Article
The Queer Political Forum is an organization that provides workshops, panel discussions and other events, with the mission of amplifying voices of LGBTQ+ activists and combating anti-trans politics. These events are currently hybrid, often taking place in Berlin and Wuppertal.
In the last federal election in Germany, it became more evident that queer citizens hold significant political influence. A study from the University of Giessen revealed that LGBTIQ* voters have a clear preference for Bündnis 90/Die Grünen. Significant changes are also noticeable in comparison to the last federal election, showing the support for the Greens increased by 23% among the queer community. In spring 2023, the government initiated the “Federal Action Plan for the Acceptance and Protection of Gender and Sexual Diversity,” inviting 78 queer initiatives and associations to provide counsel on matters affecting queer life. While these initiatives mark progress, the participatory structures remain insufficiently inclusive and diverse.
Project Development
Being personally and politically affected by any initiatives towards the queer community, Samu/elle Striewski and Judith Gabler noticed the lack of movement towards supporting the queer community, which led to creating the Queer Political Forum (registered in Germany as a Verein), addressing their discontent towards queer and trans rights. Establishing their own non-profit organization, Samu/elle Striewski and Judith Gabler were able to develop their own intra-queer politico-pedagogical platform, where they can discuss and empower during this current political climate. They soon hope to engage further in an intersectional approach to queer activism and lobby for queer rights.
As of now, Queer Political Forum has been able to develop workshops led by their members and are actively aiming to provide funds to pay for expenses for future speakers and renting venues. With around 10 members of their team, QPF is continuously growing, expecting to gain engagement from all over the world. While challenges do tend to arise, Samu/elle and Judith are looking forward to the future of their platform, and would be happy to hear from any interested parties wanting to get involved.
