Before Colonization: When Same-Sex Relationships Were Not a Sin in Paraguay
It might come as a surprise, but being gay wasn’t always taboo in Paraguay. Long before Catholicism and colonial laws took over, the Indigenous Guaraní people lived by very different rules – rules where sexuality and gender were more fluid, natural, and often spiritually significant.
Among the Guaraní, individuals who didn’t conform to traditional gender roles were not punished. In fact, some held respected roles as shamans or spiritual healers. Stories passed down through oral tradition speak of people with both masculine and feminine traits who played vital roles in their communities. There was no word for “gay” as we understand it today – because there was no need to define or isolate it.
But all of that changed with colonization.
When the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, they brought with them a rigid moral code rooted in Catholic doctrine. Anything that strayed from heterosexual norms was branded as sinful. Over time, the native understanding of identity was wiped out or demonized, and the rich spiritual diversity that once existed was replaced by fear, shame, and criminal punishment.
So when we talk about “gay life in Paraguay” today, it’s important to realize: intolerance wasn’t always the norm. It was imported. And before the arrival of Western ideologies, the land now called Paraguay had a very different, much more accepting past.
From Faith to Fear: How Colonial Laws Turned Homosexuality Into a Crime in Paraguay
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in what is now Paraguay, they didn’t just conquer land – they imposed an entirely new moral order. Rooted in Catholic doctrine and European legal codes, this new system saw any form of same-sex desire not just as a sin, but as a serious crime.
The result? A radical transformation of how sexuality was viewed in society. Behaviors that may have once been spiritual, neutral, or private suddenly became punishable – by law, and often by force.
By the late 19th century, this mindset was firmly written into Paraguay’s legal system. The country’s first criminal code, established in 1880, didn’t just criminalize “sodomy” – it equated it with violent crimes like rape. That law remained in effect for over a century, with only minor modifications. In 1910, a new version of the penal code still listed same-sex relations as criminal offenses, leaving generations of Paraguayans to live in silence, secrecy, or shame.
These laws weren’t just abstract rules. They had real, devastating consequences. Families were torn apart. Reputations destroyed. And for those caught, the punishments ranged from imprisonment to social exile.
Even worse? There was no safe space to escape to. No community centers, no support networks, no legal protections. For gay men in early 20th-century Paraguay, simply existing could be enough to land you in jail – or worse.
This era laid the foundation for decades of institutionalized homophobia that would only deepen under authoritarian rule. But the seeds of silence and repression were planted during the colonial era – and they continue to cast a shadow today.
The Dark Years: Life for Gay Men Under the Stroessner Dictatorship (1954–1989)
If you were gay in Paraguay during the Stroessner dictatorship, silence wasn’t just survival – it was everything.
From 1954 to 1989, General Alfredo Stroessner ruled Paraguay with an iron fist. His regime was built on censorship, control, and a deeply conservative ideology that left no room for anyone who didn’t fit the mold of a “traditional Paraguayan.” For gay men, this wasn’t just a period of discrimination – it was a time of fear, persecution, and brutal repression.
Homosexuality was treated as both a moral deviance and a political threat. Police regularly raided private homes, bars, and meeting spots where gay men were suspected to gather. Those arrested could face beatings, blackmail, public humiliation, and prison – often without formal charges. The mere suspicion of being gay was enough to destroy your life.
The most infamous example?
The Case of the 108 (1959)
When popular radio host Bernardo Aranda was found murdered and burned in Asunción, police responded not with a proper investigation – but with a witch hunt. They rounded up 108 men they claimed were homosexual, publishing their names in local newspapers. Most had no connection to the crime. Many were tortured. All were publicly shamed.
The number “108” became a symbol of national ridicule – a slur used to refer to gay men in Paraguay for decades. Even today, some businesses skip assigning the number 108 to hotel rooms or office floors. That’s how deep the trauma runs.
And yet, these stories were silenced for years. There was no LGBTQ+ press. No watchdog organizations. No social media. Survivors of the dictatorship’s anti-gay purges carried their pain quietly- if they survived at all.
For many gay Paraguayans, this period wasn’t just the loss of rights – it was the loss of identity. A forced invisibility. A fear passed down across generations.
