Participation in the event ‘Queer Diaspora: Political Participation, Experiences, and Perspectives’ was a significant opportunity in the discussion of experiences and forms of activism within the LGBTQIAP+ immigrant community in Portugal. Organized by the @migranteparticipaemsintra project in partnership with the Candomblé terreiro @ilelogunosun and held at the Espaço Tapada Com.Unidade, the event brought together influential and diverse voices from the community, including Rod from the Afrontosas Collective and UNA União Negra das Artes, Flow, researcher and activist, and Pedro Silva, founder of the Sintra Friendly Association.
These participants brought a wealth of knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the intersections of identity, migration, and LGBTQIAP+ activism. Rod, representing both the Afrontosas Collective and UNA União Negra das Artes, shared insights into the unique experiences of LGBTQIAP+ Black immigrants in Portugal. Flow, as a researcher and activist, provided a critical analysis of the social and political dynamics shaping the lives of LGBTQIAP+ immigrants in the country. Pedro Silva, from the Sintra Friendly Association, emphasized the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTQIAP+ immigrant community.
This event was a valuable opportunity for TransParadise and other participants to not only share their experiences and challenges but also to collaborate in seeking effective strategies to promote equality and inclusion. The convergence of different perspectives and experiences reinforced the need for a more comprehensive and intersectional approach in public policies and community initiatives, aiming for a better understanding and support of LGBTQIAP+ immigrant communities in Portugal.
Speaker profile card (in Portuguese): Freda Paranhos — screenwriter, independent producer and senior Arts officer at Casa do Brasil de Lisboa.
Event poster (in Portuguese): “Queer Diaspora: Political Participation, Experiences and Perspectives” — 10 August, 18:30, Espaço Tapada Com.Unidade, Tapada das Mercês.