Guayaquil, Ecuador – The Silueta X Association, backed by the Ecuadorian Federation of LGBT Organizations, has raised an urgent alarm following a series of violent acts, threats, and vandalism targeting its physical offices in Guayaquil. The organization states that these events are not only an attack on their security but a deliberate attempt to silence their relentless human rights advocacy amid a national surge in crime, extortion (known as “vacunas”), and pervasive public insecurity. Silueta X suspects the attacks are linked to its recent public denunciations.
Escalation of Aggression and Vandalism
The Association detailed a worrying escalation of aggressions in recent days:
- Intimidation and Threats: Written threats were left at the entrance.
- Suspicious Objects: Laptops belonging to unknown parties were abandoned outside the office, initially feared to be explosive devices.
- Vandalism and Damage: Attempts at forced entry resulted in damage to doors, panels, locks, and padlocks.
- Sabotage: Essential infrastructure was deliberately damaged, including the cutting of cables to the external air conditioning motor and the vandalization of power meters.
- Security Breaches: The parking lot padlock was broken with a mechanical device.
Security Deficiencies and Financial Strain
Silueta X highlights that its operational sector lacks adequate public lighting, facilitating these nighttime aggressions. The combination of darkness and lack of security has allowed the attacks to continue unchecked.
The estimated costs for repairs—including the AC system ($120 USD), door repair ($50 USD), panels ($200 USD), and enhanced security bars ($150 USD)—exceed the Association’s current economic capacity, as its resources are entirely dedicated to human rights defense.
“We are one of the few organizations in Guayaquil and Quito with an active physical presence… Our headquarters, a building of historical patrimonial value, is being affected by these aggressions, risking not only our work but also a cultural legacy that deserves protection,” the statement reads.
Urgent Call to Authorities and Community Solidarity
Silueta X is urgently appealing to authorities to conduct an exhaustive survey of the area, repair public lighting, and guarantee the security necessary for the team to continue its work without fear. The organization also confirmed it will file corresponding legal complaints to ensure these acts do not go unpunished.
Furthermore, Silueta X is making an appeal for community support and solidarity to help repair and fortify their headquarters. Immediate needs include:
- Security Upgrades: High-security locks, protective bars for the AC unit, electric wiring with protective systems, and a security alarm with 10 surveillance cameras.
- Lighting and Infrastructure: Light bulbs, weather-resistant outdoor lamps, and replacement materials for damaged doors and meters.
- Financial Aid: Donations can be made to the Asociación Silueta X current account at Banco Internacional, number 1000121824, RUC 0992662239001, or by contacting
info@siluetax.org.
Silueta X concluded: “We will not allow threats, violence, or extortion to silence our voice… Today, more than ever, we need your support to move forward. Together, we can protect this space of resistance and hope.”
