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Limburg Pride connects: strengthening local LGBTQI+ policy in Flanders

by Timothy••0

On Thursday 2 April, a conference for cities and municipalities took place in Genk, focusing on how local authorities, experts and civil society organisations can work together to build stronger, more inclusive and forward-looking local LGBTQI+ policies, GayLive reports. 

The conference, titled ‘Limburg connects: challenges and solutions in local LGBTQI+ policy‘, was organised by Limburg Pride, çavaria, Unia, the City of Genk and the Association of Flemish Cities and Municipalities (VVSG).

Although the emancipation of LGBTQIA+ people has made significant progress over recent decades, the role of local authorities remains crucial. Cities and municipalities play a key part in shaping how safe and welcome people feel in their immediate environment. The conference aimed to inspire and equip local governments with practical tools, insights and real-world examples.

From federal policy to local practice

The programme opened with a keynote by federal minister Rob Beenders (Vooruit) who translated federal equal opportunities policy into a local context. He addressed current challenges such as polarisation, the underreporting of discrimination and rising levels of violence, while emphasising the importance of local support and collaboration.

Paul Borghs then offered a historical and societal perspective on LGBTQI+ emancipation in Flanders, outlining the role local authorities have played – and continue to play – in this process.

Dialogue between community and society

Two panel discussions created space for dialogue between the LGBTQI+ community and wider society. Moderated by Yves Aerts (çavaria), activists, researchers, policymakers and practitioners shared their experiences and insights.

From insights to action

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to practical action. Through interactive workshops, participants were given concrete tools on topics such as reporting mechanisms for discrimination, participatory policymaking, inclusive events and support from Unia. The City of Genk concluded the day with a case study on its own rainbow policy and its evolution towards becoming a more inclusive city.

A boost for local LGBTQI+ policy

The conference was aimed at mayors, aldermen, policy officers, civil servants and organisations working in the fields of wellbeing, diversity and equal opportunities. With this initiative, Limburg Pride seeks to give a strong boost to local LGBTQI+ policy in Flanders.

The latest on LGBTQIA+ events such as prides in Belgium

🇧🇪 Blogger, keen vexillologist, train conductor NMBS/SNCB, traveller, F1 follower, friend of Dorothy.

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