Ahlan: A social event event for the LGBTI Arabic-speaking community

Beit el Hob is hosting a social event for people from Arabic speaking communities who are same-sex attracted, trans*, intersex and/or queer.

The social event will take place from 5pm - 9pm on Sunday 20 October at the Red Rattler Theatre in Marrickville, and will bring the community together over a delicious dinner, good company, conversation, music, stories and short films. LGBTQI people from Arabic speaking communities are invited to bring along supportive family and friends.

Beit el Hob's Nicole Barakat said "come and meet other people from our diverse, strong and resilient community. Bring your supportive family members, friends, partners and allies and help us build our beautiful LGBTQI Arabic speaking community. Share a traditional meal and hear some of the stories that shape our community and affirm our identities and lived experiences."

Barakat went on to say that in the early 2000s, a prominent LGBTQI Arab culture began to emerge & make itself known on the Sydney queer scene. "A social movement was created that enabled us to have our voices heard on our own terms and to let everyone know that we exist".

Groups like Beit el Hob formed and marched in the Mardi Gras parade for the first time. Events like Club Arak were bringing LGBTQI people from Arabic speaking communities & their allies together.

Randa Kattan of the Arab Council Australia said that "concerns about homophobia in Arab families and Arab communities precipitated a study into the effects of homophobia on same-sex attracted people from Arabic speaking backgrounds, the results of which were published in a ground breaking report launched in 2012 called "We're Family Too".

The report is currently being translated into Arabic for launch in Western Sydney in late 2013.

LGBTQI people from Arabic speaking communities are urged to come along and hear more about the project and plans to support the community. Members of the community can also hear more about how to get involved.

Entry is free but RSVP is essential for catering purposes.

This is an all ages & alcohol free event.

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What, when, where?

What: Beit el HDownload the Ahlan event posterob presents: Ahlan
When: Sunday 20 October 2013, 5pm - 9pm
Where: The Red Rattler Theatre, 6 Faversham St, Marrickville
RSVP: beitelhobis@gmail.com or call Teddy 9206 2030

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More info

Call: 9206 2030
Email: beitelhobis@gmail.com
Visit: www.wearefamilytoo.com.au