HIGÜEY, LA ALTAGRACIA – Municipal authorities in Higüey have implemented a controversial ban targeting individuals identified as “therians” from accessing public spaces. Mayor Karina Aristy announced the restrictive measure on Tuesday during the inauguration ceremony for the reconstructed Bible Park in the La Malena sector.
The mayor’s declaration occurred before an audience comprising municipal officials, city council members, community leaders, and religious representatives. Aristy directly addressed circulating reports about the presence of such groups nationwide, stating unequivocally that they “are not welcome” within municipal boundaries.
Aristy grounded her position in what she characterized as a necessary defense of Higüey’s core values and cultural identity. She formally designated the municipality as “a town of faith and of hardworking men and women,” emphasizing that preserving these principles represents a shared responsibility between local government and residents.
The political endorsement for this measure was visibly demonstrated through the presence of church representatives and City Council members who witnessed the announcement. As of current reporting, no official responses have been issued by organizations associated with therian communities or by higher-level government authorities regarding the municipality’s stance.
This development raises significant questions regarding public accommodation policies and municipal authority to restrict access based on identity expression. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between traditional community values and emerging subcultural identities within contemporary society.