leaving no one behind. If we fail to do so, we're only fighting for the privilege of a few at the cost of many. I'm optimistic that this project will help promote the humanisation and improvement of the maritime industry culture."
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“We must work together to ensure that the needs of the LGBTQ+ population are not overlooked or silenced, and that we continue to make progress towards a more equitable and just society." Founder, Gustavo Abdiel Aguilar-Miranda.
Gustavo Abdiel Aguilar-Miranda - Founder.
Read more about our team of dedicated, international trustees from industry and academia here.
Read more about our team of dedicated, international volunteers from ex-seafarers to human rights advocates here.
Read more about the sponsors of I Exist Too, including the sponsors of I Exist Too 2023 whose support kickstarted our movement here.