Little Known Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Cuba

Cuba’s government-run health-care system now includes state-sponsored sex reassignment surgery, a dramatic shift that began in 2007 when a longstanding ban on the practice was lifted. Though the first successful operation occurred in 1988, procedures were halted shortly after, leaving many in limbo.

Interest dates back even further—by 1979, 122 Cubans had formally expressed a desire to undergo gender-affirming surgery. The recent resurgence in support is due in large part to Mariela Castro, a sexologist and outspoken LGBTQ+ rights advocate. Through her, Cuba has resumed training and recognizing transgender individuals seeking medical transition.