Balangaw Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 1

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Alyansa ng Kabataang Mindanao para sa Kapayapaan (AKMK)

BALANGAW NEWSLETTER

The Official Quarterly Publication of AKMK in partnership with VOICE

Volume 1 Issue 1

2023

𝗦𝗢𝗚𝗜𝗘𝗦𝗖 Training of Trainers

The AKMK together with Babaylanes, Inc. conducted a Training of Training on SOGIESC last July 28 - 29, 2023. The TOT aimed to train LGBTQI trainers from Iligan, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga Peninsula, Kalamansig, and Sultan Kudarat on SOGIESC and LGBTQI Rights. The activity aimed at building capacity of LGBT trainers through learning sessions and workshops on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity/Expression.

Stories of #KahilwayanPride2023 The #Kahilwayan2023 made my first Pride Month Parade. It was a life-changing experience. I'd always wanted to see a Pride march, and now the opportunity had arrived. I was immediately attracted by the lively and colorful atmosphere. Rainbow flags and banners adorned the streets, and everyone was dressed in brilliant colors. The energy was palpable, and I felt a sense of belonging I'd never felt before. Continue reading to page 2...

Illuminating the Colors of Mindanao LGBTQI+ As the vibrant colors of the Pride flag unfurl across the Philippines, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on the LGBTQI community in Mindanao. This diverse region, known for its cultural richness and religious diversity, has witnessed remarkable strides in the fight for equal rights and recognition. In the quest for social acceptance and legal protections, LGBTQI individuals have fervently advocated for the passage of the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill. This statement celebrates their tireless efforts and highlights the significance of their fight for a more inclusive and equitable society. The LGBTQI individuals in Mindanao have emerged as fearless advocates, organizing communities, dialogues, and awareness campaigns to generate support for gender justice. Community organizations, human rights activists, and allies have joined forces, tirelessly amplifying the voices of marginalized individuals and educating the public on the importance of equal rights. Their efforts have fostered a growing understanding of the struggles faced by the LGBTQI community and have mobilized a broader movement for change. Continue reading to page 5...

Global and local pushback against LGBTQI Rights Movement

I'm always motivated by such platforms as this webinar because it's a space to reflect, to reclaim our struggles. It is a starting point to strengthen our solidarity. I believe there no is border in our struggle. I want to share my thoughts on the imminent threat of global backlash on LGBTQI+ rights. The report's power over rights gives us a better understanding of how transnational movements are diminishing rights. How do we comprehend this pushback who maintain their narratives? This broader pushback doesn't only exist today but there are historical conditions that shape our current conditions. How is this pushback being felt in the global south? How do we collectively challenge these harmful norms, convictions narratives, grassroots and solidarity efforts? Continue reading to page 3...

LGBT Lives Matter!

About the Project The #LGBTILivesMatter: Accelerating Grassroots Tri-People LGBTQI Movement Towards Rights-claiming and Empowerment through #Artstory and #Artvocacy is a one-year empowerment accelerator project of Alyansa ng Kabataang Mindanao para sa Kapayapaan (AKMK) with the support of Voice Philippines. The project aims to accelerate the rights-claiming and empowerment of Tri-people LGBTQI members by surfacing their stories and narratives using multimedia creative arts and storytelling to achieve the following goals: (1) Accelerate the grassroots organizing and mobilization of active and non-active LGBTQI members to consolidate the formation of intersectional movements of LGBTQI; (2) Increase the visibility of participation of Moro and Indigenous Peoples LGBTQI in civic engagement and political processes in their respective communities; (3) Continuous engagements with champions from the local units, schools, private sectors, parents, tribal leaders and communities; (4) Sustain the collaboration with partner LGUs, BLGUs, CSO’s, Schools, and Communities; and (5) Equipped LGBTQI members with knowledge and skills on digital advocacy, campaign design and leadership management.

Content News & Feature AKMK conducted the first online session of the 2nd installment of LGBTQI Talks: LGBTQI Rights are Human Rights! Stories of #KahilwayanPride2023 LGBTQI Artvocacy and Artivism Workshop in Lanao del Norte Newsbitz AKMK participated in the ASEAN Civil Society Conference / People's Forum (ACSC/APF) in Jakarta, Indonesia AKMK conducted Art Workshop in Iligan dubbed “Surfacing LGBT+ Stories and Narratives through Art” Art Workshop in Kalamansig SOGIESC Training of Trainers Opinion Global and local pushback against LGBTQI Rights Movement Illuminating the Colors of Mindanao LGBT+

