Warning: This article discusses domestic violence.

Mental health support organisation Connection And Wellbeing Australia (CAWA) are inviting LGBTQIA+ community members and people who work in health, mental health, government and other relevant sectors to the launch of Rainbow Gate.

Rainbow Gate is a chatbot designed by and for the Western Australian LGBTIQA+ community to access support and information about Family and Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Violence (FDV/IPV).

The initiative will provide resources about the safety, equality or health of LGBTIQA+ people’s relationships, as well as places to reach out for connection and support.

Department of Communities provided funding for Ruah Community Services to develop a chatbot that responded to FDV/IPV, working with Connection and Wellbeing Australia to create a service that caters to LGBTIQA+ specific needs.

Speaking to OUTinPerth, Managing Director of Connection And Wellbeing Australia, Bella Broadway says there is a massive gap in knowledge, support and services in WA.

“We knew this needed to be more than a chatbot, but rather a place that contained information about the very specific ways that LGBTIQA+ communities experience FDV/IPV,” Broadway explains.

The two organisations are working to fill these knowledge gaps, while ensuring the project is entirely led by the LGBTQIA+ community and experts.

“Ruah have been amazing in their allyship to get this project off the ground. They understand that the project has to be 100% led and delivered for and by LGBTIQA+ people, from the consultant groups, developers, designers and even the caterers.”

Rainbow Gate engaged a Design and Consultancy Group of 10 regional based and 10 metropolitan based LGBTIQA+ people who are contributing to the chatbot and associated resources.

National studies show approximately 1 in 3 LGBTIQA+ people experience FDV or IPV and face significant barriers to accessing mainstream support services.

Understanding and awareness of Western Australian LGBTQIA+ experiences with FDV/IPV are limited due to constraints in current research including small numbers of WA participants among the data, as well as questions about services that do not exist in our state.

“There is so much diversity within the LGBTIQA+ community, so we are seeking a diverse range of people to be part of these groups,” Broadway continued.

“It is important that we bring in the intersections of gender, sexuality, body, relationships, culture, language, ability, age and many other aspects of lived experience, as these have bearing on how someone may think about, feel about, or experience FDV/IPV.”

The Rainbow Gate project will also be informed by a community survey, set to be released in the coming weeks to understand a broad range of perspectives on the issue.

“We will also be doing one-on-one conversations and supporting LGBTIQA+ groups and services to undertake their own micro-consultations if they require,” Broadway tells us.

“It is about empowering anyone who has directly or indirectly experienced FDV/IPV to have their voice heard and ensure the product that is created works for the community.”

Rainbow Gate is set to be designed for people who need to access this support themselves, and also accessible for those who are concerned about a LGBTQIA+ friend, family member or loved one.

“We know that LGBTIQA+ people experiencing FDV/IPV often turn to community to support them, as services are not informed of their needs,” Broadway said.

“This is why part of Rainbow Gate includes training FDV workers and counsellors in LGBTIQA+ FDV best practice to ensure that they are equipped to support people in a safe, inclusive and informed way.”

The project will also deliver free LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV workshops for LGBTIQA+ groups across the state.

“We have been delivering our LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV training to services, police, and community groups and now with this project we will really be able to set the stage to build awareness about this issue,” Broadway says.

“We hope that the LGBTIQA+ community is able to join us in creating something meaningful and impactful.”

Rainbow Gate Project Launch will be held on Tuesday 22 November 2022 at The Platform Perth. To register your interest, head to Surveyplanet.

Connection and Wellbeing Australia are also holding FREE Professional LGBTQIA+ Family Violence and Intimate Partner Violence workshops as part of PrideFEST. In-person on Tuesday 22 November and online and in-person on Wednesday 23 November.

Leigh Andrew Hill

Do you need some support?

If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, support and counselling are available from:

QLife: 1800 184 527 / qlife.org.au (Webchat 3pm – midnight)
QLife are a counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people.

DISCHARGED: info@discharged.org.au / discharged.org.au
Discharged is a trans-led support service with peer support groups for trans and gender diverse folks.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 / lifeline.org.au

Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 / www.beyondblue.org.au

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post LGBTQIA+ domestic violence support Rainbow Gate launch & workshops appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Warning: This article discusses domestic violence.

