Queer Cyprus Association held the fifth session of its thematic discussion series as part of the Helix Project, financed under the European Union Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community and implemented by the Queer Cyprus Association. The session was titled “Building an Inclusive and United Queer Community: Solidarity Beyond Cultural and Political Borders.“. The event took place at Home for Cooperation with the participation of activists and community members from both the northern and southern parts of Cyprus.
The discussion focused on how queer communities can come together on the basis of mutual understanding and respect without ignoring their cultural diversities. Participants emphasized that despite the island’s historical division, the shared experiences of queer individuals serve as a unifying element. Bilingual communication, inclusive representation, and bi-communal initiatives were highlighted as crucial in building trust and a sense of belonging.
While discussing the role of Pride events in enhancing visibility and community building, it was stressed that these events should be viewed not only as celebrations but also as political platforms. Topics such as the erasure of bisexual identity, transphobia, and the vulnerability of queer refugees were noted as areas needing greater visibility during Pride events.
Ways to make queer identities from both communities visible in their unique forms were also addressed. Suggestions included joint storytelling, bilingual zines, and cultural festivals. The need for more participatory and intersectional approaches among activists and artists was discussed, emphasizing that events should not be limited to performances but should also serve as spaces for collective creation.
Beyond physical spaces, creating emotionally and mentally safe environments was identified as a key discussion point. Trauma-informed facilitation, active listening, and accountability mechanisms were highlighted in this context.
The importance of intergenerational dialogue within the queer movement was underlined. It was noted that bringing together the experiences of older queer activists with the energy of younger queer individuals could strengthen this dialogue through storytelling sessions and mentorship programs.
The conversation also explored ways to move beyond visibility towards queer subjectification and empowerment. Participants emphasized the importance of queer individuals not only being represented but also becoming active agents in decision-making processes. Community media, leadership training, and political advocacy were listed as potential strategies.
Participants also discussed how cooperation in resource sharing and knowledge exchange could be carried out with respect to local contexts. Joint toolkits, translation efforts, and bilingual campaigns were proposed. The idea of a shared digital archive was also brought up.
Finally, challenges facing queer activism in the future were discussed, including burnout, fragmentation of the movement, and the risk of disconnection from the political context. In response, there was consensus that solidarity networks among queer and other marginalized communities, a collective care mindset, and imagination could help advance the movement further.
Organized as part of the HelixProject, this fifth event is part of a series of six thematic discussions carried out in collaboration with ACCEPT LGBTI and Queer Collective, aiming to contribute to the establishment of joint advocacy platforms among queer communities across Cyprus.
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