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# GayIceland

LGBTQIA+ news and interviews from Iceland

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Posts](https://gayiceland.is/posts/)
- [Musician Glóey: “Holy is my prayer”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/musician-gloey-holy-is-my-prayer/) - Holy, Glóeys latest song is a queer prayer. Their voice builds its own cathedral. There are songs that you don’t simply listen to, but step into and inhabit. When I played Holy, the newest track by Icelandic non-binary artist Glóey, I felt as if I were suddenly standing inside a cathedral. Glóey’s voice, multiplied into
- [From spreadsheets to sashes, Iceland’s newest queer royalty has arrived!](https://gayiceland.is/2025/from-spreadsheets-to-sashes-icelands-newest-queer-royalty-has-arrived/) - Meet Jóhann Örn B. Benediktsson: financial wizard by day, Mr. Reykjavík Bear by... well, also by day, because this guy doesn’t stop. After being crowned the first-ever titleholder at this year’s Reykjavík Bear festival, Jóhann’s inbox exploded with invites, applause, and global attention. But behind the glitter and glory is a deeply grounded, community-driven bear
- [Iceland’s men featured in global queer magazine Elska](https://gayiceland.is/2025/icelands-men-featured-in-global-queer-magazine-elska/) - Men from Iceland’s northern town, Akureyi, will feature in the 55th book of Elska magazine through a set of intimate and thought provoking photographs and stories. “Iceland has always been close to my heart, and making an issue in Akureyri has been a long-held dream,” says Elska's editor and founder, Liam Campbell. It will be
- [What’s on in November in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-november-in-lgbtqia-iceland-2/) - Halloween’s barely over, but Reykjavík’s queer scene is already deep into November nonsense. Whether you’re still in costume, cosied up with the Ace and Aro crew, belting karaoke ballads, or battling for the Iron Throne at Mandy Licious’ Game of Thrones quiz, there’s something happening for every flavour of queer this month. We’ve got spooky
- [“They are highly organized - that's why it's crucial to push back”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/they-are-highly-organized-thats-why-its-crucial-to-push-back/) - Icelandic intersex activist Kitty Anderson has spent years fighting for bodily autonomy, challenging unnecessary surgeries on intersex children, and breaking the silence and stigma around intersex lives. GayIceland's Magdalena Łukasiak spoke with Kitty about Iceland’s progress, the obstacles that remain and how the global backlash against queer rights is shaping her work. Legal milestones —
- [Not The Only Gay in the Village](https://gayiceland.is/2025/not-the-only-gay-in-the-village/) - How Flateyri’s 2024 winter pride proved the next queer frontier is in the mounatins, not the streets. Although Reykjavík Pride in August is the biggest in Iceland, a burgeoning movement of pride festivals has emerged all around the island thanks to proud locals claiming ground and taking up space in these areas. From Hinsegin vesturlands
- [What matters is ensuring people’s safety](https://gayiceland.is/2025/what-matters-is-ensuring-peoples-safety/) - Old Pros, Red Umbrella Iceland, Strip Lab, Red Umbrella Sweden, and PION are tomorrow hosting together a conference at the Nordic House in Reykjavík titled Sex Worker Stories and Public Policy, bringing together activists, researchers, and community voices, in a dialogue on decriminalization, queer solidarity, and rights of sex workers. GayIceland inquired Kaytlin Bailey, founder
- [“If we don’t stand together, all freedom will eventually be taken”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/if-we-dont-stand-together-all-freedom-will-eventually-be-taken/) - Elín Ey on music, anger, and speaking up for the Trans Community. “It disappoints and saddens me deeply how quiet the Icelandic music scene remains when it comes to showing support for the trans community. So many of my fellow musicians here have large platforms, strong voices, and audiences who listen, and yet so few
- [Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín: “I believe in the freedom to be who you are and love who you love”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/foreign-minister-thorgerdur-katrin-i-believe-in-the-freedom-to-be-who-you-are-and-love-who-you-love/) - In a interview with GayIceland's Magdalena Lukasiak, Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, addresses the troubling global backlash against LGBTQIA+ rights, emphasizing the urgency of sustained vigilance and proactive advocacy. We're currently witnessing a global backlash against queer rights. For example, this year in the UK, the Supreme Court ruled that the Women's
- [“I offer all of me, including the ugly and the vulnerable”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/i-offer-all-of-me-including-the-ugly-and-the-vulnerable/) - Singing through stigma. Paula Lovely on voice, visibility and queer resistance. Between smoky lights, glitter and late-night karaoke at KIKI, Paula Lovely has built a bridge between joy and protest. A singer, performer and activist, Paolo moved from Portugal to Iceland in 2024, looking, as he says, for “a place to build a more stable
- [What’s on in October in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-october-in-lgbtqia-iceland-2/) - October might be getting darker, but Iceland’s queer calendar is only heating up. From drag queens in cowboy boots to shirtless dancefloors and spooky pub quizzes, there’s no excuse to stay home this month unless you’re literally dead (and even then, Mandy Licious probably has a quiz question about you). Whether you’re belting bangers at
- [What’s on in September in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-september-in-lgbtqia-iceland-2/) - September in Iceland isn’t just about the nights getting darker, it’s about the queer calendar lighting up. This month has everything: ukulele-strumming lesbians celebrating love and chaos, drag queens belting and bantering their way through mid-life crises, cosy meet-ups for the Ace and Aro crowd, and a brand-new queer film festival bringing stories to the
- [Queer Cinema Returns to Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2025/queer-cinema-returns-to-reykjavik/) - The Icelandic Queer Film Festival is back after 30 years – and it’s louder, bolder, and more needed than ever. „Why hasn’t Iceland had a big queer film festival in over 30 years?” Óli Hjörtur Ólafsson asked himself back in 2020. It was a simple but powerful question - one that has now led to
- [The Trees Remember](https://gayiceland.is/2025/the-trees-remember/) - A Conversation on Queer Memory and Cruising in Öskjuhlíð Öskjuhlíð is a well-known outdoor wooded area very close to the centre of Iceland’s capital Reykjavík. It’s a unique space because it offers the feeling of a forest very close to the city. Nestled in the hill that sits below the dome of Perlan, this area