As part of their Empowerment project supported by Voice, the Alyansa ng Kabataang Mindanao para sa Kapayapaan compiled narratives from the people at the heart of their advocacy: the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer and intersex + community. These narratives created this wonderful e-magazine, which we hope to engage you in a reflective moment on how far their advocacy has gone and the continuing journey we can be meaningfully a part of. https://voice.global/publications/lgbtqi-stories/

BALANGAW The word “Balangaw” is rooted from the Bisayan languages which means “Rainbow”. The rainbow is commonly used in LGBTQIA+ as a symbol of diversity of identities and struggles in the community. Balangaw represents the colorful experiences and stories of LGBTQI+ people from different walks of life. Hence, Balangaw became the inspiration of one of the music production of LGBTQI+ from Iligan. Balangaw Newsletter is the official publication of AKMK in partnership with VOICE. The newsletter is a quarterly publication featuring activities and programs under the project. This issue, Balangaw, is a symbol of the artistry, skills, and dedication of the LGBTQIA+ people in reclaiming their rights and spaces in their own communities.

AKMK conducted the first online session of the 2nd installment of LGBTQI Talks: LGBTQI Rights are Human Rights! In the journey towards a more inclusive society, we must recognize the fundamental truth that LGBTQI rights are human rights. Every individual deserves equal rights and dignity, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. Historically, the LGBTQI community has faced discrimination and marginalization. Yet, brave activists and allies have been fighting tirelessly to secure their rights, paving the way for progress and social change. The struggle for LGBTQI rights challenges systemic oppression and fosters a more just world. By supporting LGBTQI rights, we uphold the values of fairness, respect, and human dignity for all. It is not just a moral imperative but also crucial for creating a harmonious and tolerant global community.

NEWS & FEATURE Stories of #KahilwayanPride2023 By Miller dela Serna

The #Kahilwayan2023 made my first Pride Month Parade. It was a life-changing experience. I'd always wanted to see a Pride march, and now the opportunity had arrived. I was immediately attracted by the lively and colorful atmosphere. Rainbow flags and banners adorned the streets, and everyone was dressed in brilliant colors. The energy was palpable, and I felt a sense of belonging I'd never felt before. As I made my way through the crowds and stamp my toe from Rotunda to Amphitheater I was overwhelmed by the love and acceptance that filled the air. People from all walks of life have come together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. I saw families with young children, couples holding hands, and groups of friends laughing and dancing. It was a beautiful sight to behold.

Photo from the online LGBTQI Talks as part of the second installment.

In continuing with this unwavering advocacy, AKMK organized the first online session of LGBTQI TALKS: A series of online sessions on the struggles and aspirations of LGBTQI members, titled "LGBTQI Rights is a Human Rights," on September 16, 2023, paving the way for meaningful learning and sharing about the importance of understanding LGBTQI rights and agenda as non-negotiable Human Rights. We thank our resource person, Rocky Rinabor from Amnesty International (AI) Philippines. Let's unite in creating safe spaces, breaking down prejudices, and building bridges of understanding. Together, we can celebrate love, empower each other, and foster an inclusive world where every individual's rights are protected and cherished. The LGBTQI Talks are a continuation of online hope-based story-telling of AKMK in support of Voice under the Empowerment Accelerated project: #LGBTILivesMatter: Accelerating Grassroots Tri-People LGBTI Movement Towards Rights-claiming and Empowerment through #Artstory and #Artvocacy, which seeks to bring to light the struggles and aspirations of grassroots tri-people LGBTI members from four communities to increase public understanding and support for the LGBTQI agenda and the #LGBTILivesMatter campaign.

As the parade began, I was moved by the passion and dedication of the participants. The floats were decorated with rainbow colors and symbols of the LGBTQI+ community. The music was loud, and people were dancing and singing along. I felt a sense of liberation and freedom that I had never felt before. What struck me the most was the sense of community and support. Everyone was there to celebrate and support each other, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I saw people of all ages, races, and backgrounds coming together to show their love and acceptance. Attending my first Pride parade was a transformative experience. It allowed me to witness the power and beauty of the LGBTQ+ community. It taught me the importance of #love, #acceptance, and #inclusion. It reminded me that we all deserve to be celebrated and respected for who we are. With these, my first Pride Month Parade was an incredible experience that left a lasting impression on me. It was a celebration of love, acceptance, and diversity that brought people from all walks of life together. It was a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and understanding. I cannot wait to attend my next Pride parade and continue to support the LGBTQI+ community. Miller dela Serna is a proud member of AKMK and TWG of Lanao del Norte under the Empowerment Project of AKMK and Voice Philippines.

