September Gatherings in Our Community

In September, our community center hosted a series of meetings and activities providing opportunities for members of the LGBTQI+ community to come together, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions.

The first event focused on measures to prevent domestic violence. During this session, a community member courageously shared their personal story, describing the threats they had faced and the challenges they encountered while escaping a harmful environment. The individual’s narrative highlighted the resilience and strength that can emerge even in the most difficult circumstances. Following this powerful testimony, participants discussed strategies to recognize early signs of abuse, access support services, and think about personal safety plans. The session aimed not only to provide practical knowledge but also to foster a sense of empowerment and motivation among participants. A total of 10 LGBTQI+ community members attended this meeting, engaging in a supportive dialogue that encouraged sharing experiences, offering advice, and finding collective strength in facing adversity.

Later in the month, the community center hosted a book reading and discussion session. The group explored "Sovereignty As a Structure of Feeling: The Homosexual within Post-Cold War Armenian Geopolitics", a thought-provoking text examining the intersection of sexual identity and political contexts in Armenia. During this meeting, 9 LGBTQI+ participants engaged in a dynamic conversation about the themes of sovereignty, identity, and belonging. Members reflected on how historical and contemporary political structures influence the experiences of LGBTQI+ individuals and discussed the broader social implications of these dynamics. The discussion was interactive and thoughtful, offering participants an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the complex relationship between personal identity and societal frameworks. This session highlighted the community center’s commitment to fostering intellectual engagement and critical reflection among its members.

The month concluded with a celebration of Bisexual Visibility Day, an event designed to honor bisexual individuals and promote awareness of their experiences. 12 LGBTQI+ community members participated in this gathering, which included a screening of the film "The Half of It". The screening served as both an entertainment and educational opportunity, providing a space for participants to reflect on themes of identity, acceptance, and personal growth depicted in the film. Following the screening, attendees shared their thoughts and personal reflections, contributing to a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The event not only celebrated bisexual visibility but also reinforced the importance of creating safe spaces for open dialogue, community support, and representation.

Overall, our activities successfully combined education, personal storytelling, and cultural engagement.