Why This Matters Today for Gay Scene in Paraguay
Understanding what happened under Stroessner isn’t just about history – it’s about context. Many of the fears, silences, and stigmas that still exist in Paraguay’s gay community today are rooted in the terror of this era. You can’t heal a wound you never name.
A Legal Turning Point? Decriminalization and the Contradictions of Paraguay’s Democracy
When Paraguay’s dictatorship ended in 1989, it sparked hope – for democracy, for human rights, and for long-silenced communities to finally breathe freely. For gay Paraguayans, it was a historic moment. But freedom, as it turned out, would arrive in slow and uneven steps.
The first big shift came in 1990, just one year after the fall of Stroessner. Paraguay officially decriminalized homosexuality with the passage of Law 104/90, a reform of the old penal code that had treated same-sex relations as crimes on par with rape or abuse.
For the first time in over a century, it was no longer illegal to be gay in Paraguay.
And yet… equality remained elusive.
A Constitution That Giveth and Taketh Away
In 1992, Paraguay adopted a new democratic constitution. While it guaranteed certain human rights for all citizens, it also enshrined conservative definitions of family and marriage, explicitly stating that family is founded on the union between “a man and a woman.” LGBTQ+ rights were left entirely out of the conversation.
There was no mention of protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation. No recognition of same-sex couples. No civil unions. No hate crime laws. Gay people were suddenly “legal,” but still unprotected, unrecognized, and largely invisible under the law.
Age of Consent: Another Legal Loophole
Even after decriminalization, another double standard persisted: the age of sexual consent. While heterosexual relations were legal from age 14, same-sex relations weren’t legal until 17 – a clear sign that the law still treated gay relationships as more dangerous or “morally questionable.”
Worse, few Paraguayans even knew this discrepancy existed. It was buried in the fine print of the legal code – yet it shaped the way gay youth were treated by police, educators, and their own families.
Legal but Not Equal
Decriminalization was a crucial milestone. But it didn’t mean protection. It didn’t mean acceptance. For many gay Paraguayans, life after 1990 simply meant a shift from fear of prison to fear of rejection, unemployment, or violence – with no legal safety net to fall back on.
As the country entered the 21st century, the LGBTQ+ community began to organize – but the law still lagged far behind.
The Birth of a Movement: Paraguay’s LGBT Community Finds Its Voice
Legal change is one thing. Social change is another.
And in Paraguay, real visibility for gay men and the wider LGBT community didn’t begin with a law – it began with bravery.
In the mid-1990s, a quiet but powerful shift began.
1993: A March From Inside a Prison
It might sound surreal, but Paraguay’s first known LGBT demonstration happened inside a women’s prison. On September 16, 1993, an openly lesbian inmate named Feliciana “Chana” Coronel organized a public protest at Buen Pastor prison in Asunción.
She spoke out about abuse, discrimination, and the complete lack of rights for LGBTQ+ people in Paraguayan society. Her voice carried far beyond prison walls and today, that date is remembered as Lesbian Visibility Day in Paraguay.
It was the first crack in the wall of silence.
1996: The First LGBT Organization
Three years later, CHOPA (Comunidad Homosexual del Paraguay) was founded the first legal organization in the country dedicated to defending the rights of gay people. It gave voice to a community that had, until then, been forced to hide.
From that moment on, the movement only grew.
- 2001: Aireana, an NGO focused on lesbian rights, was born.
- 2004: The first public Pride march took place in Asunción, small but defiant.
- 2005: The first LesBiGayTrans Festival launched, giving space to art, film, and resistance.
- 2011 and beyond: September 30 became the official day for Marchas por los Derechos LGBT, attracting more participants every year.
A Movement Without Permission
None of this happened with government support. There were no grants, no public funding, no major politicians marching in solidarity. The movement was built by volunteers, students, artists, and survivors often at personal risk.
Marches were met with counter-protests. Activists were followed or threatened. But year after year, the rainbow flags came back more visible, more organized, more determined.
Visibility as Resistance
In Paraguay, simply being out is a radical act. Organizing a march is political. Holding your partner’s hand in public is, for many, still a risk. And yet, these acts of courage laid the foundation for a modern LGBT movement in one of South America’s most conservative countries.
The message was simple:
“We exist. We’re not going anywhere. And we will be seen.”
