Veiligheidsconferentie #2

📢 Community Gathering: Islamophobia and the Queer Muslim Experience 📢

As Islamophobia rises across Europe and in Amsterdam, what does this mean for queer and trans individuals with Muslim backgrounds?

For years, the queer community has been a space for acceptance and safety. However, recent events have shown that this safe haven is not guaranteed. In broader white communities, queer and trans people are often celebrated for their courage to live openly. Yet, when advocating for human rights beyond Western, white perspectives, they may feel marginalized. This gathering will explore these complex experiences.

Key questions to be addressed include:

• What steps can prevent the loss of community safety for queer and trans Muslims?
• How does rising discrimination affect those who embrace both their faith and queer identity?
• How can the voices of queer refugees from Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) be amplified?
• Why are even Christians sometimes impacted by Islamophobia?

Through insights from speakers and artists, we’ll critically examine the risks of speaking out about violence in SWANA regions and the blind spots within the queer and trans community itself. The evening seeks solutions and unity, creating space for the unique experiences of queer and trans Muslims.

Curated and presented by Tofik Dibi and Simomo Bouj, with contributions from Mounir Samuel, Naomi Pieters, Fayçal, Abdullah, Sheyma Rochdi, Marwan, and Spitler. Guests can also explore the Boujloud Beats exhibition at No Limits! Art Castle, which delves into “otherness” in the SWANA region.

Everyone interested in this theme is welcome to join.