Update – According to Yahoo entertainment, in an Instagram story, Venus clarified the Puerto Vallarta altercation: “…I was involved in an altercation, however I can confirm that this occurred prior to any police involvement and is not the result of a wrongful abduction or brutality by the authorities. I acknowledge that I should have waited until I had more clarity before making any public accusations and take full accountability that my previous statement does not align with the events of that night. I want to take a moment and express a deep gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of those who helped me piece things together with compassion and care…”
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Jalisco Secretary of Tourism, Michelle Fridman, recently visited the Puerto Vallarta Office of Sexual Diversity, now located in Lázaro Cárdenas Park, also known as Parque de Los Azulejos. Her visit highlighted the state’s support for inclusion and recognized the office’s vital role in protecting LGBTQ+ rights.
Héctor Ramírez Betancourt, director of the office, welcomed Fridman and shared how the new location strengthens their ability to serve the community. The Office of Sexual Diversity plays an essential role in advocating for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community, offering comprehensive assistance in legal, health, and related matters that promote equality and justice.
“We were pleased to welcome the Secretary, who acknowledged the work we’ve done thanks to the support of Mayor Luis Munguía,” said Ramírez Betancourt. “We’re also working with other agencies during this Easter vacation period to expand our outreach.”
The office has taken action in various sensitive cases, including that of Canadian citizen Venus Sherwood, who recently reported an alleged assault by municipal police officers. Ramírez Betancourt explained that they were notified by Alfonso Dávalos from the Gay Community Center and immediately offered their support. “As instructed by our Mayor, we are here to assist anyone affected by police misconduct. We’re currently waiting for further information to proceed with a formal complaint,” he noted.
Highlighting proactive measures, Ramírez Betancourt recalled a March 13th meeting with Public Security Commissioner Eduardo Horacio Llanas Cuevas and members of the Olas Altas LGBT community. This meeting resulted in an agreement to report any police abuse to the Internal Affairs Department – a step toward building stronger accountability.
He encouraged all individuals experiencing abuse to file formal complaints, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice and strengthening public trust. The Office of Sexual Diversity is open Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm, at their location in Lázaro Cárdenas Park.
By continuing to provide essential services and standing up for human rights, this office remains a key pillar in Puerto Vallarta’s efforts to foster respect, safety, and inclusion for all.
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