Mental health support organisation Connection And Wellbeing Australia (CAWA) are calling for LGBTIQA+ community involvement in the upcoming Rainbow Gate project.

Rainbow Gate is a chatbot designed by and for the Western Australian LGBTIQA+ community to access support and information about Family and Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Violence (FDV/IPV).

The initiative will provide resources about the safety, equality or health of LGBTIQA+ people’s relationships, as well as places to reach out for connection and support.

Department of Communities provided funding for Ruah Community Services to develop a chatbot that responded to FDV/IPV, working with Connection and Wellbeing Australia to create a service that caters to LGBTIQA+ specific needs.

Speaking to Managing Director of Connection And Wellbeing Australia, Bella Broadway told OUTinPerth there is a massive gap in knowledge, support and services in WA.

“We knew this needed to be more than a chatbot, but rather a place that contained information about the very specific ways that LGBTIQA+ communities experience FDV/IPV,” Broadway explains.

The two organisations are working to fill these knowledge gaps, while ensuring the project is entirely led by the LGBTQIA+ community and experts.

“Ruah have been amazing in their allyship to get this project off the ground. They understand that the project has to be 100% led and delivered for and by LGBTIQA+ people, from the consultant groups, developers, designers and even the caterers.”

Rainbow Gate will guided by a Design and Consultancy Group of 10 regional based and 10 metropolitan based LGBTIQA+ people who will contribute to the chatbot and associated resources.

National studies show approximately 1 in 3 LGBTIQA+ people experience FDV or IPV and face significant barriers to accessing mainstream support services.

Understanding and awareness of Western Australian LGBTQIA+ experiences with FDV/IPV are limited due to constraints in current research including small numbers of WA participants among the data, as well as questions about services that do not exist in our state.

“There is so much diversity within the LGBTIQA+ community, so we are seeking a diverse range of people to be part of these groups,” Broadway continued.

“It is important that we bring in the intersections of gender, sexuality, body, relationships, culture, language, ability, age and many other aspects of lived experience, as these have bearing on how someone may think about, feel about, or experience FDV/IPV.”

The Rainbow Gate project will also be informed by a community survey, set to be released in the coming weeks to understand a broad range of perspectives on the issue.

“We will also be doing one-on-oone conversations and supporting LGBTIQA+ groups and services to undertake their own micro-consultations if they require,” Broadway tells us.

“It is about empowering anyone who has directly or indirectly experienced FDV/IPV to have their voice heard and ensure the product that is created works for the community.”

Rainbow Gate is set to be designed for people who need to access this support themselves, and also accessible for those who are concerned about a LGBTQIA+ friend, family member or loved one.

“We know that LGBTIQA+ people experiencing FDV/IPV often turn to community to support them, as services are not informed of their needs,” Broadway said.

“This is why part of Rainbow Gate includes training FDV workers and counsellors in LGBTIQA+ FDV best practice to ensure that they are equipped to support people in a safe, inclusive and informed way.”

The project will also deliver free LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV workshops for LGBTIQA+ groups across the state.

“We have been delivering our LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV training to services, police, and community groups and now with this project we will really be able to set the stage to build awareness about this issue,” Broadway says.

“We hope that the LGBTIQA+ community is able to join us in creating something meaningful and impactful.”

As a separate but connected piece of work, CAWA is also supporting the Department of Justice in their consultations about Coercive Control Legislation Reform.

“This will be a meeting for LGBTIQA+ community members to have their say on what they think needs to change in the way the Coercive Control is legislated across WA.”

Applications for the Design and Consultancy Group are open until 16 August 2022. For more information, head to Surveyplanet.

The Coercive Control Legislation Reform will be held on 19 August 2022, in person or online. For more information, contact coercivecontrol@justice.wa.gov.au

Leigh Andrew Hill

Do you need some support?

If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, support and counselling are available from:

QLife: 1800 184 527 / qlife.org.au (Webchat 3pm – midnight)
QLife are a counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people.

