Colombia's Amaranta Hank Makes History as Former Adult Star Turns Senator

In a historic move, Deyci Alejandra Omana Ortiz, also known as Amaranta Hank, has been sworn in as a senator in Colombia. This former adult film star, who was once known for her work in the X-rated industry, has now taken a significant step into politics. Amaranta Hank, 33, who was a journalist before joining the adult film industry in 2017, left the industry two years later to pursue a career in politics. She was elected in March in the Norte de Santander region and is now a senator for the left-wing Historic Pact party in Bogotá. Her campaign focused on fighting for the rights of adult-content creators, with the goal of guaranteeing social security rights for those in the industry. According to Amaranta Hank, adult-content creators need legal protections to prevent exploitation by companies and agencies. In a campaign video, she stated, 'These women have been unprotected by the state because, due to misinformation, prejudice, and double standards, no one has declared to regulate it.' She has also responded to critics who claim that former adult stars should not run for office, saying, 'Why can’t a woman who was in the adult industry aspire to a popularly elected office?' She cited the example of Ilona Staller, a former adult star who became an Italian lawmaker. Amaranta Hank believes that her experience in the adult industry has given her a deeper understanding of inequality, the struggle for freedom, and the popular economy, which she promises to bring into legislative debate. The Historic Pact, which is the largest party in the state senate with 25 seats, is also the party of Colombia's outgoing president, Gustavo Petro. Amaranta Hank was elected as she was 23rd on their list of candidates. After her election win, she expressed her gratitude, saying, 'I feel embraced by my people.' In addition to fighting for the rights of adult-content creators, Amaranta Hank is also advocating for quality mental health and campaigning for measures to prevent sexual abuse. She believes that there is a political transformation underway, and although it has a long way to go, it has already begun in some way.