- [Big Bears in a Small Forest: Reykjavík Bear Turns 5](https://gayiceland.is/2025/big-bears-in-a-small-forest-reykjavik-bear-turns-5/) - If Reykjavík Pride is the glittery, rainbow-covered block party of the summer, then Reykjavík Bear is the slightly furrier, more relaxed cousin who brings the good hugs, better spa tips, and a very sexy growl. Now in its fifth year – and celebrating twenty years of bear festivals in Iceland, Reykjavík Bear 2025 is back
- [When Hatred Becomes Normal, We All Lose](https://gayiceland.is/2025/when-hatred-becomes-normal-we-all-lose/) - OPINION | Ugla writes about navigating life as a trans person in Iceland vs. UK Having lived both in the UK and Iceland as a trans person, it’s bizarre to consider how different the experiences are between these two countries. On one hand, Iceland is hailed as one of the most progressive nations on LGBTQIA+
- [Solidarity Creates Community](https://gayiceland.is/2025/solidarity-creates-community/) - Ugla Stefnía writes about how Pride is more important than ever, and how solidarity creates community. It would be safe to say that Pride season has been full on this year, and with good reason. In a world that is becoming increasingly hostile and divisive towards the queer community, Pride has not only become a
- [Arna Magnea Danks Breaks Barriers at Kashish: A Triumph for Trans People](https://gayiceland.is/2025/arna-magnea-danks-breaks-barriers-at-kashish-a-triumph-for-trans-people/) - Actress Arna Magnea Danks has just made history. At the Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival — the largest LGBTQ+ film festival in South Asia — she was awarded Best Performance in a Lead Role for her dual role as Birna and Björn in Odd Fish - the first Icelander ever to receive the award.
- [Fatherhood, Redefined: Three Dads, One Dream](https://gayiceland.is/2025/fatherhood-redefined-three-dads-one-dream/) - A new documentary film is set to screen at Bíó Paradís tonight, on August 7, as part of this year’s Reykjavík Pride Festival and the content of it is quite unique but also essential viewing in the current climate. The film is called Þrir Pabba (Fatherhood in English) and follows the lives of three men in
- [“Unity Creates Community”: Reykjavík Pride Marks 26 Years of Queer Resistance and Joy](https://gayiceland.is/2025/unity-creates-community-reykjavik-pride-marks-26-years-of-queer-resistance-and-joy/) - Reykjavík Pride turns 26 this year, and while the glitter and rainbows are still here, the stakes have never felt higher. What began in 1999 as Hinsegin dagar, a modest celebration of queer life in Iceland, has grown into one of the country’s most powerful public events. Each August, nearly a quarter of the population
- [Glitterbombing the World with Queer Chaos: Dirty Laundry Comes to Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2025/glitterbombing-the-world-with-queer-chaos-dirty-laundry-comes-to-reykjavik/) - The sequins are packed, the lashes are curled, and the glitter is about to explode. This Pride Week, Reykjavík will be hit with an unfiltered, high-voltage blast of queer joy, rage, and circus artistry as Dirty Laundry—the provocative show from Australia’s Briefs Factory—takes the stage at Tjarnarbíó. Described as “a down-and-dirty mixture of drag, boylesque,
- [Lady Phyll at Reykjavik Pride: “I want to understand the pulse of Iceland's queer community”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/lady-phyll-at-reykjavik-pride-i-want-to-understand-the-pulse-of-icelands-queer-community/) - Protest, solidary and radical love. GayIceland's Yaz Duncan sits down with powerhouse political activist and co-founder of UK Black Pride, Lady Phyll, who is taking part in Reykjavík Pride this year. Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, known as Lady Phyll, co-founded UK Black Pride twenty years ago, during that time she has worked tirelessly in her intersectional approach
- [What’s on in August in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-august-in-lgbtqia-iceland-2/) - August is serving full rainbow realness in Iceland. Pride week is here, and Reykjavík is about to explode with drag, DJs, parades, parties, and pure queer chaos (the good kind). You’ve got everything from all‑ages rainbow family fun and wild roller‑disco nights to deep‑dive talks, art shows that hit you right in the feels, and
- [Karla Sofía Gascón: “Trans People are never going to disappear, no matter how hard anyone tries”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/karla-sofia-gascon-trans-people-are-never-going-to-disappear-no-matter-how-hard-anyone-tries/) - Actress Karla Sofía Gascón talks about her career, the importance of representing trans people as real people in film, transphobia, dictatorship and the risk of democratic regression Europe is facing. She gave us Emilia Pérez. Hollywood gave her silence. Emilia Pérez is a bold musical crime drama about a Mexican drug lord who transitions to
- [Queer, married and polyamorous: Þórhildur on breaking the rules and finding more love](https://gayiceland.is/2025/queer-married-and-polyamorous-thorhildur-on-breaking-the-rules-and-finding-more-love/) - Relationship coach, mother, activist, and queer woman Þórhildur Magnúsdóttir speaks to GayIceland about what polyamory has taught her about intimacy, parenting, heartbreak — and the radical power of being honest with yourself. How new love begins When Þórhildur Magnúsdóttir first heard the word polyamory, it landed like a spark. A friend described opening her relationship
- [From Diaries to Dystopia: Bjarni’s Back with Two Queer Power Plays](https://gayiceland.is/2025/from-diaries-to-dystopia-bjarnis-back-with-two-queer-power-plays/) - Bjarni Snæbjörnsson is cracking open his adolescent diaries once more, and Iceland gets front-row seats. After a two-year pause (and a roller-coaster stint at the Edinburgh Fringe), his hit one-man musical “Góðan daginn, faggi” returns for a summer encore, still fizzing with the gleeful cringe and gut-punch honesty that made queer audiences across the country
- [Family Portrait: Stories Behind Glitter and Blood](https://gayiceland.is/2025/family-portrait-stories-behind-glitter-and-blood/) - For Magdalena Lukasiak, "Family Portrait" is far more than a photographic project—it's a deeply personal exploration of pain, confrontation, and ultimately, liberation. Behind the glitter, lashes, and defiant laughter, there is blood. Not literal, but the kind that courses through every queer body that has survived judgment, abandonment, and invisibility. For the past three years,