DISCHARGED: info@discharged.org.au / discharged.org.au
Discharged is a trans-led support service with peer support groups for trans and gender diverse folks.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 / lifeline.org.au

Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 / www.beyondblue.org.au

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post Input sought on LGBTQIA+ domestic violence support service Rainbow Gate appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Warning: This article contains mentions of domestic and intimate partner violence.

May 28 marks LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, an opportunity to highlight the needs of our communities when it comes to prevention and support.

First marked in Australia in 2020, the day aims to shine a light on family, partner and intimate violence in LGBTQIA+ relationships, and the need for tailored support services for survivors and training for those seeking to provide assistance.

Director of training and support organisation Connection and Wellbeing Australia (CAWA), Bella Broadway, notes LGBTQIA+ community experiences are often vastly different, especially when it comes to support or seeking help.

“LGBTIQA+ people often don’t view their experiences as Family Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence, as the public health messaging does not represent them or their lives,” Broadway tells OUTinPerth.

“Services are often not able to meet the need of LGBTIQA+ community so the burden falls to friends and chosen community who also may not have an understanding of how to work with FDV or IPV.”

Statistics often don’t reflect what is happening here in Western Australia where national research often focuses on the eastern states, though recent figures show that nationwide more than 4 in 10 LGBTQIA+ people had experienced abuse from a partner, while almost 4 in 10 had experienced abuse from a family member.

“Several years ago there was more happening across WA in this space and there has been some amazing individuals and organisations who have tried to keep this in the agenda for decades,” Broadway continued.

“WA has so much wisdom and expertise – we just need the resources to make real change happen.”

On the west coast, Connection and Wellbeing Australia have been working for the last five years to deliver LGBTQIA+ specific FDV and IPV workshops to service providers, counsellors, first responders and police to help them understand the unique drivers and contributors to LGBTQIA+ FDV and IPV.

“This year we have also partnered with Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing to deliver a series of workshops in LGBTIQA+ Inclusive Practice, LGBTIQA+ FDV, and LGBTIQA+ Sexual Violence workshops to help build the capacity of these services to meet the diverse needs of the community.”

“This is an important act of visible Allyship as these gendered services begin to reflect on how on they can begin to do better to support LGBTIQA+ communities.”

CAWA have also partnered with the LGBTQ FDV Awareness Foundation for the launch of the establishment of a WA-based coordinator to help bring these issues to light in WA.

“WA is a long way behind many eastern states in terms or research, specific LGBTIQA support services and resourcing this work to be able to make wide-reaching systemic change,” Broadway adds.

“We are really starting from a very different place here in WA, there is a lot of work yet to be done.”

This year, CAWA are attending an event with WA Police to mark LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, alongside their work advocating for the McGowan Government to commit to LGBTQIA+ FDV prevention.

“It will take the efforts of the whole of LGBTIQA+ community groups and mainstream FDV services to begin to lessen the gaps that exist in WA. We were heartened to see Simone McGurk’s office share an acknowledgment on LGBTQ FDV Awareness Day on their social media this year. We hope that this signals a willingness to work with us in the future,” Broadway says.

“Hopefully with the launch of the foundation in WA we can work together to build momentum and real action.”

CAWA have also created a resource to help raise awareness on LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, check it out here to help spread the word.

LGBTQIA+ FDV Awareness Day Workshop & Launch will be held on Tuesday May 31.

Do you need some support?

If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, support and counselling are available from:

QLife: 1800 184 527 / qlife.org.au (Webchat 3pm – midnight)
QLife are a counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people.

DISCHARGED: info@discharged.org.au / discharged.org.au
Discharged is a trans-led support service with peer support groups for trans and gender diverse folks.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 / lifeline.org.au

Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 / www.beyondblue.org.au

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day: What's happening in WA? appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Perth’s LGBTIQA+ focused radio program All Things Queer has been nominated for a Community Broadcasting Association Australia Awards.

The program, which airs at 11am each Wednesday morning on RTRFM 92.1, is nominated for Excellence in News and Current Affairs Programming.

Covering queer news and culture, the show was launched back in 2010 and has built up a loyal audience over the years. Hosted by Tom Reynolds, Sophie Minissale, Harriet Kenny, Bella Broadway and Leigh Andrew Hill the program covers everything from breaking news, politics, health and cultural reports.

