Mexico City's New Safe Haven for LGBTQ+ Athletes Breaks Barriers

A new safe space for LGBTQ+ athletes has opened in Mexico City. Christian Montoya, a trans man and experienced powerlifter, founded Fuerza Diversx after years of facing discrimination in sports. The initiative offers inclusive training free from harassment and rigid beauty expectations. Montoya’s journey in sports has been marked by persistent challenges. As a footballer, he quit due to daily discrimination. Later, in CrossFit, strongman, and powerlifting, he endured verbal abuse and hostility because of his gender identity. These experiences extended beyond sports, affecting his employment and self-worth.

In response, Montoya created Fuerza Diversx—a programme focused on strength training without judgement. Based at Casa La Moira, a cultural hub in San Miguel Chapultepec, the project provides mental and physical health support. Training sessions prioritise personal growth over traditional beauty standards. Fuerza Diversx also tackles financial barriers by offering scholarships covering 30% to 100% of costs. Many members have left conventional gyms due to violence and slurs. Now, they train in a space where identity is respected, and safety is guaranteed. Casa La Moira, located at Av. José Vasconcelos 125, operates Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The centre’s resources extend beyond fitness, fostering a broader sense of community for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Fuerza Diversx now provides an alternative for those pushed out of mainstream sports. The programme’s scholarships and inclusive approach aim to remove common obstacles. For many, it represents a rare opportunity to train without fear or exclusion.