About Us
Since 1997, the Caribbean Forum for the Liberation and Acceptance of Genders and Sexualities (CariFLAGS) has been the unifying voice of the Caribbean LGBTQ movement.
As a coalition of civil society organizations and activists, we champion a Pan-Caribbean approach to human rights, social justice, and LGBTQ advocacy.
Over the years, CariFLAGS has strengthened regional solidarity, nurtured leadership, and articulated a uniquely Caribbean LGBTQ agenda.
In an evolving landscape of activism, CariFLAGS remains a trusted partner to international organizations, national leaders, and grassroots advocates, continuously amplifying the voices of the Caribbean LGBTQ community. Together, we’re building a future defined by equality, dignity, and collective empowerment.
Our Values
Accountability
Willingly accepts the obligation to be answerable to members, constituents and partners, to account for decisions and activities, and to be results for results, including the responsibility to share this information widely.
Diversity
Recognizes and values differences between LGBTQ populations, which are intrinsically heterogeneous, and including based on linguistic, social, political, economic and cultural differences between Caribbean countries.
Transparency
Embedding of practices, processes and mechanisms to ensure openness, communication and accountability for CariFLAGS’ decisions and actions.
Equity
Commits to application of the principle of equality and non-discrimination that guarantees that those in equal circumstances are dealt with equally, and acknowledges that some persons and groups of persons may require special attention because they do not enjoy equal circumstances.
Representation
Legitimacy to speak on behalf of constituents, supported by clear structures and process for information sharing and feedback.
Inclusivity
Commits to explicit actions to ensure the inclusion people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those from minority groups within the LGBTQ community, including those who have physical or mental disabilities and who may be members of linguistic minorities.
Our Mission
To build a Pan-Caribbean LGBTQ movement that increases synergy and participation of groups
across the region as an effective collective.
Our Vision
A Caribbean in which social justice and human rights are enjoyed by all people.
Core Strategies
To achieve our vision and in line with our core values, our strategies include:
Knowledge Management
We prioritize nurturing leadership within LGBTQ communities, particularly among youth, and support community mobilization on human rights issues. Through crosscutting analysis, capacity building, and mentorship, CariFLAGS ensures aligned action across Caribbean countries and advocates for full LGBTQ participation in regional civil society and multi-sectoral bodies.
Regional Engagement & Coordination
We are committed to fostering inclusion by advocating for human rights through the decriminalization of same-sex behaviors, sex work, gender non-conformity, and HIV transmission. By strengthening connections with national organizations, overcoming resource and communication barriers, and leveraging the expertise of experienced activists, We aim to build a unified regional movement that supports national and sub-regional progress while better serving LGBTQ communities.
Institutional Development
We will foster mutual trust among stakeholders by facilitating collaboration on vision, mission, and shared priorities. This approach aims to deliver coordinated responses, launch regional initiatives, influence policy, and drive long-term social change.
Caribbean Forum for the Liberation and Acceptance of Genders and Sexualities 