OUTinPerth’s Leigh Andrew Hill and Graeme Watson volunteer time to the program serving as coordinators for the program. While Hill is one of the show’s hosts, Watson files occasional reports, while helping mentor presenters and guide the program’s content.

Nominated alongside All Things Queer is a wide variety of programs from around the country including Able Radio from Mainfm, Balit Dhumba Strong Talk from #KND Kool ‘N’ Deadly, Covid Report from Wangki Yupurnanupurru, The Wire – which airs on several community stations, Noongar Radio’s Law Matters, and a special report on the West Gate Bridge Disaster – 50 Years On created by Melbourne’s 3CR Community Radio.

RTRFM 92.1 leads the tally in the awards with 10 nominations, the most of any station in the country.

The station has been nominated for Excellence in Training, while also picking up a nomination for Excellence in Outside Broadcasting for their presentation at the opening of the new WA Museum Boola Bardip, and a nomination for their special event WA Mixtape which celebrated local music. 

Rok Riley, who presents the incredibly popular Friday edition of electronic music program Full Frequency has been nominated for Excellence in Music Presenting, Breakfast With Taylah has been recognised for supporting Australian music, and the station has also picked up nominations for their production work and fundraising efforts.

The weekly segment Slightly Odway, which sees local bands cover songs from other Perth bands was nominated for best online content. The segment is presented as a video online showing the bands playing in the station’s green room.

Fiona Bartholomaeus, who hosts the Wednesday edition of current affairs program On The Record is nominated for Best Youth Contribution.

RTRFM’s General Manager Simon Miraudo welcomed the many nominations.

“We are humbled by the recognition, and though no one here is doing it for the awards, it’s always nice to get a pat on the back! I’m particularly grateful that the nominations touch almost every aspect of RTRFM, from our Music and Talks Programming, to our in-studio and live Production, to our Merch/Fundraising efforts, and even our Training program. It’s a testament to every single staff member, presenter and volunteer who makes RTRFM what it is.” Miraudo said.

“I’d also like to congratulate each of the stations recognised with a nomination, as well as those many hundreds of community stations that weren’t recognised but continue to give voice to underserved communities and strengthen Australia’s independent media.”

Melbourne’s queer radio station JOYFM has also been nominated for multiple awards including technical innovation and Best Music Program for Living in the 70s.

The post 'All Things Queer' nominated for Community Broadcasting Award appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Perth’s LGBTQIA+ communities came together to celebrate fabulous local talent, community spirit and enjoy a spectacular show at The Proud Awards 2021 ceremony over the weekend.

Now in it’s sixth year, the awards have grown from a celebration of Perth’s incredible drag scene, to also honour others who work towards strengthening the local LGBTQIA+ community.

Ahead of this year’s celebrations it was revealed that Connections Nightclub owner Tim Brown would be joining the Hall of Fame, alongside local icons DJ Seb Sharp, Mark Reid, Aunty Vanessa Smith, June Lowe and Strykermeyer.

Hosted by Donna Kebab and Fay Rocious, the audience was treated to entertainment from a slue of Perth performers: BarbieQ, Alexas Armstrong, Veronica Jean Jones, Ruby Jewelz, Lotta L’Amore, Sassie Cassie, Miss Cara, Perri Prism, Ginava, Justin Sider, Liberty Genre, Danisa Snake, Jaxon Coke, Bobby Knox, Flynn V, Daddy Hayden, Leggy Blonde, Toots and A Woman Named Jovi – as well as the hostesses and organiser Dean Misdale themselves!

Though she was in control of the night’s proceedings, Fay Rocious was in for a surprise with a massive five award wins. The queen took home Drag Show of the Year for her Dua Lipa inspired Future Nostaglia show, Perth’s Favourite Drag Queen, Miss Congeniality, Perth’s Favourite Event (Drag Factory, alongside fellow hosts Cougar Morrison, Donna Kebab and Alexas Armstrong) and the much-coveted Entertainer of the Year.

