Koolitus “Breaking Through: The Right to Self-Determination in Gender” (Berliin)

Gender is a socially constructed phenomenon that is predominantly binary and therefore exclusive in our society. Cis–normativity and cis–sexism leave little if any space for pluralism, selfdetermination and other forms of gender as well as sexual identity. As peace and volunteer organisations, we want to support a large number of young people who are exposed daily to discrimination, structural violence, human rights violations and exclusion in society due to their gender or sexual orientation. In many regions, these problems are denied or worse, those affected are insulted or physically attacked. It affects different areas of their life such as family, school, work, personal development. In some countries these problems go beyond customs, stereotypes and norms, where LGBTQI+ communities are still almost criminalised and legally denied their rights and freedoms. We should not ignore these problems and take the opportunity to break through those binary norms, to foster and to encourage gender diversity, forming truly open but inclusive and tolerant societies that are based on respect and recognition of human dignity irrespective of gender or sexual orientation. Through this project local NGOs and partners can play a crucial role in promoting these values, in changing the current status quo and in breaking through barriers. It is equally important to gather and share experiences – whether it’s common or different – to build stronger connections and unity among LGBTQI+ activists. In many countries the situation has been stale or almost unchanged, hence a breakthrough is needed. Our project will provide an opportunity to establish contacts, learn from each other, and share knowledge in activism and advocacy and thus impact directly on local communities.

 

Dates and venue

• 05.-14. June 2023, in Berlin/Germany
• The venue is KuBIZ Berlin

 

Activities

• Exchange between participants and local activists/organisations;
• Discussions with experts to raise awareness of the issue and gain the necessary theoretical and practical background;
• Peer–to–peer learning programmes and workshops;
• Methodological and practical training in field research methods, interviewing locals on their perceptions, memories, needs, ideas; mapping of safe/risky spaces, data collection and management, video documentation;
• Training on digital campaigning and awareness creation;
• Training on writing, layout and publishing in order to enhance visibility and to give voice to affected people.

 

Aims

• Support and advocate for the rights of LGBTQI+ people;
• Acquire skills and competences to more effectively do so and to strengthen the concerns of LGBTQI+ individuals and communities;
• Introduce participants to specific problems of LGBTQI+ community and gender inequality;
• Compare realities, exchange perspectives and share experience on how LGBTQI+ problems are being tackled in each partner country;
• Share strategies and build up capacity to overcome these problems;
• Learn how to raise awareness among others and how to share knowledge, advocate and campaign for gender justice;
• Contribute to more visibility for LGBTQI+ communities especially in partner countries through creating visual and informative materials e.g. videos, flyers, magazines, posters and social media campaigns

 

Outcome

• Participants create their own zine/booklet with personal stories from interviewed persons;
• Online campaigning activity to advocate for visibility of LGBTQI+