Celebrating Queer South Asian Communities
Hi, I’m Sadia from the PrEP4Teens team! I’ve been on the team as a Youth Leader since the beginning, contributing to projects like murals, website content, and the research with teens and stakeholders that the campaign is built on!
I remember craving spaces where I could be accepted wholly. It was difficult for me to find communities where I didn’t feel like I was straddling between two identities, neither one fully capturing my experience. I needed to find people who could understand the unique challenges of navigating queerness as a South Asian.
Meeting others in college who shared my experiences and could learn with me about the unique history of LGBTQIA+ people in the South Asian diaspora enveloped me in a special type of security and warmth that I had never felt before. Those connections led me to embrace my culture and my identity more deeply than I ever had before. I’d like to help showcase some of the amazing queer South Asian community organizations that offer spaces to connect, share stories, and celebrate.
Here’s a list of some of the organizations looking to do just that:
Trikone Chicago is a not-for-profit organization for queer South Asians and their allies, aiming to promote awareness, visibility, and acceptance of different sexual orientations and gender identities. One of the ways to feel that awareness and visibility is by engaging in community as your authentic self.
The organization offers several opportunities to make lasting connections at cultural events, film festivals, awareness campaigns, and pride celebrations. An event unique to Trikone Chicago is Jai Ho, a queer South Asian dance party. Their future goals include greater political activism, outreach to increase membership, and encouraging active leadership roles. Despite the cultural challenges, Trikone Chicago creates a safe space for members to learn, connect, grow, and thrive.
Invisible to Invincible (i2i) is a Chicago-based organization that celebrates and supports LGBTQIA+ Asians and Pacific Islanders. Although not specifically centered on South Asians, i2i has created affirming spaces for queer people, promoted immigrant and refugee justice, and advocated for racial and reproductive justice since 2005. They host educational programs, support groups, and social events such as potlucks and campaign-related activities. i2i collaborates with initiatives like No Cop Academy and March to End Detention i2i seeks visibility in API and LGBTQ+ spaces for empowerment and joy.
South Asia Institute (SAI) Chicago is located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Cullerton Street in the Prairie District. After being founded in 2015, it officially opened its doors in 2019. South Asia Institute believes that understanding our historical art and culture can modify the lenses by which we view the present. They aim to honor heritage by allowing it to shape the future. SAI is dedicated to elevating South Asians by hosting exhibitions, artistic programs, and educational projects.
During pride month, they host Satrangi, a Desi queer open mic for people to share stories, perform drag, sing, and dance. Another project that they started during pride month and continue to sustain is the “People Who Came Before Us” program. The program highlights the significant contributions of LGBTQIA+ South Asians to the city of Chicago and local activism. Ultimately, they hope to showcase the extensive influence of South Asian culture.
Learn more about Sadia’s involvement with PrEP4Teens here.