LGBTIQ Rainbow Roundtable forum next week
Inner West Council will host an evening that invites the LGBTIQ community to share stories, celebrate diversity and plan for the future.
The Rainbow Roundtable forum and discussion, now just one week away, is at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre, Tuesday 29 August, 6pm.
Media are invited to attend.
Administrator of Inner West Council Richard Pearson said the Rainbow Roundtable will help Council plan for inclusion of the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Intersex and Questioning (LGBTIQ) community.
“Council absolutely recognises and celebrates that the inner west occupies a central place in Australia’s LGBTIQ history. We have a strong spirit of cooperation, trust and pride,” he said.
Mr Pearson said the forum will provide an invaluable platform for members of the local LGBTIQ communities to come together to discuss emerging issues and talk about local initiatives.
“The Rainbow Roundtable will provide an important opportunity for the local LGBTIQ community to contribute their ideas and views into Council's decision making processes,” he said.
This new event will encompass workshops and discussions on key issues and causes of concern. Attendees will brainstorm ideas, identify a vision for the future and help develop action plans to improve the day-to-day lives for members of the inner west LGBTIQ community.
Central topics will include:
- Bullying, harassment and homophobia
- Social isolation
- Mental and physical health
- Access to services and programs
Hosted by Jordan Raskopoulos - comedian, actor, singer and digital content creator, best known for her work as the front woman for comedy rock band The Axis of Awesome – Jordan came out as a transgender woman in In February 2016, at the age of 32.
She has since become a role model and outspoken voice for trans rights.
“If I had come out in 1994, at the age of 12, I would have been bullied, I would have had difficulty finding community, and I doubt I'd have had the understanding of those around me. I question whether I'd have had the mental fortitude to endure that situation,” Jordan said.
“And, while we have made enormous progress in the last 20 years, there are far too many people, particularly young people, who are still struggling to find pride in their identity. I am very excited to be a part of this evening. It's wonderful to see proactive discussion with the LGBTIQ community about our experiences and services and programs that the community needs,” Jordan said.
This is a free event and everyone, especially members of the LGBTIQ community, is invited to attend. There will be light refreshments and giveaways
RSVP on 9335 2143 or register on Eventbrite http://bit.ly/2uYFEhz
For an interview with Jordan Raskopoulos, or a print quality image, contact tom.helliwell@innerwest.nsw.gov.au