- [Morningstarr: “Drag Is more than a show, it’s a statement”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/morningstarr-drag-is-more-than-a-show-its-a-statement/) - Morningstarr is a prominent performer in Iceland’s queer and drag scene. Originally from Mexico, she has lived in various places, including the Faroe Islands, before finding a home in Iceland. Her experiences across different cultures shape both her art and her identity. She is also part of Family Portrait, a photo documentary project by yours
- [What’s on in July in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-july-in-lgbtqia-iceland-2/) - Hot Queer Summer? Confirmed. And Iceland is not taking a day off. Buckle up, babes, July is here, and Iceland’s queer calendar is serving drag, drama, deep feels, and disco-level joy. Whether you’re howling into the mic at Kikioke, sobbing/laughing through Góðan Daginn, Faggi, or basking in queer art in the wild north of Húsavík,
- [What’s on in June in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-june-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - While Iceland saves its main Pride celebrations for August, June is still packed with queer magic; and this year, it’s giving art, community, and plenty of opportunities to turn a look. From voguing workshops and Ballroom panels to comedy, lesbian quizzes, and karaoke chaos at Kiki, the month is bursting with events that celebrate LGBTQ+
- [Reykjavík Fringe Festival: A queer celebration of artistic freedom](https://gayiceland.is/2025/reykjavik-fringe-festival-a-queer-celebration-of-artistic-freedom/) - Reykjavík Fringe Festival returns this summer from Monday, June 2 to Sunday, June 8, bringing with it an explosion of queer creativity, radical kindness, and fearless performance. Led by Scottish-born director Andrew Sim, the festival has evolved into one of Iceland’s most inclusive and exciting cultural events—where drag artists, trans performers, and queer storytellers aren’t
- [“Queer joy is the ultimate act of resistance”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/queer-joy-is-the-ultimate-act-of-resistance/) - Reykjavík-based non-binary artist Glóey releases debut single that’s more than just a song—it’s a declaration of queer love, longing, and joy. Before its official release today, on May the 9th, GayIceland had the chance to listen to “Away”, the debut single by artist Glóey (they/them)—and what we heard is a love song that doesn’t just
- [Strap In For a Kinky New Night at Kiki!](https://gayiceland.is/2025/strap-in-for-a-kinky-new-night-at-kiki/) - This Saturday, Reykjavík’s Kiki Queer Bar is turning up the heat with STRAPPED, a kink-themed queer night. With DJs, go-go dancers, and harnesses galore, the event promises to be more than just a party. It’s a celebration of queer energy, self-expression, and playful liberation. We caught up with two of the DJs behind the night;
- [Icelandic town paints its main square in support of trans rights](https://gayiceland.is/2025/icelandic-town-paints-its-main-square-in-support-of-trans-rights/) - “We hope that this little initiative of ours from our little town in a remote fjord in Iceland may inspire other people and give them the hope we all need,” says Diego Ragnar Angemi, member of the group Queer Westfjords and citizen of ísafjörður, where the main square will been painted with trans flag colors.
- [“No matter what challenges arise, we will fight for recognition and freedom”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/no-matter-what-challenges-arise-we-will-fight-for-recognition-and-freedom/) - GayIceland’s Magdalena Lukasiak talks to Eva María Glimmer Þórarinsdóttir Lange, CEO of Pink Iceland about the honor of being recently named in Attitude’s 101 list of LGBTQ+ pioneers, her work for the LGBTQIA+ community and the backlash we are currently facing. For years Eva María Glimmer Þórarinsdóttir Lange, CEO of Pink Iceland and former chair
- [The Happiness Run: A safe space where queer people can be their authentic selves](https://gayiceland.is/2025/running-on-high-heels/) - Come on get happy: Everything you need to know about the Happiness Run on International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, Intersexphobia and Biphobia on May 17th. This year The Happiness Run through Elliðaárdalurinn, in the heart of Reykjavík, will take place on 17 May marking the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, Intersexphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT). GayIceland
- [“You Are Safe With Me” — A Story of parenthood, allyship, and belonging](https://gayiceland.is/2025/you-are-safe-with-me-a-story-of-parenthood-allyship-and-belonging/) - “Our goal was never just about protecting our own kids. It was — and still is — about making Iceland safer, kinder, and more human for all trans people,” says María Gunnarsdóttir, a parent of a trans girl and chair of a group called Trans Allies. The group recently kicked off a campaign in Iceland,
- [What’s on in May in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-may-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - May is Serving Queer Magic, and You’re Invited to Every Sparkly Second! Get ready, besties! May in Iceland is positively bursting with queer joy, community love, and more glitter than a drag queen’s makeup bag at 3AM. Whether you're belting out your favourite power ballad at karaoke, voguing your heart out on the dancefloor, laughing
- [Polyamory in Iceland: Creating space for connection and belonging](https://gayiceland.is/2025/polyamory-in-iceland-creating-space-for-connection-and-belonging/) - In a society that often champions monogamy as the default relationship structure, finding space for alternative approaches to love and relating can feel challenging. For Ástrós Erla Benediktsdóttir, embracing polyamory has been a deeply personal journey, one she now hopes to share with others. To create a sense of belonging and understanding, Ástrós, alongside two
- [“A joyful act of resistance to the backlash”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/a-joyful-act-of-resistance-to-the-backlash/) - The positive impact of movement and exercise on our physical and mental health can’t be understated. Oftentimes, queer people can feel reluctant to take part in sport and exercise but Bjarni Snæbjörnsson, actor, author and podcast host, and Hannes Sasi Pálsson, co-owner of Pink Iceland, are hoping to change that. GayIceland sat down with Bjarni
- [Attacks On Trans People is an Attack on Freedom Itself](https://gayiceland.is/2025/attacks-on-trans-people-is-an-attack-on-freedom-itself/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía writes about President Trump's and his administration's systemic attacks on the trans community. Since taking office, Trump and his administration have systematically targeted trans people. It began with an executive order defining sex as determined "at conception", followed by bans on trans athletes, restrictions on changing legal gender markers, and even the
