Yendri Omar Velásquez

Yendri Omar Velásquez is a prominent Venezuelan human rights activist and a defender of LGBTIQ+ rights. He is the founder of the Observatory of LGBTIQ+ Violence and has been advocating for the rights of marginalized communities in Venezuela. Following threats and persecution due to his activism, he sought refuge in Colombia, where he continues his work. Recently, Velásquez was the victim of a targeted shooting in Bogotá, which prompted condemnation from the United Nations and calls for increased protection for activists.