Danisa Snake and Justin Sider both took home Best New Drag Talent after a tie in the public voting, while Kayty Banks snapped up DJ of the Year, Perri Prism lit up the room as Creative Artist of the Year for her wonderful wiggery and Demi Licious was voted Best of the Ball for her fiery phoenix look and beautiful tribute to her friend on the night.

The mighty Perth Rams were once again voted Sports Club of the Year for their community building efforts and Perth Gay Social Club earned Social Group of the Year as they ramp up their events across the city.

Connection and Wellbeing Australia’s Bella Broadway took home the Community Spirit Award for her work in suicide prevention and mental health, Serenity Von Varda and the team behind Live Work Pose took out Variety Show of the Year for their fierce fundraising event and OUTinPerth’s own Graeme Watson was honoured for Outstanding Community Contribution.

OIP Staff

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post Local talent celebrated at The Proud Awards 2021 ceremony appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Warning: This article contains mentions of domestic and intimate partner violence.

LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day is coming up this Friday 28th May, following the theme #SeenAndBelieved.

First marked in Australia just last year, the day aims to shine a light on domestic violence in LGBTQ+ relationships, and the need for tailored support services for survivors and training for those seeking to provide assistance.

Here in Western Australia, Connection and Wellbeing Australia (CAWA) will be running a special workshop to outline how family & domestic violence (FDV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) presents in LGBTQIA+ relationships and specific contributors, as well as unique LGBTQIA+ challenges and how mainstream services can work inclusively with our communities.

CAWA Founder and Managing Director Bella Broadway has been running these workshops for years, hoping to expand understand of these subjects within local groups and services.

This LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day, Bella is particularly concerned about gaps in funding, as well as a lack of safe and inclusive services for LGBTQIA+ people.

“There is so much more work to be done and for now we need to do whatever we can to build the capacity of services and the community to better support LGBTIQA+ people who are experiencing FDV and IPV,” Bella tells OUTinPerth.

“Like many other health and wellbeing issues, the burden of support has fallen to informal LGBTIQA+ groups and individuals to provide support when it is needed.”

“Our community has a history of meeting the gaps when our systems and structures aren’t able to provide what we need. If you are non-binary or trans and can’t access a shelter, or single gendered spaces aren’t safe for you because your partner is able to access them, or emergency responders aren’t able to identify situations of FDV and IPV due to stereotypes and misinformation they have, then the responses we have to this issue are not meeting the needs of our community.”

“Like many other issues – the experiences and needs of the LGBTIQA+ community are unique and services and supports need to reflect that.”

Bella will also be speaking at the WA Police Family and Domestic Violence Conference on Thursday the 27th May, a first for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in this area.

“Seeing services and supports make commitments to learn the barriers that the LGBTIQA+ face in seeking help for this issue and learning how they can better understand the needs of the community is a vital step forward,” Bella continues.

“We also need to build the capacity of the LGBTIQA+ community to better understand what FDV and IPV looks like, as the public health messaging on this issue has missed the mark in being able to reflect the experiences of the community and help them understand how power and control can look in LGBTIQA+ relationships.

CAWA is working with key service providers and LGBTIQA+ community to seek funding for a broader project that can help address the gaps that exist for people seeking support.

“Until we can fund this larger piece of work it is about working with LGBTIQA+ peers and service provider allies who can help meet the needs as best as they can in the current system,” Bella tells us.

“We treat everyone the same just doesn’t cut it. We need action and systemic change.”

“We are throwing out the challenge to government, departments, service providers to connect with us. Only together will we be able to make the systemic changes needed to ensure that LGBTIQA+ have access to equitable and safe supports.”

LGBTQIA+ Family and Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Violence workshop will be held on Friday 28th May at The Platform Perth.

To register for the workshop head to Surveyplanet or for more info about CAWA head over to connectionandwellbeing.com.au

Leigh Andrew Hill

Do you need some support?

If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, support and counselling are available from:

QLife: 1800 184 527 / qlife.org.au (Webchat 3pm – midnight)
QLife are a counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people.

White Ribbon Australia: 1800 RESPECT
Please note this service is not LGBTQIA+ specific.

