Iraq’s LGBT+ community still experiences severe prejudice and violence. Nevertheless, groups like Rasan and IraQueer are working relentlessly to promote acceptance and lessen societal stigma through activities to raise awareness and conduct education.
These organizations have put in place numerous projects to increase public awareness and educate the general public about the rights and experiences of the LGBT+ community because they understand the value of education as a potent weapon in the struggle for human rights and equality.
To strive to break down the stigma against accepting LGBT+ persons, Rasan, for instance, undertakes educational and awareness programs for young people in Kurdish community. In an effort to shift public opinion in favor of a more tolerant mentality, the organization’s Art for All initiative, for instance, involves painting murals on public walls that portray the concerns of the LGBT+ population in Kurdistan. The Give a Hand initiative, which was started at the same time, aims to develop new queer-friendly vocabulary while also conducting research on the needs of the LGBT+ community.
Rasan’s work has had difficulties, nevertheless. On February 22, 2021, it was revealed that a lawsuit had been brought against the organization by a Kurdistan Justice Group (formerly Kurdistan Islamic Group) MP because they supported LGBT+ rights, which they said went “against the ideals of the Kurdish culture.”
To raise awareness among and about LGBT+ Iraqis, IraQueer also creates written and visual resources in Arabic, Kurdish, and English. In order to progress the LGBT+ cause, the organization also offers trainings and workshops to pertinent stakeholders. Examples of projects falling under this heading include a security manual for LGBT+ Iraqis to increase their online and offline safety, a sexual health manual to raise LGBT+ Iraqis’ awareness of their sexual and reproductive health, and a legal manual outlining the country’s protective and anti-LGBT+ laws. Additionally, IraQueer hosts a biweekly radio program that explores many facets of what it means to be LGBT+ in Iraq.
Organizations like Rasan and IraQueer are aiming to lessen societal stigma and foster acceptance by disseminating truthful and inclusive information about the LGBT community. Education has the ability to transform hearts and minds. No matter a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, education may help us build a more accepting and equal society where everyone is treated with respect and decency.
It is necessary to remember that in addition to education, LGBT+ rights-protecting laws and regulations, as well as the work of activists, allies, and organizations on the ground, are essential to bringing about genuine change. In order to build a more inclusive and just society for everyone, our society must continue to support and work with groups like Rasan and IraQueer.
