ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of gender, masculinities and sexual diversity in relation to religion and theology in Latin America. It focuses on academic studies and initiatives that exemplify experiences in this field, through both academic training and work, and as part of the struggles for social justice. The chapter discusses the ways in which Latin American liberation theology offers a framework to discuss the relation of religion to gender, masculinities and sexual diversity, considering its contributions within this area as well as its shortcomings. Latin America is the result of rape and violence, with the colonial project invading, penetrating and violating the land, culture and people. The main backlash in relation to the advance of issues concerning gender and sexual equality is found within extreme right-wing political groups who make use of religious discourse and structures. Liberation theology is, in academic and in religious terms, certainly the most well-known expression of Latin American thinking.