- [Gógó Starr Gives us a new form of Lip Service](https://gayiceland.is/2025/gogo-starr-gives-us-a-new-form-of-lip-service/) - Known for her razor-sharp wit, dazzling performances, and unapologetic presence, Gógo Starr has become one of the most recognisable figures in Iceland’s drag scene. Now, the beloved queen is turning her talents to a new arena; sex education. In collaboration with pioneering sex shop Blush, Gógó is leading a series of cheeky, educational workshops on
- [“We Can’t Drop the Ball”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/we-cant-drop-the-ball/) - Chair of the National Queer Organisation of Iceland (Samtökin ’78) Bjarndís Helga Tómasdóttir on celebrating Iceland’s progress in the queer rights struggle, facing challenges head on, and the importance of defending the progress made. On a cold winter afternoon, I rang the doorbell of the National Queer Organization’s headquarters in downtown Reykjavík. The door was
- [What’s on in April in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-april-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - April in LGBTQ+ Iceland is all about bold expression, fresh energy, and community in full bloom. As Reykjavík starts to shake off the frost, the queer scene comes alive with electric drag shows, thoughtful meetups, and dance floors pulsing with possibility. This month, it’s not just the daylight that’s stretching; it’s creativity, visibility, and connection
- [What’s on in March in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-march-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - March in LGBTQ+ Iceland is a time of transition, where the last traces of winter begin to fade, and the promise of spring lingers in the air. As daylight stretches further into the evenings, the queer community keeps the energy high with gatherings that celebrate creativity, resilience, and joy. From the pulsating beats of underground
- [“We will continue to exist, resist and fight for our rights”](https://gayiceland.is/2025/we-will-continue-to-exist-resist-and-fight-for-our-rights/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía writes about Trump's attempts to legally erase trans and intersex people - and why it's only the beginning Trump becoming President of the United States again unsurprisingly has many people feeling afraid and hopeless for what is to come. Trump has made it very clear, both when he was president previously and
- [A Return to Chaos](https://gayiceland.is/2025/a-return-to-chaos/) - OPINION Michael Ryan writes about the renewed fight for queer liberation in America, as a second Trump administration makes attacks against the LGBTQIA + community. News Cycle Numbness “I was hoping it’d be less dystopian than this,” read a message from a friend back home. Sadly, I had to agree. The past week of U.S.
- [Daphne Always: Performing with pride in a time of trans resistance](https://gayiceland.is/2025/daphne-always-performing-with-pride-in-a-time-of-trans-resistance/) - Cabaret Icon Daphne Always will take over Icelandic scene on with the Kjallarakabarett at the National Theater Basement (Þjóðleikhúskjallari) on February 14th, then with her wonderful friends, including Gógó Starr, at Kiki Queer Bar on February 15th and with a Burlesque workshop on February 16th at Kramhúsið in Reykjavík. GayIceland’s Magdalena Lukasiak sat down with
- [Furry, Fluffy, and Fabulous: How Bangsafélagið is Celebrating Every Body](https://gayiceland.is/2025/furry-fluffy-and-fabulous-how-bangsafelagid-is-celebrating-every-body/) - It’s time to come out of your caves, because local bear group Bangsafélagið is hosting a pool party, MOIST, at Vestubæjarlaug today, February the 9th. The perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy a hot dip in the pool, and spend time together in a welcoming atmosphere. Origins and Purpose of Bangsafélagið The Icelandic bear community found
- [Story Time with Sindri Sparkle](https://gayiceland.is/2025/story-time-with-sindri-sparkle/) - Although their name is literally Sparkle, Sindri Sparkle Freyr’s work is more like the lights in a kaleidoscope: it shifts shape and changes color at every turn. The multidisciplinary artist is best known from stages all around Reykjavík, but you may also find them on bookshelves, art galleries, and who-knows-where-else. Cartoons and Canvas “I'm mostly
- [What’s on in February in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-february-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - February in LGBTQIA+ Iceland is a month of warmth, connection, and vibrant expression, nestled within the heart of winter. As the days gradually grow longer and the crisp air carries the promise of spring, the LGBTQ+ community continues to shine with resilience and creativity. This is a time to celebrate love, identity, and togetherness, with
- [Breaking Barriers: Advancing Queer Inclusion in Icelandic Sports, Leisure and Youth Activities](https://gayiceland.is/2024/breaking-barriers-advancing-queer-inclusion-in-icelandic-sports-leisure-and-youth-activities/) - The Ministry of Education and Children, in collaboration with The National Queer Organization Samtökin '78, published today a groundbreaking educational material titled “LGBTQ+ Children and Young People in Sports, Leisure, and Youth Activities: Guidelines for Those Responsible”. GayIceland caught up with Sveinn Sampsted to discuss the significance of these materials and their impact expectations on
- [What’s on in January in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2025/whats-on-in-january-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - January in LGBTQ+ Iceland is a time of fresh beginnings, resilience, and community warmth amidst the winter chill. As the festive lights linger and the New Year’s fireworks fade, the month brings a mix of celebration, creativity, and reconnection. For Iceland’s LGBTQ+ community, January offers a chance to embrace the beauty of winter while fostering
- [Gógó Starr: Building a community with glitter and guts](https://gayiceland.is/2024/gogo-starr-building-a-community-with-glitter-and-guts/) - From high school musicals in Akureyri to Tokyo bar shows and beyond, Gógó Starr has become a beacon of Icelandic drag. With a career steeped in flamboyant performances, community-building, and unapologetic queerness, Gógó reflects on the journey that brought her to center stage and the legacy she's shaping in Iceland's vibrant drag scene. Through candid
- [Despite an Alarming Backlash, Our Community Stands Resilient](https://gayiceland.is/2024/despite-an-alarming-backlash-our-community-stands-resilient/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía Reviews 2024 It’s the most wonderful time of the year, like someone once wrote. While I certainly agree, it’s also a time where I tend to look over the year that has just passed and contemplate on what’s happened – because it’s been a lot. In the past few years there has
