Quito, Ecuador – The Silueta X Association, a member of the Ecuadorian Federation of LGBT Organizations, has issued a strong statement expressing alarm over recent reports that schools in Quito—both public and private—are mandating the use of skirts for girls and adolescents, in direct violation of current national regulations. Silueta X is calling for immediate enforcement of the law, stressing that forced skirt use constitutes institutional gender violence.
Legal Mandate vs. Institutional Violation
Since 2018, the use of skirts in Ecuadorian educational institutions has been optional, as clearly established by Ministerial Agreement MINEDUC-MINEDUC-2018-00034-A, Article 6.
Silueta X emphasizes that any attempt to compel students to wear the garment is a violation of their rights and personal autonomy.
The Ministerial Agreement explicitly states: “Educational institutions, when regulating the use of school uniforms in the institutional Code of Coexistence, must determine that the use of skirts for girls and female adolescents is optional, and the use of said garment may not be made mandatory in any way.”
Impact on Diverse Students
The Association warns that these enforced dress codes not only contradict national law but also directly affect girls, adolescents, and especially Transgender and Non-Binary students, who already face heightened levels of structural violence and discrimination within the educational system.
Silueta X reaffirmed the rights of students:
- All students have the right to decide whether to wear skirts or trousers without fear of reprisals or exclusion.
- The organization rejects any imposition that reinforces gender stereotypes in educational centers.
Call to Action for Denunciation
Silueta X urged mothers, fathers, guardians, and students to denounce these discriminatory practices immediately to the proper authorities.
- Denunciation Points: Reports can be made to the District Education offices, by calling 1800 EDUCACIÓN, emailing
info@siluetax.org(with copies toinfo@federacionLGBT.organdinfo@plataformatrans.org), or submitting virtual complaints via the Ministry of Education portal.
The organization also called on the Ministry of Education to strengthen its control and sanction mechanisms for non-compliance, and actively promote an inclusive education that is free of stereotypes and respectful of gender diversity.