Balangaw Newsletter | pg. 1

LGBTQI Artvocacy and Artivism Workshop in Lanao del Norte By Arcie Joy Lastimosa The arts offer a medium for expressing our emotions that may be difficult to articulate through words. The Alyansa ng Kabataan Mindanao para sa Kapayapaan, in partnership with Voice, conducted an Artvocacy Workshop for the LGBTQIA+ community last December 8-10, 2023 at Granaderous, Maigo, Lanao del Norte. This threeday workshop showcased the talent and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community, with 23 participants taking part in various artistic activities. The participants were introduced to vlogging and videography by Ace Jhun Lubang, who facilitated a project in which the participants were asked to create a short video comparing themselves to fruits to express their feelings. Through videography, they were able to communicate their emotions uniquely. Traditional painting was also featured, facilitated by Wristy Martija. The participants used painting to explore their imaginations and express their emotions and perceptions. Through their paintings, the LGBTQI+ community showcased the true meaning of the rainbow, creating seven visual arts paintings. Music and song composition, facilitated by Rhodel Durias Dinapo, allowed the participants to tell their stories and express their belief that, regardless of the opinions of others, they deserve to be treated with respect and equality in society.

NEWS & FEATURE The rainbow, they said, is a symbol of their beauty and strength as a community and they should not be subjected to discrimination. During the Solidarity Night, the participants showcased their artistry by wearing clothes they had created and expressing their feelings through their outfits. They also participated in games and had the opportunity to connect. The participants applied what they learned in the thematic workshop, and their output was showcased during Solidarity Night. The workshop covered SOGIESC, which helped the attendees gain a better understanding of what it means to be LGBTQIA+. The workshop emphasized the significance of supporting the SOGIE Equality Bill at the national level and organizing for LGBTQI rights in rural communities. It also highlighted the beauty and diversity of the rainbow community and stressed the ongoing struggle for genuine liberation.

Balangaw Newsletter | pg. 2

NEWSBITZ NEWSBITZ AKMK participated in the ASEAN Civil Society Conference / People's Forum (ACSC/APF) in Jakarta, Indonesia Expanding solidarity works is crucial among Southeast Asian activists and civil society movements amid emerging populist-authoritarian regimes, geopolitical tensions and attacks, and the decline of democratic spaces in the region.

NEWSBITZ Art Workshop in Kalamansig The AKMK launched an art workshop with the LGBTQIA+ of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.

The AKMK had the opportunity to participate in the ASEAN Civil Society Conference / People's Forum (ACSC/APF) in Jakarta, Indonesia last September 1-3, 2023. This forum allows us from various progressive formations in the region to reclaim spaces, strengthen alliance-building and borderless solidarity, and consolidate intersectional strategies to advance people's interests and agenda. It also highlights people-to-people and sector-to-sector exchanges of alternative experiences, stories, advocacy, and organizing works in each country. Having these discussions and dialogues allows us the chance to (re) imagine a region where an alternative and right-based society in the region is possible.

AKMK conducted Art Workshop in Iligan dubbed “Surfacing LGBTQI+ Stories and Narratives through Art” "𝘈𝘳𝘵, 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦, 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘮 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘐𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘷𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧. 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴. 𝘐'𝘮 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭, 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘧𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥. 𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘢 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦." - Marc Allen Lauron LGBTQI+ Artvocacy Workshop in Iligan explores different forms of art such as literary, music, and visual art.

𝗦𝗢𝗚𝗜𝗘𝗦𝗖 Training of Trainers The AKMK together with Babaylanes, Inc. conducted a Training of Training on SOGIESC last July 28 - 29, 2023. The TOT aimed to train LGBTQI trainers from Iligan, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga Peninsula, Kalamansig, and Sultan Kudarat on SOGIESC and LGBTQI Rights. The activity aimed at building capacity of LGBT trainers through learning sessions and workshops on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity/Expression.