- [Elska Magazine sets its sights on the men of Akureyri](https://gayiceland.is/2025/elska-magazine-sets-its-sights-on-akureyri/) - Akureyri to be featured in men's magazine Elska. “I am coming to photograph guys in and around Akureyri for what is set to be Elska's 54th issue,“ says Elska editor and chief photographer Liam Campbell, about the magazines upcoming visit to Iceland. If I could, I’d make an Elska in every city in Iceland. Liam
- [Szumowska: Poland turns its back on trans people](https://gayiceland.is/2024/szumowska-poland-turns-its-back-on-trans-people/) - A Polish team of filmmakers have created Woman Of... (Kobieta z), Poland’s first feature film about a transgender woman, inspired by true stories. Premiering in the Main Competition of the Venice Film Festival, the poignant film offers a message of hope amid hardship and is now showing at Bíó Paradís in Reykjavík. Woman Of... by
- [Gender Queer: “The Beauty of Finding Oneself”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/gender-queer-the-beauty-of-finding-oneself/) - In 2014, Maia Kobabe (e/em/eir) published Gender Queer: A Memoir, a cathartic autobiography and touching guide on the journey of gender and self identity. Since it was published, the work has been translated into many languages, but not Icelandic - until now. GayIceland sat down with Mars M. Proppé and Elías Rúni to talk about
- [“Joy is our most powerful weapon”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/joy-is-our-most-powerful-weapon/) - Queer Prom, karaoke nights, and free binders are just some of the things 13 to 16-year-olds can access at Iceland’s first Queer Youth Centre. In the very centre of Reykjavík, behind the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, is a space unlike any other in the country. Tucked at the back of a parking lot, it’s very easy
- [Tightly Knit](https://gayiceland.is/2024/tightly-knit/) - Two queer knitters that connected through their craft are now using it to stitch together Reykjavík’s queer community. “There are so many people who sit at home and knit or embroider while they watch TV. We thought: why not ping all the queer people doing handicrafts at home alone, bring them together at Samtökin ’78,
- [“Trans People Belong in Sports and We are Here to Prove it”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/trans-people-belong-in-sports-and-we-are-here-to-prove-it/) - In recent years there’s been an increase in the level of transphobic rhetoric in sports, with athletes at all levels facing questioning, discrimination and barriers to competing in, or just enjoying exercise. GayIceland sits down with Alex Diljar Hellsing from the fitness group Stronger Together to discuss how the group is helping trans and non-binary
- [What’s on in December in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-december-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - December in LGBTQ+ Iceland is a truly magical time, where unique Icelandic traditions meet the vibrant spirit of the community. As the snow blankets the landscapes and the northern lights illuminate the long winter nights, the season brings an atmosphere of enchantment. For the LGBTQ+ community, December offers an opportunity to celebrate these traditions while
- [First Icelandic same-sex romance musical to premiere](https://gayiceland.is/2024/first-icelandic-queer-centered-musical-to-premier/) - This October, the dynamic Icelandic choir Viðlag is set to unveil its most ambitious project yet—a queer-centered musical titled ‘Við erum hér’ (‘Here for You’). The production, taking place on the wedding day of two grooms, promises to be a unique blend of humor, emotion, and celebration of queer identity. GayIceland's Magdalena Lukasiak sat with
- [What’s on in November in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-november-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - November in LGBTQIA+ Iceland marks the onset of winter, as the landscape begins to shift from autumn’s golden hues to the muted tones of early snowfall. With the days growing ever shorter, the warmth of the LGBTQIA+ community offers a welcome glow amid the encroaching chill. While October brought a tranquil reflection, November ushers in
- [“It is very important for us to know that we are a community”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/it-is-very-important-for-us-to-know-that-we-are-a-community/) - Árni Grétar, previous owner of Kíkí, looks back. All good things must come to an end, so they say. For those of us who have partied at Kíkí until the wee hours, the experience of wishing that the night would go on forever is universal. But eventually the music inevitably fades, the lights come up,
- [All the cards in the deck](https://gayiceland.is/2024/all-the-cards-in-the-deck/) - Hey there, we're Ásar á Íslandi, the asexual and aromantic association of Iceland. Ever heard of us? A few years back, you probably hadn't even heard of the words “asexual” or “aromantic”, especially in Iceland. It was in 2017 that GayIceland first gave us a shout out - a huge moment for us. That article
- [Photographer Eva Ágústa opens a new exhibition: „I want to show people the diversity of society"](https://gayiceland.is/2024/photographer-eva-agusta-i-want-to-show-people-the-diversity-of-society/) - The exhibition Queer and Autistic by Eva Ágústa opens at Reykjavik Museum of Photography (Ljósmyndasafn Reykjavíkur), on Reykjavík Culture Night, August 24th at 17:00-20:00. The exhibition Queer and Autistic is a collection of photographs of queer individuals on the autism spectrum, with or without an official diagnosis. „I want to show people the diversity of
- [House of Heart drag - A Celebration of Queer Power and Activism](https://gayiceland.is/2024/house-of-heart-drag-a-celebration-of-queer-power-and-activism/) - I recently watched the drag show Drag Saga by the House of Heart. This group of amazingly hard-working and talented performers often calls their shows "stupid" and "silly." To me, it's never stupid; it’s always funny, and for the entire time I'm watching them on stage, I find myself in a happy place. I had
- [New director of Samtökin '78: “We Want Iceland to Rank First”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/new-director-of-samtokin-78-we-want-iceland-to-rank-first/) - Of the professional roles relating to queerness in Iceland, perhaps one of the most prestigious is director of Samtökin ‘78. That esteemed baton has now been passed to Kári Garðarsson, who was appointed in July. Three months into his new position, Kári sat down with GayIceland to discuss his hopes and ambitions for the future