Faith, Family, and Fear: Why Homophobia Still Runs Deep in Paraguayan Society
While legal barriers have slowly fallen, another wall remains – the invisible but powerful force of social rejection. For many gay men in Paraguay, the hardest battles aren’t fought in courts or parliaments. They’re fought at the dinner table, in church pews, and on neighborhood streets.
The Catholic Grip
Paraguay is one of the most deeply Catholic countries in Latin America. Over 85% of the population identifies with the Church, and its influence extends far beyond religion – it shapes laws, education, politics, and family values.
Church leaders have openly campaigned against same-sex marriage, adoption by gay couples, and even LGBT visibility in schools. Terms like “gender ideology” are used to stir fear and moral panic. In 2017, the Ministry of Education even banned the teaching of any material related to “gender identity” in public schools.
This religious influence reinforces the idea that being gay is not just different – but wrong, dangerous, or unwanted.
“What Will the Neighbors Say?”
In Paraguay, family reputation is everything. Coming out is often seen not just as a personal act, but as a betrayal of family honor. Many gay men live double lives, hiding their truth from parents, siblings, employers, even close friends.
It’s not uncommon for men to enter heterosexual marriages to meet expectations – only to live in secrecy, isolation, or emotional distress. The social pressure to conform is overwhelming, especially outside of cities like Asunción.
Public Opinion and Fear of “Conversion”
A 2022 Latinobarómetro survey found that only about 30% of Paraguayans support same-sex marriage – one of the lowest rates in South America. Hate speech often goes unchecked. Discrimination in schools, workplaces, and public spaces is widespread but rarely reported, and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in place.
Being “out” can mean losing your job, your family, or your safety. And in many communities, being openly gay isn’t just frowned upon – it’s seen as something that should be “cured.”
So Why Stay?
Despite it all, many gay Paraguayans choose to stay and fight – for visibility, for change, and for a better future. And for some, especially in Asunción, life is slowly improving. A younger generation is growing up more connected to the outside world through social media, travel, and education. There’s hope – but also caution.
In Paraguay, homophobia isn’t always loud or violent.
Sometimes, it’s a whisper.
A disapproving glance.
A silence that says, you don’t belong here.
Everyday Gay Life in Paraguay: Love, Secrecy, and Survival
What’s it really like to be a gay man living in Paraguay – not on paper, but in real life?
The answer depends heavily on where you live, who you know, and how visible you dare to be.
Asunción: A Bubble of Semi-Freedom
In Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, there’s a growing sense of openness – especially among younger generations. You’ll find LGBT-friendly cafes, discreet meetups, art events, and a few places where being gay doesn’t feel like a risk.
Dating apps like Grindr, Tinder, and Hornet are widely used, although users are often cautious. Many profiles are faceless, using only initials or blurry images. Meeting someone new still carries the fear of being outed or targeted.
Public displays of affection? Rare. Even in Asunción, holding hands with your partner on the street can attract stares.
Rural Paraguay: The Closet Is Still the Norm
Outside major cities, being openly gay is close to impossible.
Small towns are tightly knit, deeply religious, and socially conservative. People know each other’s families. Gossip travels fast. Coming out can mean losing your job, your home, or your place in the community.
Many gay men in rural Paraguay live in what psychologists call “hyper-discreet mode” – avoiding relationships, hiding their identity, and sometimes engaging in risky, secret encounters just to feel seen.
Relationships in the Shadows
Long-term same-sex couples exist – but they often live like roommates, not lovers. There’s no legal recognition. No health insurance coverage for partners. No protections for parenting, inheritance, or housing.
Some couples create a sense of “normalcy” by blending into society – introducing their partners as “friends” or “cousins.” Others split their lives in two: one face for the outside world, another behind closed doors.
And for many, emotional intimacy becomes a secret too – something never spoken aloud, even in their closest circles.
Discrimination Without Protection
Paraguay has no national anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ people. That means you can legally be fired, evicted, or denied services based on your sexual orientation – and there’s little legal recourse.
Some employers in Asunción are quietly supportive, but most workplaces remain conservative. In schools, bullying is rampant and often ignored. In hospitals, gay patients have reported verbal abuse or being denied information about their partner’s condition.
The result? Many gay men simply choose silence.
