GayIceland chats with queer women and non-binary people group Vera about about safe spaces and upcoming events.
Queer people often face unique challenges when it comes to finding a sense of belonging. This is especially true in environments where they may not feel accepted or supported, such as schools and workplaces. A sense of belonging is incredibly important for LGBTQ+ people, as it can help them to feel more secure and confident in their identity, while also providing them with a support system of like-minded individuals. Research has shown that having a sense of belonging can lead to increased self-esteem, improved mental health, and even better academic and job performance and these stats are particularly notable for those in the rainbow community. It is therefore essential that we create safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people to foster this sense of belonging.
A few years ago some Iceland locals (Ingibjörg Ruth Gulin and Ástrós Erla) decided that it was very important to foster and develop events geared at queer women and non-binary people. The group, called ‘Vera’ plans and hosts events around the city of Reykjavík to help create spaces for queer women and non-binary people to connect, have fun and most importantly feel like they belong.
Vera took a little break in the past few months but they’re back and ready to get some events happening, and with the long days of Icelandic summer approaching, it couldn’t be at a better time. GayIceland recently had a chat with some of the current members of Vera’s organisational committee; Casey Dokoupil, Ástrós Erla and Madeleine Boucher to find out what’s been happening, what changes they’ve been making and, most importantly, what Vera fans and future fans can look forward to.
GayIceland: “It’s great to see Vera again! Have there been any changes since the last event?”
Ástrós: “Since our first event in 2019, we have really evolved as an organisation! In the past, we have gone by Queer Ladies’ Night, but as we expand to include more branches of the queer family, we are now using the name Vera. This word, as a noun, means “a being”, something we can all identify with.
As we start up again post-COVID, we’re being intentional about inclusion and representation. The board is a diverse body of people from different nations, backgrounds, and identities, and we are aiming to reflect that philosophy through the conscious celebration of queer women and non-binary people in our events; especially parts of the community that haven’t always experienced a feeling of being explicitly welcomed.”
GayIceland: “What’s coming up in the future for Vera? What events should people look out for?”
Casey: “We’re so glad you asked! Our next event is coming up on May 29. We’re hosting a casual walk and picnic at Öskjuhlíð for queer women and non-binary people as a way for us to introduce ourselves in a cosy setting and get to know each other.
Keep an eye out for lots of other events we’re excited to announce soon!”
“Since our first event in 2019, we have really evolved as an organisation! In the past, we have gone by Queer Ladies’ Night, but as we expand to include more branches of the queer family, we are now using the name Vera.”
GayIceland: “Are there any special events you can hint at in the future?”
Madeleine: “Well, we can give you a bit of a sneak peek. Vera is turning 4 this year, and we’re having a birthday celebration in June! August is Pride season in Reykjavik, and we will of course be celebrating with a pride walk among our peers and community. And so much more is to come; art, active events from yoga to sport, discussion groups, movie nights, parties… and lots more.”
GayIceland: “Tell us a bit about why groups like this are so important?”
Ástrós: “All people deserve validation, safety, and belonging, but those experiences are not always built into the lived realities of minority people. Groups like Vera not only make them more available, they expand them into chosen families made up of people with shared experiences.
In these spaces we are uniquely able to see and hear each other, raising a louder voice together than we could ever accomplish alone. We can affirm ourselves, and assert our value to the greater community, which benefits from our presence, perspective, and abilities.”
GayIceland: “For those who haven’t ever been to a Vera event, what can they expect?”
Casey: “They can expect to be warmly welcomed, of course! At a Vera event, folks can expect to feel that they belong – because they do! Our goal is to centre queer female and non-binary voices through a wide range of fun events to suit all kinds of interests, always focusing on meeting new friends, networking, and influencing our community with joy.”
GayIceland: “These events sound like fun but If someone is thinking of coming to a Vera event and is a bit nervous, what would you tell them?”
“At a Vera event, folks can expect to feel that they belong – because they do! Our goal is to centre queer female and non-binary voices through a wide range of fun events to suit all kinds of interests.”
Madeleine: “Feeling nervous when trying something new is totally normal! Each of us had a first time, too, and felt the same nerves anyone else might.
Even before you walk in the door, you have something in common with everyone else. You’ll find that a variety of languages are spoken within the Vera space, too, which can help people to feel more comfortable no matter where they come from.
Adults of all ages are welcome, and some of our events are great for youth or people with kids or pets in tow, as well. If you’re nervous, we get it. But remember – you belong here. If people are feeling really nervous they can definitely reach out to the Vera team via Facebook or Instagram and we can show them a bit of extra support and be there for them during their first event.”
GayIceland: “Is there anything else you would like people to know about Vera like how can they stay up to date with all the events in the future?”
Ástrós: “The best way to stay in the loop is to follow us on Instagram (@hinseginvera), but you can also find us on facebook. We’ll be sure to keep you up to date on the latest events, issues, and conversations.
Speaking of, we are on the hunt for a new logo! If you’re an artist, graphic designer, or other creative interested in collaborating with us in designing a logo, we want to hear from you! We honour art and artists, of course, and are looking to compensate a logo partner. Message us on Insta if that might be you!”
Vera’s next event is a walk and picnic to kick off their first event of the year. The walk will be through the Öskjuhlíð forest near Perlan, followed by a picnic at Nauthólsvík. Dogs on a leash are welcome!
Date: Monday May 29th
Time: The walk will begin at 14:00. If you would like to come to the picnic and skip the walk, it should begin at Nauthólsvík around 15:00.
Location: The Perlan Parking lot is the meeting point for the walk and Nauthólsvík beach is the meeting point for the picnic.
The Vera team is made up of: Ástrós Erla, Ingibjörg Ruth Gulin, Madeleine Boucher, Casey Dokoupil, Hrönn Svansdóttir, Erin Lawyer, Magda Doborzynska, Auðbjörg Helga, Sjöfn Asare and Alice Vaza.
