Democracy Classroom: SOGIESC Equality is a new initiative aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in classrooms across Southeast Asia. The project, launched by the independent media organization New Naratif, focuses on the rights of individuals with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, expressions, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Through educational resources and community outreach programs, Democracy Classroom aims to empower educators to create safe and accepting learning environments for all students. In this article, we will explore the importance of SOGIESC equality in the classroom, and how Democracy Classroom is working towards a more equitable education system.
The LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines has been fighting for their rights and equality for more than seven years. Despite the long-standing struggle, they continue to face issues such as harassment and discrimination. In an effort to understand the challenges faced by the community, New Naratif’s Democracy Classrooms will be holding a discussion on the SOGIE Equality Bill, which was filed seven years ago.
Journalist Mavic Conde will be speaking at the event, shedding light on the struggles faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines. The discussion will cover how the community can fight for their safety, rights, and equality. Additionally, it will explore how a more equal and inclusive Philippines would look like.
New Naratif’s Democracy Classrooms provides a safe space for the community to come together and practice democracy. Through this discussion, members of the community will have an opportunity to articulate their thoughts and engage in meaningful dialogue.
The LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines has been fighting for their rights for many years, and the struggle has not been easy. Despite facing numerous challenges, including legal, social, and economic obstacles, they have persisted in their quest for equality. The SOGIE Equality Bill is an important piece of legislation that seeks to protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ Filipinos. However, the bill has yet to be fully implemented and enforced.
This discussion is an opportunity for individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines. Through this conversation, attendees can explore how they can support the community’s fight for their rights and equality.
As a Filipino environmental journalist, Mavic Conde has extensive experience in covering environmental issues in the Philippines. Her work has been published in Bulatlat, Mongabay, and Rappler. She has also received an Earth Journalism Writing Grant and has participated in several fellowships.
In addition to the discussion, New Naratif’s website offers a plethora of resources for individuals who are interested in learning more about LGBTQIA+ rights and the environment. Their Queer Ecology series contains eight works of Flash Fiction that explore the intersectionality of SOGIESC and ecological justice.
The event requires a minimum donation of US$5, and attendees will receive a month’s New Naratif membership. Existing members can attend the event for free. Joining as a member of New Naratif is an excellent way to stay informed about important social issues in Southeast Asia and support independent media.
Overall, this discussion is an opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines and explore ways to support their fight for their rights and equality. By providing a safe space for individuals to practice democracy, New Naratif’s Democracy Classrooms serves as a valuable resource for building a more inclusive and equitable society.
