ORANJESTAD, Aruba — Aruban singer, wedding officiant and cultural advocate Edjean Semeleer has highlighted how marriage equality and a changing social climate are helping LGBTQ+ residents and visitors feel more welcome on the island.
Semeleer, a co-founder of the Go Cultura Foundation, shared his perspective in a September 10 travel feature published by Attitude in partnership with the Aruba Tourism Authority. He described an Aruba where public visibility, cultural openness and legal recognition have advanced together.
Marriage equality marked a turning point
Same-sex marriage became legal in Aruba in 2024. Semeleer told the publication that the change felt liberating for the local LGBTQ+ community. He married his husband, Arthur, in February 2025 during Aruba’s Carnival season and recalled receiving warm public congratulations from residents and visitors.
As a wedding officiant who has conducted more than 120 ceremonies, Semeleer said he has also seen increasing interest from same-sex couples choosing Aruba for destination weddings. He encourages couples to include authentic Aruban traditions in their ceremonies, including the island’s close cultural connection to the sea.
Visibility is changing everyday life
Semeleer began performing on Aruban television at age 10 and has grown into a recognizable local public figure. He said being able to live openly with his husband can help shift attitudes and make acceptance more visible.
The feature also points to Aruba’s multicultural character as an important part of that welcome. Businesses and organizations increasingly display messages of inclusion during Pride Month, while venues such as Cage Nightclub host regular drag performances.
Culture remains central to the visitor experience
Beyond beaches and nightlife, Semeleer encourages visitors to engage with Aruba’s culture and communities. His work with the Go Cultura Foundation focuses on safeguarding the island’s cultural heritage, and he presents local traditions as a meaningful part of any visit.
He also noted that Aruba offers celebrations throughout the year, from Carnival early in the year to holiday festivities in the final months. The island’s location outside the main hurricane belt supports year-round tourism.
The new interview adds a distinctly local voice to Aruba’s growing profile as an inclusive Caribbean destination. It connects the island’s tourism appeal with the lived experience of an Aruban artist, cultural advocate and marriage officiant.
Source: Attitude, “LGBTQ+ Aruba Travel Guide: Why the Dutch Caribbean island is an inclusive paradise”. The original feature states that it was produced in partnership with the Aruba Tourism Authority.
