As part of our ongoing support of the LGBTIQA+ Community, VACCA is hosting a series of Rainbow Yarning Workshops throughout October. The workshops are a place for members of the LGBTIQA+ community from both staff and the wider VACCA community to come together in a culturally safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.
The first workshop, held on October 1st, was a huge success; attendees were greeted with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country from Aunty Annette Xiberras, Elder and Co-chair of the Victorian Traditional Owners Land Justice Group.
The attendees discussed ‘Coming out’ and the profound impact it has on their lives. In addition, they explored Queer Identities in the History of Aboriginal Culture and went through a presentation from Queer Archives Victoria. Writer and filmmaker Tarneen Onus-Williams also made an appearance as a guest speaker, talking about supporting wellbeing and preventing burn out when acting in an advocacy role.
The next Workshop will be held on Saturday October 15th at Collingwood Children's Farm and will explore the topic of fluidity in identity. Joining the group as a guest speaker is Ricki Spencer (a First Nations, LGBTIQA+ and Disability advocate) and Matika Little (founder of ‘Coming Out Blak’ Podcast and Advocate for Indigenous Queer Mob).
The final workshop will be held on Saturday October 29th at the Victorian Pride Centre, we're very excited to have Todd Fernando (Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities) as a guest speaker, discussing what to do when experiencing discrimination.
Registrations are coming in fast so if you're interested in joining the last two workshops, express your interest here.