For allies
We often get questions whether people who do not identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community can come to our events, so we prepared some info to answer that.
Queerhoven is first and foremost a Queer Safe Space by and for Queer people. We used to define ourselves as "aggressively queer", but the truth is, we are unapologetically, defiantly and shamelessly queer.
We do not expect anyone to have to justify or disclose their identity. If you feel at home in Queerhoven, you are welcome, regardless of where you are in the journey of figuring out your place on the spectrum of sexuality and gender!
We expect everyone, regardless of how they identify, to uphold our Code of Conduct and keep the space safe and comfortable for all.
If you are very sure that you are not part of the LGBTQIA+ community but still would like to join our events, that is possible. We hope, as an ally, you’re intentional with your presence in the queer spaces and act respectfully. We’ve compiled some tips to help allies navigate our queer space.
- Reflect: Be mindful about your reason behind joining a queer space, especially when it comes to events with limited spots.
- Identity: don’t assume, question or try to guess someone’s identity. People are free to exist and deserve to be respected without giving you an explanation.
- Language: use gender neutral and inclusive language
- Queer space first:
- don’t center yourself. Our space is for safe queer self expression, regardless how it would make cisgender heterosexual people feel.
- don’t be afraid to ask questions/clarify (someone’s pronouns or if they are ok with something said/done), but don't expect them to give long and thorough answers, or to take time out of their day to teach you about their identity or other queer topics.
- we expect our allies to educate themselves (google is your friend ;)) and we put the needs and comfort of those in our community above educating allies.
Links/sources:
Allyship doesn’t start and end only when you’re in queer spaces or around queer people. Advocate for us in your own social circles and keep educating yourself. To learn more, check out these resources:
https://www.instagram.com/alokvmenon/
https://www.instagram.com/pinkmantaray/
https://www.instagram.com/lgbt/
https://www.instagram.com/blairimani
https://www.instagram.com/zoestoller/
https://preply.com/en/blog/gender-inclusive-languages-a-linguistic-journey-around-the-world/