- [What’s on in October in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-october-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - Though the grand spectacles of summer may have passed, October remains a vibrant month on the LGBTQIA+ calendar, filled with enriching events. October in LGBTQIA+ Iceland ushers in a deeper sense of autumn, as the crisp air and golden hues of the season settle across the country. While the daylight hours grow shorter, the vibrancy
- [Brand New Show to Premier: Stars-studded, Fun and Flamboyant](https://gayiceland.is/2024/brand-new-show-to-premier-stars-studded-fun-and-flamboyant/) - Dynamic theatre duo launch show with musical favourites and very special guests. Unstoppable duo, Sigga Eyrún and Bjarni Snæbjörnsson, have been a mainstay on the Icelandic theatre scene for close to two decades. They sat down with GayIceland to talk about their new show, Söngleikjastælar - Musical Styles which will bring together fun, flamboyant performances
- [The Importance of Pride Festivals Across Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2024/the-importance-of-pride-festivals-across-iceland/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía reflects on the importance of visibility and Pride across all of Iceland. When I was growing up, I didn’t even know what Pride was. Growing up at a farm in rural Iceland meant that I lived in a small isolated community, where these things were rarely discussed. At school there was no
- [Actress Arna Magnea Danks: “I couldn’t live the lie anymore“](https://gayiceland.is/2024/actress-arna-magnea-danks-i-couldnt-live-the-lie-anymore/) - In an interview with GayIceland's Magdalena Lukasiak, Arna Magnea Danks, an actress, fight director, teacher and trans rights advocate, delves into her journey of self-discovery, her role in the groundbreaking film Odd Fish, opening in cinemas in Iceland this week and the challenges and triumphs of living authentically as a trans woman in Iceland. GayIceland:
- [Furry, Friendly, and Fabulous: Reykjavík Bear Festival 2024](https://gayiceland.is/2024/furry-friendly-and-fabulous-reykjavik-bear-festival-2024/) - Reykjavík has a reputation for hosting a vibrant array of festivals throughout the year, and when it comes to queer celebrations, the city certainly knows how to stand out on the global stage. While the Reykjavík Pride Festival may be the most well-known LGBTQiA+ event in Iceland, drawing crowds from across the world for its
- [Queer Situations: New queer literary festival takes flight](https://gayiceland.is/2024/queer-situations-new-queer-literary-festival-takes-flight/) - The first ever queer literary festival in Iceland will take place in Reykjavík and Kópavogur in August. The festival is the brain child of Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir and Eva Rún Snorradóttir, who are both acclaimed poets and playwrights. They felt that this kind of festival was missing on the Icelandic literary scene and instead of
- [What’s on in September in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-september-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - Throughout Reykjavik and the surrounding areas, September is filled with events that cater to both the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. The capital's cozy cafes and cultural hubs become meeting points for engaging discussions, artistic showcases, and intimate social gatherings. With the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season behind, September offers a more relaxed
- [What’s on in August in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-august-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - August in LGBTQ+ Iceland heralds the pinnacle of summer's brilliance, as the nation basks in the glow of endless days and the buildup to the grand National Pride celebration. The continuous sunlight illuminates Iceland's striking landscapes, infusing the LGBTQIA+ community with renewed energy and enthusiasm. August, with its perfect blend of long days and active
- [The endless, inexhaustible potentiality of identity - a series of questions for Madame Nielsen](https://gayiceland.is/2024/the-endless-inexhaustible-potentiality-of-identity-a-series-of-questions-for-madame-nielsen/) - Queer Situations, the first ever queer literary festival in Iceland will take place in Reykjavík and Kópavogur, this week, from the 22nd to the 24th of August. On Friday, Madame Nielsen, one of Denmark’s most daring artists, will take to the stage. Madame Nielsen is without a doubt one of Denmark’s most exciting creatives. A
- [Elska Magazine: Nine Years of Diverse Queer Photography and Stories](https://gayiceland.is/2024/elska-magazine-nine-years-of-diverse-queer-photography/) - Elska magazine celebrates nine years of sharing diverse queer photography and stories. “I'm incredibly grateful to have been around this long. I understand how rare it is for any artistic endeavour to be sustainable and have longevity, so I must give thanks to all the customers and participants over these nine years,” says Elska editor
- [VIDEO: Jujubee excited to perform at Reykjavík Pride: “I'm thrilled!“](https://gayiceland.is/2024/jujubee-excited-to-perform-at-reykjavik-pride-im-thrilled/) - The beloved drag queen, renowned for her charisma and elegance, is set to dazzle audiences at Reykjavík Pride. Jujubee, who has captivated fans worldwide with her stunning performances and heartfelt stories, shares her excitement and plans for the future in this exclusive interview. “I'm thrilled to see everyone celebrating Pride!“ she exclaims. The energy and
- [It’s Time to Celebrate - Everything You Need to Know About Reykjavík Pride 2024](https://gayiceland.is/2024/its-time-to-celebrate-everything-you-need-to-know-about-reykjavik-pride-2024/) - This year, Reykjavík Pride marks a significant milestone: the 25th anniversary of its inception. GayIceland sat down with the president of the Reykjavík Pride Committee who promises various events, on a grander scale than before and the biggest drag show in Reykjavík. Reykjavík Pride, a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and inclusion, has become a
- [Live stream from the Reykjavík Pride Parade 2024](https://gayiceland.is/2024/live-stream-from-the-reykjavik-pride-parade-2024/) - Watch the biggest event of Reykjavík Pride live! The Reykjavík Pride Parade gets bigger and more fabulous every year. This year the parade will start at Tækniskólinn next to Hallgrímskirkja church at 14 pm. The parade will then march down Skólavörðustígur, Bankastræti, Lækjargata, and Fríkirkjuvegur where the parade concludes. The participants will continue to Sóleyjargata
- [Reykjavík Pride launches it's 2024 magazine](https://gayiceland.is/2024/reykjavik-pride-launches-its-2024-magazine/) - The 2024 Reykjavík Pride Magazine is out! GayIceland attended a party held at Iceland Parliament Hotel to celebrate it's launch - and as the following photos show the guests had a great time.
