The Open Minds Project [English Version]

LGBTQ+ people are excluded or erased from mainstream Punjabi culture. There is a culture of shame, secrecy and taboo about sex and sexuality and mental illness. Often we’re not encouraged to talk about these things with our families and this can lead to loneliness, isolation and mental ill-health.

The Open Minds Project was started to help Punjabi LGBTQ+ people connect with each other, celebrate their Punjabiness and to support them in claiming their space in Punjabi cultures.

The Open Minds Project started as a monthly face to face group based in London and developed into a supportive place for people to talk about their lives as Punjabi LGTBQ+ people with people that could relate to their experience.

We talked about issues related to faith and sexuality, challenging shame and stigma, and learnt from each other’s stories.

Punjabi LGBTQ+ people are diverse, brave and wonderful people who should not be ashamed of who they are. They have a right to live their lives free of fear or stigma.

The Open Minds Project will provide ways for Punjabi LGBTQ+ people to connect with each other, think about their place in Punjabi cultures and to celebrate their strength and resilience.

The Open Minds Project