Balangaw Newsletter | pg. 3

OPINION Global and local pushback against LGBTQI Rights Movement By Reemar Alonsagay I'm always motivated by such platforms as this webinar because it's a space to reflect, to reclaim our struggles. It is a starting point to strengthen our solidarity. I believe there no is border in our struggle. I want to share my thoughts on the imminent threat of global backlash on LGBTQI+ rights. The report's power over rights gives us a better understanding of how transnational movements are diminishing rights. How do we comprehend this pushback who maintain their narratives? This broader pushback doesn't only exist today but there are historical conditions that shape our current conditions. How is this pushback being felt in the global south? How do we collectively challenge these harmful norms, convictions narratives, grassroots and solidarity efforts? These push-backs are not new, it is just more organized, sophisticated, and deliberate. Over decades, right-wing movements got together to fight back against gender efforts and LGBTQI+ people. Many are right-wing organizations with diverse actors who spread information producing harmful narratives. Conservative politicians who espouse "gender ideology" want to gain political power. For example, in the Philippines, right-wing politicians are gaining credibility because of their stance against abortion, and LGBTQI+ rights. The global fight for abortion and LGBT+ rights challenges patriarchal norms. The nuclear family is to preserve hetero-normative norms. It maintains and reinforces social and class relations. This form of family is under this traditional order which (re)produces heterosexual norms and oppresses everyone who deviates. LGBTQI+ people are then invisible as long as heterosexuality remains the norm. It contributes to the hostile climate. In our local context, there is a shrinking of political spaces. Activists and centers are defamed as terrorists. Despite the parade of domestic and international legal instruments that recognize LGBTQI+ rights, there are still hate crimes across the country. In Poland and Hungary, anti-LGBTQI+ sentiments are stoked to preserve the traditional family. In Hungary, the prime minister said it is worse than communism. In Russia and other Eastern Europe, governments present themselves as champions of traditional values and oppose LGBTQI+ rights. In the Philippines, legal protection is nowhere to be found. Still, there is deliberate action from right-wing and conservative actors. These patriarchal norms are embedded in Filipino values and culture. LGBTQI+ rights are rendered invisible. One gay person was banned from cross-dressing in public. A lesbian was not allowed to cut her hair. There were a lot of hate crimes during the COVID-19 pandemic and there is a climate of fear among us. These multi-layers of suffering are hostile. We can see significant milestones in the Philippines for LGBTQI+ rights. We see a concentration of movements in metropolitan and urban cities. We have a PRIDE march in Manilla but it is only middleclass and liberal people which creates internal divisions. It isolates and alienates LGBTQI+ people in rural areas. In our journey to building inclusive and just communities, where gender no longer has economic and legal consequences, we need to retain our small gains by intersectionality, expanding grassroots organizing, and local and international solidarity. We need to fight common enemies and reactionary religious groups and their leaders, together with other marginalized communities, and connect with indigenous groups, youth groups, etc. We need to strengthen international solidarity, the local struggle of LGBTQI+ is not isolated from the international picture, especially in countries where LGBTQI+ are repressed. We need allies. There is some grassroots organizing in rural communities but we need to expand this organizing. We need to establish support from local politicians to identify local champions. I believe that our fight is beyond just legal protection, we need to mobilize more LGBTQI+ communities, especially in rural areas, and create innovative strategies e.g. art advocacy as we do through the Voice program or multimedia arts. We need to reach outside the bubble, reach hard-to-reach LGBTQIA+ groups outside of the liberal middle class, and be present in different platforms and spaces. Excerpt notes from the #IDAHOBIT 2023 Webinar organized by OXFAM Novib.

Balangaw Newsletter | pg. 4

OPINION Illuminating the Colors of Mindanao LGBT+ By CJ Belmores As the vibrant colors of the Pride flag unfurl across the Philippines, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on the LGBTQI community in Mindanao. This diverse region, known for its cultural richness and religious diversity, has witnessed remarkable strides in the fight for equal rights and recognition. In the quest for social acceptance and legal protections, LGBTQI individuals have fervently advocated for the passage of the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill. This statement celebrates their tireless efforts and highlights the significance of their fight for a more inclusive and equitable society. The LGBTQI individuals in Mindanao have emerged as fearless advocates, organizing communities, dialogues, and awareness campaigns to generate support for gender justice. Community organizations, human rights activists, and allies have joined forces, tirelessly amplifying the voices of marginalized individuals and educating the public on the importance of equal rights. Their efforts have fostered a growing understanding of the struggles faced by the LGBTQI community and have mobilized a broader movement for change. Mindanao's diverse cultural landscape has provided an opportunity for dialogue and understanding, enabling the LGBTQI community to bridge gaps and find common ground with various religious and cultural groups. Interfaith dialogues, cultural exchanges, and inclusive educational initiatives have played crucial roles in challenging prejudices and fostering acceptance. Through courageous conversations, LGBTQI individuals in Mindanao have highlighted the importance of recognizing that sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression are integral facets of human diversity and should be celebrated, not stigmatized. As we celebrate Pride, let us stand in solidarity with the LGBTQI community in Mindanao and acknowledge their relentless pursuit of equality. The fight for the passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill embodies our unwavering commitment to building a society that embraces diversity, respects individual identities, and guarantees the full inclusion and protection of all citizens. By recognizing their struggles and triumphs, we contribute to a larger narrative of progress and create a path toward a more inclusive and accepting Philippines. Together, let us continue to champion LGBTQI rights and celebrate the remarkable resilience of the LGBTQI community in Mindanao. Happy Pride!

Balangaw Newsletter | pg. 5