March is dedicated to Queer History Month. The municipality of The Hague is participating and, together with (queer) organizations and the Central Library, is organizing various queer activities throughout the month. The versatile program includes lectures, workshops, city walks and speed dating.
This year, Queer History Month is taking place for the fifth time and is a moment to reflect on the stories, struggles and successes of the queer community.
Participation in the activities in The Hague is completely free, but registration is required.
For more information and the entire program (in Dutch), see: www.queergeschiedenismaand.nl
Making queer history visible
The fifth edition of Queer History Month offers a moment to commemorate and celebrate the stories, struggles and victories of the queer community. For a long time, these stories remained untold or were omitted from history. By making queer history visible, not only is the past acknowledged, but also contributes to a future in which everyone can be themselves. The month is dedicated to reflecting on the struggle for equal rights and the impact of (Hague) Queer Difference Makers, with the aim of raising awareness and promoting an inclusive society in which equality, authenticity and respect are central.
Alderman Mariëlle Vavier (Poverty, Inclusion, Care and International Affairs) emphasizes the importance of this month, she says : “The Queer History Month in The Hague offers a platform to the queer community. By learning from the past and reflecting on the reality of today, we are building a city together where everyone can be themselves – without fear, without exclusion. In these times, when the right to exist of queer people is under pressure worldwide, it is important to speak out and defend acquired rights. So join in, listen, and make your voice heard. Because history is not only remembered, but also shaped by our actions today.”
English translations of Dutch language events
Please note that below are English translations of Dutch language events – see the website above for the original Dutch text, and contact organisers if you’d like more information, including about participation for non-Dutch speakers.
Lecture ‘Transgender in the Netherlands. An extraordinary history.’ March 2, 12:30 pm – Central Library (Podium B, 5th floor)
Historian Alex Bakker sheds light on the changing image of trans people in the Netherlands. In an interactive lecture, he talks about the hostile medical practices in the 1950s and 1960s to the recognition and emancipation of today. Tarim Flach will moderate.
Queer Pub Quiz. March 6, 7:30 PM – COC Haaglanden; Scheveningseveer 7
During this pub quiz, organized by Beeld & Geluid, knowledge of queer representation in the Dutch media is tested. From Pink Saturday and the first gay marriage on TV to In de Vlaamse Pot and Pride in the province: how visible was and is the community? An evening full of humor, surprises and historical fragments, presented by culture vlogger Marco Dreijer and co-host Stevie Stunner.
Power Women Talkshow . March 13, 6:30 PM – Central Library (Podium B, 5th floor)
Three inspiring queer women share their experiences and fight for equality: Magda Römgens (pink seniors), Ligya Wachter (LGBTIQ people of color) and Remke Verdegem (trans rights). Together with author Eveline van de Putte they discuss lessons from the past, challenges of today and their message for the future. In between the conversations Sacha Celine Verheij recites two spoken-word pieces. Participants are welcomed with a cup of soup.
Queer City Walk . March 16, 12:00 and March 29, 15:00 – meet in front of the Mauritshuis
During this walk, the queer past of The Hague is explored, from secret meeting places to the fight for LGBTIQ+ rights. The city’s role in queer activism and emancipation is discussed and personal experiences can be exchanged with other participants. Organized by Queer Mind, International Homomonument, SPINT and Oscar Oonk.
Lecture ‘The Netherlands belongs to the Dutch.’ March 20, 7:30 PM – The Social Hub
This evening explores the question of how to create a more inclusive Netherlands, with writer and journalist Mounir Samuel as moderator. His insights are interspersed with musical contributions by Dwight Dissels, a theatre performance by Flunknarf and a drag performance by Envy Peru. A special encounter between art, dialogue and social themes.
The Hague Black Women & Queer History Then and Now . March 27, 6:30 PM – The Hangout 070
Dive into the history of black queer women’s groups in The Hague, who created space for connection, strength and solidarity over the years. The evening includes a panel discussion, moderated by Nicchelle Buyne, in which Lygia Wachter and Demi Vreden reflect on the impact of these groups and the lasting influence they had. Poetry and spoken word by Demi Vreden and Nicchelle Buyne bring the power of these stories to life. Organized by LGBTQHumans of Films.
Participation is free, but registration is required. This can be done via email lgbtqhumansofamsterdam@gmail.com .
Transketeers: ‘Main Character Energy.’ March 30, 12:30 pm – Central Library (Podium B, 5th floor)
Much is written about trans people, but what happens when the stories themselves are taken back? Chris Rijksen and Jonah Lamers of De Transketeers show how storytelling can empower. They take participants along courageous predecessors and help discover how everyone can be the main character in his or her own story. With playful exercises around archetypes, participants learn how to write their own hero story.