Shoppers are gathering to reclaim affection in public: activists have called a besatón at Centro Comercial Andino in Bogotá after a same-sex couple said security reprimanded them for kissing. The peaceful event, set for Wednesday evening, is meant to protest discrimination and defend the right to express love in public spaces.

Essential Takeaways

  • What’s happening: A besatón protest has been called at Centro Comercial Andino after a same-sex couple reported being reprimanded for kissing.
  • When and where: The action is scheduled for Wednesday 22 July at 6:30pm at the Andino shopping centre; organisers say it will be peaceful and open to all.
  • Official response: Andino issued a public apology, said the incident doesn’t reflect its values, and announced an internal review.
  • Community tone: Activists frame the event as solidarity and visibility , expect chants, hugs and visible signs of support; atmosphere likely to feel emotional but calm.
  • Practical note: If you go, bring water, batteries, a mask and patience for crowds; keep it peaceful and respect organisers’ guidance.

What triggered the besatón? A single kiss, a big reaction

The immediate spark was simple and intimate: a same-sex couple say security staff at Centro Comercial Andino asked them to stop kissing. That private moment became public when the couple shared their account, and it lit up social media. According to local coverage, the complaint revived conversations about how public affection by LGBTQ+ people is policed differently. The mood among organisers is protective and resolute , this is as much about solidarity as it is about calling out a specific incident.

How the community organised , quick, visual and digital

Activists and LGBTIQ+ groups used Instagram and other platforms to mobilise quickly, inviting people to a besatón to demonstrate peaceful rejection of discrimination. The account @orgullolgbt and other networks put out the call, promising a calm but visible show of support. Organisers emphasise a non-violent tone and welcome allies; expect rainbow flags, stickers and clear signage. This is a trend: social media makes it easy to turn individual grievances into collective action overnight.

What the mall said , apology and an internal review

Centro Comercial Andino released a public statement apologising to the couple and said the alleged conduct did not reflect the centre’s values. They pledge an internal review to clarify what happened and to take corrective measures. That response matters: corporate apologies can calm immediate tensions, but activists often look for follow-up steps , policy changes, staff training or public commitments , to ensure it doesn’t recur. Watch whether the mall publishes outcomes from its inquiry.

Why this matters beyond one kiss

This isn’t just about a single reprimand; it’s about everyday freedoms in public spaces. Coverage in Colombia has repeatedly highlighted how same-sex couples sometimes face differential treatment in malls, transport and parks. A besatón is both symbolic and practical: it reclaims space and signals that affection between consenting adults shouldn’t be policed. For many participants, showing up is therapeutic , a way to turn anger into visible support and remind authorities that equality requires vigilance.

How to take part responsibly , tips for attendees

If you plan to join, go prepared and thoughtful. Bring water and a fully charged phone, wear comfortable shoes, and follow organisers’ instructions. Keep the action peaceful: chants and kisses are part of the message, but respect other shoppers and avoid blocking emergency routes. Documenting the event is useful, but get consent before filming others. If you can’t attend, amplifying messages online or contacting mall management to ask for concrete policy changes also helps.

It's a small, public act that says a lot about respect, safety and belonging.

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