L’initiative Mawjoudin pour L’égalité was founded in 2014 by a group of young activists, feminists and LGBs. Mawjoudin works together with other groups, to advocate the rights of the LGBTIQ community.
In Tunisia, both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal and being LGBTIQ is still considered a mental disorder. This results in many LGBTIQ people hiding their true sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. The overall attitude towards non-conforming people leads to high degrees of self-denial and self-hatred amongst teenagers, youngsters and adults.
With PlanetRomeo Foundation funding, Mawjoudin has set up a multifunctional cultural space, where various activities are being organized, like workshops, trainings and cultural events. As this is the first space of its kind in Tunis, it quickly has become a haven for LGBTIQ persons and contributed to the further creation of a queer community in Tunis and their capacity building.
We are proud that people feel at home in the space, and they call it “Darna” (“Our Home” in Tunisian).”
Mawjoudin
Project results
A multifunctional social space has been set up, which is visited by 10 to 15 persons on a daily basis. Here, they can be themselves, talk and exchange ideas and thoughts in a supportive environment. Also, the space provides place for the following:
- The provision of medical, psychological and social support as well as peer to peer counseling for LGBTIQ persons in need.
- At least 3 workshops per month, each with different themes.
- Monthly debates on topics such as gender, sex and feminism.
- Cultural events like bi-monthly film screenings, debates and a music club.
- A queer literature library.
- Office space for Mawjoudin staff members, partner organizations and self-employed LGBTQI people.