DISCHARGED: 9364 6909 / waamh.org.au / wearedischarged@gmail.com
Discharged is a trans-led support service with peer support groups for trans and gender diverse folks.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 / lifeline.org.au

Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 / www.beyondblue.org.au

The post LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Awareness Day shows need for action appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Join the team from Connection and Wellbeing Australia (CAWA) for their fourth annual community connection event for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex discrimination and Transphobia next month.

This year, CAWA are facilitating a conversation that will focus on the stories of First Nations folks, PoC, CALD and Bla(c)k LGBTQIA+ folks, exploring the intersections of culture, community and identity.

LGBTQIA+ folks, health and mental health services, community groups and allies are invited to come along for a yarn about allyship, visibility and connection with a shared goal of learning how we can all be better at walking together.

Panelists include Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Equity and Indigenous) and Head of Kurongkurl Katitjin, ECU’s Centre of Indigenous Australian Education and Research Professor Braden Hill (he/him), health & community care worker and advocate Deborah Costello (she/her), young professional and AFL player Ashara Wills, businesswoman and proud mum Prem Wills and videographer Bernadette Ong.

There will also be other activities available on the day with delicious afternoon tea, Rabble Books & Games will have a selection of BIPOC & queer books on sale and Born To Sparkle will be bringing a touch of glitter and pride.

The FREE event will be presented in person and via online webinar, and the event will be Auslan interpreted. Registration is essential!

IDAHoBIT 2021 Boorloo (Perth) will be held at North Perth Town Hall on Monday 17th May from 10am. Head here for in-person registration, or follow this link to register for online attendance.

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post May 17th is IDAHoBIT: Let’s talk about culture, community & identity appeared first on OUTinPerth.

Greenfield | Dir: Julius Telmer | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

Just after dawn, the country town of Greenfield is coming to life and James (Ethan Tomas) is dropped off by a truck driving through. As he walks to his destination, a huge party is getting underway to welcome Kelley back to town after she had spent 10 years in Perth. City boy James is on a mission to win back his former girlfriend – country girl Kelley (Marthe Rovik) who broke up with him to returned home.

This compelling indie-drama was filmed entirely in Merredin by Danish filmmaker Julius Telmer. It is a snapshot of small-town Australia, complete with dew on rusty clothes hoists and spitting contests while sitting on the trailer in the back yard. As the outsider, James is able to see some interesting dynamics and he is puzzled as to why Kelley would return to a place where women are treated to badly.

Notions of masculinity are explored as the males have metaphoric pissing contests, bully and belittle those who don’t fit in and throw punches when all else fails. As Telmer says, “Greenfield is a place where men don’t talk about feelings, they get into fights, drink alcohol, hang out at the local burnout spot and flog their fast cars and motorbikes”.

As is the way in many small towns, atrocities are not reported and some of the characters are really suffering with the amount of abuse they have endured. When Kelly’s brother Michael (Liam Graham) accidently reveals his hidden homosexuality, it sets off a catastrophic chain of destruction.

After being cancelled by the Covid restrictions, Greenfield will now have its opening screening on Thursday 13 May at 6pm at Luna Leederville. The gala event will have a Q&A, moderated by Annie Murtagh-Monks.

Audience members will be able to talk with producer Daniel Tenni and some of the local acting talent including Ethan Tomas, Claudia Cirillo, Liam Graham and Bella Broadway of Connection and Wellbeing Australia and ask questions.

Lezly Herbert

You can support our work by subscribing to our Patreon
or contributing to our GoFundMe campaign.

The post Review | A young man's coming out sparks catastrophe in 'Greenfield' appeared first on OUTinPerth.

As part of this year’s PrideFEST, Connection and Wellbeing Australia (CAWA) are hosting two educational workshops that hold vital information for anyone who is seeking to be a better ally to LGBTIQ+ communities.

CAWA have been providing essential training and support for many years to organisations, community groups and individuals, working towards a mentally healthy and suicide safer community in WA.

Bella Broadway of CAWA joined us for a conversation about how these workshops promote diversity, inclusive practice, and prepare folks to deal with family & domestic violence and intimate partner violence situations.

Pride is often seen as a celebration for LGBTQIA+ folks, but it’s also a chance for the wider community to engage with LGBTQIA+ issues; Why should non-queer folks engage with diversity/inclusivity workshop?