Quiet Courage
And yet, in the middle of all this silence, gay life in Paraguay persists – with resilience, with humor, and with hope.
From secret kisses on park benches, to late-night chats on apps, to friendships that become lifelines – there’s beauty in how people survive. And for some, even thrive.
But the question remains:
How long should someone have to hide just to live in peace?
Why Paraguay Might Be the Best-Kept Secret for Gay Expats and Travelers
Forget what you’ve heard. While some still imagine Paraguay as a hyper-conservative country stuck in the past, the reality in 2025 is very different – especially for gay men.
In fact, for many, Paraguay is becoming one of the most refreshingly open and authentic places to live or visit as a gay person. And the best part?
It’s still under the radar.
People Are Curious, Not Judgmental
Paraguayans are naturally warm, respectful, and eager to connect – especially with foreigners. Being a tourist or expat here actually works in your favor. Unlike bigger, over-touristed cities in South America, Asunción still feels raw and real.
Locals are often more intrigued by who you are than offended by who you love. If you’re polite, confident, and friendly, you’ll likely experience zero hostility and a lot of sincere interest.
Dating in Paraguay: Real Connections Without the Price Tag
One of the most surprising things for many gay expats is how easy it is to meet people organically. Whether you’re out in a café, walking by the Costanera, or just exploring the city, you don’t need to rely solely on dating apps to make a connection.
And unlike some parts of the world, there’s no “expat tax” on dating here. You’re not being targeted for money or lifestyle – people in Paraguay tend to be genuine, curious, and emotionally present.
In short: you can meet someone real, for free, and without games.
Of course, apps like Grindr or Tinder are still widely used, but they’re not the only route. People say hola in real life here. They ask questions. They invite you out. And that’s rare.
Asunción Is More Open Than People Think
In the capital, there’s a growing group of out and proud individuals – especially among Gen Z and creatives. Gay couples are more visible in public. Local LGBTQ+ organizations host events, workshops, and film nights. While there aren’t dozens of gay bars, the social scene is welcoming and relaxed.
You don’t have to “hide” – you just have to be yourself in the right spaces.
Low Tourism = High Opportunity
Because Paraguay doesn’t get flooded with international visitors, being a foreigner here actually makes you stand out – in a good way. Whether you’re here short-term or settling in, people are open to getting to know you, and locals often appreciate that you’ve chosen a place that few outsiders even consider.
There’s a sense of genuine curiosity and cultural exchange, not jadedness or transactional vibes.
Final Thought: Low-Key, High-Value
Paraguay won’t flood you with rainbow flags or commercialized gay spaces – but maybe that’s exactly the point. What it offers instead is something calmer, more grounded, and real:
- Authentic connections
- No pressure to “perform”
- A welcoming vibe for those who lead with respect
If you’re looking for honest people, warm energy, and the chance to connect without pretense, Paraguay might just be your favorite surprise.
FAQ: Gay Life in Paraguay – What You Really Want to Know
1. Is Paraguay safe for gay travelers and expats?
Yes – especially in Asunción, Paraguay is generally safe and calm for gay visitors. While public displays of affection are still uncommon, locals are friendly and respectful. Use the same common-sense awareness you would anywhere, but violence or direct hostility is very rare.
2. Are there gay bars or clubs in Paraguay?
There are no major “gay-only” clubs like you might find in São Paulo or Buenos Aires, but some bars and cafés in Asunción are very LGBTQ+ friendly. House parties, private events, and social apps like Grindr and Tinder are where most connections happen.
3. Is it easy to date as a gay man in Paraguay?
Actually, yes. Because the country is not overrun by tourists, many locals are genuinely curious and open to meeting foreigners – especially if you’re kind and authentic. Dating here often feels more real and less transactional than in bigger expat hubs.
4. Can same-sex couples live openly in Paraguay?
In urban areas like Asunción, yes – especially among younger generations. While there’s no legal recognition for same-sex couples (yet), many live openly without problems. In smaller towns, discretion is still recommended.
5. What’s the vibe of the gay community in Paraguay?
It’s small but growing – and full of heart. From grassroots LGBTQ+ organizations to young artists and creatives, the community is resilient, supportive, and proud. While not flashy or commercial, it’s authentic and deeply connected.
Leave a Reply