Join us for an eye-opening evening of stories, resilience, and community care. Iranian & Bangladeshi Queer Lives Under Criminalisation brings together two leading voices from criminalised LGBTQ+ communities to reflect on identity, activism, and survival in the face of systemic oppression. An inspiring and urgent conversation not to be missed.
Programme
5:00–5:30 PM: Welcome & Introduction
5:30–6:00 PM: “Iranian & Bangladeshi Queer Lives Under Criminalisation" discussion by Mazharul Islam and Mazyar Shirali
6:00–6:30 PM: Q&A Session
6:30–6:45 PM: Networking & Socialising
Speakers
Mazharul Islam
Mazharul is a Bangladeshi LGBTQIA+ activist and artist. He is the Founder and Chair of The Rainbow Tree, an organisation supporting South Asian queer communities through advocacy, cultural programming, and asylum support. His work has been featured in UK Vogue, Gay Times, ITV, and Queer Footprints. He was awarded the Attitude Pride Award in 2018.
www.therainbowtreecommunity.com
Mazyar Shirali
Mazyar is the founder of the Persian LGBT Organisation, a grassroots, donation-based group empowering Iranian and Persian LGBTQ+ individuals since 2009. Through inclusive ministry, monthly UK meet-ups, asylum support, and rights-based education, the organisation fosters dignity, self-esteem, and social integration. Their motto: “Unity is our strength.”
www.persianlgbt.org
We warmly thank the Councillors of West End and St James’s for awarding us Ward Budget funding, which fully covers the costs of this Westminster Creative Social. Their support helps us keep the event free and accessible to everyone. Thanks to a generous grant for the event, we’re delighted to offer a small buffet and drinks for everyone to enjoy. And at the end of each event, Forum members are welcome to take home a foodie bag — nothing goes to waste, and it’s our way of saying thank you for being part of the community!
Join us to hear these compelling stories, challenge the prevailing narratives, and engage in meaningful discussion. Enjoy wine, snacks, and refreshments throughout the evening as you listen, learn, and connect with lovely people in a welcoming space. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate our history and be part of the conversation!
Lorenzo Belenguer is the Westminster Creative Social founder and curator for the Westminster LGBT+ Forum.
We also keep spaces for Forum members who can attend at the last minute. Also you can RSVP to wlgbtcf@gmail.com if you prefer rather than using the Outsavvy booking system.
#QueerResistance #LGBTQAsylum #QueerVoices #CriminalisedButProud #IranianLGBTQ #BangladeshiQueerLives
Support Our Event: If you’d like to help sustain the wider work of the Westminster LGBT+ Forum, including our core running costs and future community initiatives, we would still be very grateful for your donation. Every contribution strengthens our ability to create safe, inclusive spaces and amplify LGBTQ+ voices. Support our work by donating via our SumUp/Card link, or email wlgbtcf@gmail.com for bank transfer details.
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Access: From the street, wheelchair users should be aware there is a downward gradient that leads to a level entrance. The event will take place in the ground floor. There is level access to an accessible toilet.
Westminster City Archives are located on 10 St Ann's Street, London SW1P 2DE between Morrison Court on 12 St Ann’s Street and behind Abbey Community Centre on Great Smith Street. The entrance to the archives is to the right of Morrison Court and then down a short pathway on the left. Please note there is no access to the archives from Great Smith Street. The what 3 words locations is ///tender.fault.ticket. If you are experiencing difficulties finding us please call Westminster Archives on 020 7641 5180.
Acknowledgments: A huge thank you to our supporters and collaborators; this event wouldn't be possible without you.