- [Drag Brunch at Hotel Borg Restaurant: “We want guests to laugh, scream and dance“](https://gayiceland.is/2024/glamour-and-fun-drag-brunch-at-hotel-borg-restaurant/) - Inspired by the vibrant drag scene in Miami, a new weekly Sunday drag brunch has launched at the Restaurant of iconic Hotel Borg in Reykjavík. Spearheaded by local drag producer and performer Miss Whoop Whoop this event promises a unique blend of entertainment, community, and culinary delights. With performances by top local and international drag
- [Let’s Keep Having a Kiki!](https://gayiceland.is/2024/lets-keep-having-a-kiki/) - Reykjavík’s famous queer bar is under new ownership. So what will that mean for this local hotspot? Iceland’s only dedicated queer bar, “Kiki” has been a consistent attraction for queer locals and travellers alike since it officially opened under the name in 2014. The bar, situated upstairs at Laugavegur 22 has recently changed ownership which
- [“I really wanted to write about women falling in love”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/i-really-wanted-to-write-about-women-falling-in-love/) - You might wonder if there is anything that Ingileif Friðriksdóttir can’t do. This powerhouse author, journalist, musician and LGBTQAI+ activist sat down with GayIceland to talk about her latest novel, Ljósbrot (Refraction). Published recently, it tells the story of the loves and lives of two young women. “The novel tells two stories at once. On
- [What’s on in July in LGBTQIA+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-july-in-lgbtqia-iceland/) - July in LGBTQIA+ Iceland marks a continuation of the celebratory spirit that began in June, as the country remains awash with the brilliance of the summer sun. The enduring daylight casts a magical glow over Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, further invigorating the LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate with unabated enthusiasm. July, with its warmer days and milder
- [From a Sheep Farm to Bessastaðir: Iceland’s First Openly Gay Presidential Candidate](https://gayiceland.is/2024/from-a-sheep-farm-to-bessastadir-icelands-first-openly-gay-presidential-candidate/) - Meet Baldur Þórhallsson, the man who could become Iceland’s First Openly Gay President. The President of Iceland holds a unique position in the country's political landscape, embodying not only the ceremonial aspects of the office but also wielding significant constitutional power. In a nation known for its progressive values and commitment to human rights, the
- [Uniting a Community: It's time for Vesturland’s Pride Festival](https://gayiceland.is/2024/uniting-a-community-its-time-for-vesturlands-pride-festival/) - The Vesturland Pride Festival and Parade, which takes place for the fourth time in Borgarnes (a town located on a peninsula at the shore of Borgarfjörður in Iceland) between the 27th - 30th of June, have become a cornerstone of the local LGBTQAI+ community, representing both celebration and visibility. Gunna, Guðrún Steinunn Guðbrandsdóttir, president of
- [This is what Iceland's presidential candidates think of LGBTQAI+ rights](https://gayiceland.is/2024/this-is-what-icelands-presidential-candidates-think-of-lgbtqai-rights/) - The Icelandic Presidential Election will be held on June the 1st. The race is shaping up to be interesting as well as exciting with different candidates taking the lead in polls. GayIceland reached out to the candidates in question to find out where they stand when it comes to LGBTQAI+ rights. These are the questions
- [Iceland's Impressive Progress of LGBTQIA+ Rights Gives Hope For A Better Future](https://gayiceland.is/2024/icelands-impressive-progress-of-lgbtqia-rights-gives-hope-for-a-better-future/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía writes about how Iceland has made meaningful changes for LGBTQIA+ people in recent years, ranking the 1st and 2nd on Transgender Europe’s Trans Map and ILGA Europe’s Rainbow Map respectively. She reminds that even during the current backlash, there is still hope for a brighter future. Earlier this month Transgender Europe (TGEU)
- [What’s on in June in LGBTQAI+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-june-in-lgbtqai-iceland/) - June ushers in a vibrant chapter in the LGBTQ+ calendar in Iceland, as the country bathes in the extended daylight of the summer solstice. The (usual) warmth of the sun invigorates both the land and its people, casting a glow over Iceland's stunning landscapes and energising the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate with renewed zeal. Amidst
- [Unveiling Humanity: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Advocacy with Bjarni Snæbjörnsson](https://gayiceland.is/2024/unveiling-humanity-a-journey-of-self-discovery-and-advocacy-with-bjarni-snaebjornsson/) - Step into the realm of “Mennska” with actor, author and podcast host Bjarni Snæbjörnsson as he embarks on a poignant journey of self-discovery and connection. In an insightful interview, Bjarni shares the inspirations behind his book and podcast, both titled “Mennska”, exploring themes of self-expression, inclusion, and vulnerability. Rooted in his acclaimed play “Góðan Daginn
- [“I hope every LGBTQI+ person experiences acceptance”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/i-hope-every-lgbtqi-person-experiences-acceptance/) - OPINION Angel Buns P'ojara-Hassan on how she discovered love and healing withing herself after living in Iceland. I would like to share a bit of a love story. As a lesbian I have been told that what I am is a sin. I have been told that I will not go to heaven. I have
