It’s a question I get asked often: “Why are you so focused on the World Cup?”
Yes, I’ve always loved the sport. My father played professional soccer in Peru, and fútbol has always been part of my life. But that’s not the main reason why I — and so many others — have been working for more than two years to support, guide, and elevate small businesses in New Jersey through the lens of the World Cup.
The real reason? Because visibility, opportunity, and equity matter. You don’t need to be a soccer fan to understand discrimination or racism. It exists in boardrooms and locker rooms, in legislation and locker-lineups. But when it plays out on a global stage — in front of billions — it raises a harder question: Why are we still silencing people for being who they are?
In 2022, the World Cup was held in Qatar, a country where LGBTQ+ identities are not recognized or respected. FIFA held the tournament there anyway. And while the headlines were mostly about goals and glory, there was another story — quieter, but devastating.
- Fans weren’t allowed to wear Pride gear.
- No rainbow flags. No One Love armbands.
- No signs of LGBTQ+ visibility were allowed.
The justification? “Respect the laws of the host country.”
Let me be clear: millions of LGBTQ+ people around the world love this sport. We play it. We cheer for it. We build community around it. We belong in it. But in Qatar, we were erased — and the world watched it happen.
I’ve worked directly with FIFA on their No Discrimination initiative, and I can say: they are trying. They are listening. But true change doesn’t only come from institutions — it comes from us. From the people. From our communities. That’s why I’ve been pushing for LGBTQ+ inclusion in every layer of the World Cup 2026 conversation — from small business opportunities to public events, from media representation to partnerships with organizations like Evolvere and the SHCCNJ.
But here’s the hard truth: I’ve struggled to get real participation from our own LGBTQ+ community here in New York and New Jersey. Whether it’s apathy, disconnect, or gatekeeping — I’m not sure.
But I know what I saw this week at MetLife Stadium.
I was lucky to attend both semifinals and the final of the FIFA Club World Cup. Hundreds of LGBTQ+ fans were in attendance. Not a single Pride flag in sight.
Meanwhile, at Gotham FC or Red Bulls games, Pride is visible, celebrated, and respected. Even the launch video for the new Cosmos included LGBTQ+ imagery. The contrast is impossible to ignore.
So I’ve made it my personal mission: In 2026, LGBTQ+ small businesses and our community at large will be seen, heard, and included in everything World Cup related.
This isn’t just about soccer. This is about representation, economic access, and being counted.
To my allies who’ve supported me — thank you. To my LGBTQ+ family: It’s time. We need to show up. If not now, then when?