Being informed about the diverse needs of the communities we live work and play in is the responsibility of all of us. Some of the most common reactions we hear to Inclusive Practice workshops are “ We don’t have any LGBTIQA+ clients/staff”- which is almost statistically impossible and often speaks to the fact that either LGBTIQA+ folks do not feel this is a safe place to disclose, or they simply aren’t asked or “We treat everyone equally and are non-judgemental”- which is great in theory, but terrible in practice.

LGBTIQA+ folks deserve to have their needs understood and to be treated in a way that ensures that despite the many barriers and challenges they face to accessing services they receive the opportunities for the same outcomes as non LGBTIQA+ folks.

Most discrimination is based on misinformation and is unintentional. Engaging with Inclusive Practice lessens the chance that you will be accidentally discriminating against LGBTIQA+ folks and/or reinforcing barriers they face in accessing services and community spaces.

I was undertaking some study last year and one of the assessments was to do a speaking session about any topic. A biology teacher in the class did a presentation about X and Y genes and during the session I had indicated that he was leaving out a massive chunk of information about Intersex variations at this genetic level. We had a chat afterwards and then I gave him some information from IHRA. He was shocked that he had never been taught this information. The next day he came back in and told me that the night before he was at the pub with a long-time friend and was telling him about what he had learned, after a while the friend disclosed that he had an Intersex Variation and that no-one outside of the family had ever been told. This biology teacher did not intentionally discriminate in his classes, but by not being informed about the topic he was inadvertently invalidating a whole population of people and their lived experience. He (and his friend) are now engaged in Intersex advocacy and he has come to one of our workshops to learn how to be an ally to the broader LGBTIQA+ community.

For those who might be a bit unsure – in a nutshell, what does a diversity workshop entail?

First of all, its NOT about blame. We do not receive structured learning about sex, sexuality, gender and relationship diversity so we seldom have the opportunity to really take a look at these subjects so that we can better understand the needs of LGBTIQA+ people.

Inclusive Practice training breaks down these topics so we can clear up any myths, misinformation and stereotypes; it looks at how we can reduce or remove barriers faced by LGBTIQA+ folks; it talks about intersectional factors of identity; provides updated language; gives practical examples of how you can go back to your workplace/community space and instantly make changes to better support LGBTIQA+ folks and provides information of how you can connect with and support LGBTIQA+ community groups and services.

Most importantly, the workshops provide a safe space for people to openly ask questions, challenge information or views that they hold and be open to learning.

Can LGBTQIA+ people learn from these workshops as well?

Absolutely! As mentioned before, we do not really receive any structured learning on these topics- and that includes if you happen to be part of the LGBTIQA+ community yourself. Learning (and unlearning) a lot of the myths and stereotypes about being LGBTIQA+ can help on an individual level to challenge any internalised feelings of homo/bi/trans phobia and intersex discrimination and it can also help us understand be a better ally to the people in our communities that have life experiences that are different from our own. Also, our understandings about these topics grows more every day, so there is always something new to learn.

It is so important for the LGBTIQA+ community to learn how we can be the best allies to one another and this can definitely help limit lateral hostility and help unify us in the fight for true equality. It is so important to have many voices speaking up for the LGBTIQA+ community, as no one person or group can represent the wonderful diversity under our rainbow.

Can people engage these workshops outside of Pride season also?

We sure hope that they do. Throughout the year CAWA creates tailored workshops for all kinds of industries and community groups to help them build their inclusive practice skills and we can deliver in-person or virtual workshops.

As a social enterprise we are focused on finding a way to resource training for any service, educator, organisation or community space who needs it. Often CAWA also partners with an LGBTIQ+ community group to donate part proceeds to help them do the vital work they do for our community. Every single workshop we do and resource that we sell also helps fund community suicide prevention projects.

CAWA can also provide policy and consultancy support and deliver Mental Health 101, Suicide First Aid, Self -Care and Burnout, Communication and whole host of other workshops.

You’re also running a FDV/IPV workshop – we know this is an issue where policy/training often overlooks LGBTQIA+ communities – what should people know about FDV/IPV?

