ASWAT - Palestinian Gay Women

Queers without Borders recognizes ASWAT ~ Palestinian Gay Women Organization (Haifa, Israel) that provides a safe space and serves as a critical resource for Palestinian women who self-identify as lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgender or intersex. As they note, their mission is to raise our voices to echo in the corridors of our society, promote our existence to raise public awareness, and create a safe environment for gay Arab women within our Arab and Palestinian society.  According to Aswat, most of their members-enveloped by occupation, homophobia and misogyny-are closeted, and the very existence of these meetings is groundbreaking. Women travel from near and far, while enduring Israeli checkpoints or the loss of critical income from work. For many, it is the only time they can freely discuss their true selves in Arabic.

QWB has linked to a few excellent video’s produced by ASWAT and do check out their website or facebook, to learn much more  about their important work and how all queers around the world can be in solidarity with their amazing work.