In October 2023, LBQ+ activists from across Southeast Asia gathered in Bangkok for a three-day LBQ+ Safety and Care Meeting. Organized by the Asia Feminist LBQ Network in collaboration with Backyard Politics, the event aimed to nurture mutual learning, provide support, and develop practical strategies for prioritizing safety and care within LBQ organizing.
The meeting commenced with a deliberate effort to create a safe and inclusive space. Participants engaged in ice-breaking activities, shared their intentions for the meeting, and collectively established agreements to ensure that everyone felt respected and comfortable. These foundational steps set the stage for a collaborative and empowering atmosphere.
To initiate the meeting on a grounded note, participants took part in reflective grounding exercises. These exercises not only helped attendees center themselves but also created a shared sense of unity and purpose. Addressing a frequently overlooked aspect of activism, discussions on collective rest emerged, highlighting the need for activists to collectively manage stress for the sustainability of their work.
Diving into the impact of societal structures on their activism, participants engaged in open dialogue about their experiences. This self-awareness proved crucial, providing valuable insights into the diverse Safety and Care practices employed by fellow collectives and organizations. Understanding the broader context in which they operated empowered activists to navigate challenges more effectively.
Central to the meeting was the theme of collective care. Discussions revolved around how LBQ+ activists could support each other on both emotional and practical levels. Participants were encouraged to envision a better life for LBQ+ individuals, considering 10 aspects of well-being. This imaginative exercise spurred concrete discussions on actionable steps, emphasizing the collaborative responsibility of creating positive change within the LBQ+ community.
The meeting’s conclusion was marked by a symbolic gesture of solidarity. Participants exchanged white cotton thread bracelets, representing blessings and protection. This simple yet meaningful act served as a tangible reminder of the connections formed during the gathering. Additionally, each activist received a Safety and Care package for self-care, thoughtfully curated by local women’s organizations in Thailand. This exchange symbolized not only the bonds forged but also a commitment to carry the principles of Safety and Care back to their respective communities.
Beyond the immediate three-day event, we hope that the impact of the LBQ+ Safety and Care Meeting resonated deeply. Participants returned to their regions equipped with newfound perspectives, strengthened networks, and a renewed commitment to prioritizing Safety and Care within their activism. The collaboration between the Asia Feminist LBQ Network and Backyard Politics highlighted the potency of collective action in fostering sustainable change within the LBQ+ community.
This meeting wasn’t merely a temporary gathering; it represented ahope for LBQ+ activists working towards a world where well-being is not just an aspirational goal but a lived reality. As the ripple effects of this collaborative effort continue to spread, it stands as a testament to the power of solidarity in shaping a brighter future for LBQ+ individuals across Southeast Asia.
