The Importance of Safer Spaces

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Open Minds Group Nov 2021 - The Importance of Safer Spaces

As LGBTQ+ people, we can often find it hard to find spaces where we truly feel safe. Where we can be our true selves without hesitation or fear of judgement. Finding those spaces where we can is not always easy. South Asian cultures are not always accepting of us and being South Asian in an LGBTQ+ space can also present its own challenges.

At the November Open Minds meeting we took some time to reflect on these challenges and how we can overcome some of them. It was great to have so many new faces join from around the world and share a different perspective.

We talked about the contradiction of spaces such as a gurdwara being safe but questioned whether they would be if we were to show up as our true selves. Similarly, LGBTQ+ spaces which we may turn to for comfort can sometimes be unwelcoming as a result of racial prejudice.

Some people shared that they were not able to find that safe space amongst close family either which can leave you feeling isolated and lonely.

Some in the Group referred to friends as their chosen family amongst whom they have found that safe space describing it as an environment where they do not have to filter themselves at all. Others spoke about just having one person as being enough for them given the issues around safety in some parts of the world outside of the UK. Some people shared how social media has provided a space where they are able to be themselves by simply commenting on posts which they relate to and making remote connections with others has been helpful in allowing them to express themselves freely.

One thing which came out of the discussion was a recognition that what we define as a safe space has certainly changed over time and this is something that will continue to evolve but will always be something that is personal to each of us.

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We meet on the last Wednesday of each month and if you want to join us at an Open Minds Meeting, please visit the Events page on our website.

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