Firstly, that everyone deserves the right to live free from violence and threats.

Secondly, that Family and Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence (FDV/IPV) IS experienced by LGBTIQA+ people.

Third, that FDV and IPV presents itself in unique ways within LGBTIQA+ contexts.

And lastly, that service providers need to do more to both understand the experiences of LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV and to able to safely accommodate and support ALL people who experience violence in this way.

Who is this FDV/IPV training aimed towards?

This workshop is focused toward service providers, people working in mental health and suicide prevention, first responders, lawyers, crisis staff, people working in education and anyone whose job it may be to notice or respond to people experiencing FDV/IPV. There are only a few places remaining in this workshop but this is really the start of the conversations and the work to be done in this space. CAWA will be working heavily around LGBTIQA+ FDV and IPV in 2021 and pushing for real cultural and systemic changes, so if any individuals or organisations want to be part of this work, please reach out.

Where can people find support now, if needed?

If you need support for yourself or you are worried about someone else, talking about it is the first step.

You can contact QLife to talk to an LGBTIQA+ peer, 3pm-midnight (1880 187 524 or www.qlife.org)

You can contact 1800 RESPECT / 1800 737 732 to access information and resources about FDV & IPV.

You can find out more about LGBTIQA+ FDV/IPV at www.anothercloset.com.au

You can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Samaritans on 14 52 47

LGBTQI+ Family and Domestic Violence & Intimate Partner Violence Workshop will be held on Monday 16th November from 10am at The Platform Perth. Find more information here.

Foundations of Diversity and Inclusive Practice Workshop will be held online on Friday 20th November. More info here.

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The post CAWA brings two essential workshops to PrideFEST 2020 appeared first on OUTinPerth.

UPDATE: PrideFEST Soiree @ UWA has been postponed due to bad weather. Stay tuned for a new date.

Pride WA’s 2020 PrideFEST celebrations are kicking off this weekend, with a selection of events at the University of Western Australia.

Join WA’s LGBTQIA+ communities for a series of discussions all day long at the UWA Club for Rainbow Talks, highlighting the work of numerous organisatons and individuals both in the spotlight and behind the scenes.

Rainbow Talks begins with a presentation from GRAI (Gay and Lesbian Rights in Ageing Inc.), highlighting the fight for inclusive aged care, challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ elders and creating a soulful space for rainbow elders in WA.

TransFolk of WA chair Hunter Gurevich and former chair Alyce Schotte will be delivering their Trans 101 training, exploring the specific problems faced by trans and gender diverse people, and looking at practical ways to be more inclusive in the wider community.

Living Proud’s Sarah Collins explores the breadth of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, comparing mainstream understandings and intersectional experiences, and PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Perth’s Kate Salinger explores the role of allies working with queer folks.

Connection and Wellbeing Australia’s Bella Broadway will be talking From Surviving To Thriving, and addressing the work that has been done in mental health and suicide prevention, the power of inclusive training and practice, and how visibility can support wellbeing.

Dr Gregory Chang of Gay Dads WA and lawyer Marty Kavanagh will be part of a panel looking at rainbow parenting, Key Assets WA will be talking Fostering With Pride and the WA AIDS Council want audiences to know that Nothing Is More Attractive Than Safe Sex.

From 2pm, PrideFEST Soiree takes over the UWA Club’s surrounding gardens with a picnic to bring local LGBTQIA+ communities together, in the spirit of Fair Day.

The picnic will feature stalls from local organisations and creators, live art installations, musical performances, kids activities, a DJ and a bar – all you need is a picnic blanket and a basket full of goodies. Hampers are also available for pre-order.

Rainbow Talks and PrideFEST Soiree are running in tandem with Thinking Queerly, an LGBTQIA+ focused art symposium featuring curator Dunja Rmandic and former Justice of the High Court, the Hon. Michael Kirby, at the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery.

Pride WA’s Rainbow Talks runs this Saturday 14th November from 9am – 5pm, and PrideFEST Soiree takes over the gardens from 2pm – 6pm. To register for these free events, head to pridefest.pridewa.com.au

OIP Staff, image: Pride WA Fair Day, 2015

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