- [“We all deserve to feel safe”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/we-all-deserve-to-feel-safe/) - As the world prepares for an Olympic year, one Icelander, Sveinn Sampsted, has been working hard to make the world of sports safer and more inclusive for queer people. Sports fans from all over the world will turn their eyes towards Paris this summer for the 33rd Olympic Games. A lot has changed about the
- [What's on in May in LGBTQAI+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-may-in-lgbtqai-iceland/) - May heralds a new chapter in the LGBTQ+ calendar in Iceland, as the country continues its transition into the full embrace of spring. With the last vestiges of winter bidding farewell, May brings forth a sense of rejuvenation and anticipation for the warmer months ahead. Against this backdrop of burgeoning greenery and blossoming flowers, the
- [Listening Out Loud](https://gayiceland.is/2024/listening-out-loud/) - Reykjavík Pride’s new president seeks to improve on a good thing. By now it is probably common knowledge that Reykjavík Pride is one of Iceland’s largest festivals, sometimes even rivaling the number of attendees for Independence Day celebrations. Reykjavík Pride is a lot of things–a celebration, a protest, a show of solidarity, a demonstration of
- [Brianna's Death Was Caused By Transphobia - We Cannot Let That Happen In Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2024/briannas-death-was-caused-by-transphobia-we-cannot-let-that-happen-in-iceland/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía writes about the importance of combating anti-trans sentiments early, before they fester and lead to increased hate crimes and violent crimes. On a chilly winters’ day on February the 11th 2023, a young trans girl named Brianna Ghey made her way to Culcheth Linear Park in Warrington, England – where she was
- [What's on in April in LGBTQAI+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-april-in-lgbtq-iceland/) - April brings a blossoming of queer culture across Iceland, as the country shakes off the remnants of winter and embraces the budding signs of spring. While patches of snow may still linger in remote corners, the days grow longer, offering a glimmer of warmth and renewal. Amidst this seasonal shift, the LGBTQ+ community in Iceland
- [Journey - Kaśka Paluch on art, life and finding love](https://gayiceland.is/2024/journey-kaska-paluch-on-art-life-and-finding-love/) - Kaśka Paluch first came to Iceland on a journalism assignment, since then she has built a life she never thought possible. GayIceland spoke with the Polish musician and artist about her new music project and her relationship with her home country. Inspiration for Kaśka’s new musical project Noise from Iceland, came from meeting a visually
- [What’s On in March in LGBTQAI+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-march-in-lgbtq-iceland/) - March is a month of transition in queer Iceland. As the winter gradually loosens its grip, there's a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. The days are perceptibly longer, promising the imminent return of sunlight and warmth. Despite the lingering chill and sporadic snow, March holds its own charm for those visiting or residing
- [What’s On in February in LGBTQAI+ Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2024/whats-on-in-february-in-lgbtq-iceland/) - February is often a month where things start to seem a little less bleak. The million weeks of January are behind us and the days begin to get longer, reminding us that there will, eventually, be some sun again. It’s a shorter month but still one that can pack a bit of fun if you
- [Iceland's First Non-Binary Folk Costume Weaves a Future of Inclusivity](https://gayiceland.is/2024/icelands-first-non-binary-folk-costume-weaves-a-future-of-inclusivity/) - A groundbreaking cultural event is set to weave a vibrant thread through the heart of Icelandic tradition by introducing the country's first non-binary folk costume. Spearheaded by local organizer Anna Karen and internationally acclaimed non-binary activist Fredy Clue, this innovative project aims to challenge traditional gender norms and foster a more inclusive cultural landscape. Folk
- [“It’s Not a Queer Film, but it’s Definitely Very Gay!”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/its-not-a-queer-film-but-its-definitely-very-gay/) - Icelandic Filmmaker Erlingur Thoroddsen reflects on his latest horror film, ‘The Piper,’ that just premiered in Icelandic cinema. With a new year comes new resolutions, new perspectives, new goals, but also new films. 2024 is set to be an interesting year in cinema; most notably because of the massive writers’s strikes of last year. A
- [New LGBT+ group: “Counting on all 60+ to show up”](https://gayiceland.is/2024/new-lgbt-group-counting-on-all-60-to-show-up/) - In a first-of-its-kind event last January, Samtökin '78 hosted a casual happy hour meetup at Aldamót bar in Reykjavik, specifically tailored for members of the LGBT+ community aged 60 and above. We caught up with Þorbjörg Þorvaldsdóttir, the project manager of this initiative, and spoke with Ragnhildur Sverrisdóttir, one of the participants, to get a
- [Recycling Hate](https://gayiceland.is/2023/recycling-hate/) - Vera Illugadóttir on Anita Bryant, Christianity, and the fight against bigotry in Iceland. A pop singer turned Miss Oklahoma beauty pageant winner turned Florida Citrus Commission spokesperson was once the most prominent face of homophobia in the United States. Anita Bryant, whose “Save Our Children” campaign successfully repealed a local Miami-Dade County ordinance forbidding discrimination
- [What’s Happening Now is Unbelievable, Yet it’s Happening](https://gayiceland.is/2023/whats-happening-now-is-unbelievable-yet-its-happening/) - Writer Vigdís Grímsdóttir uses the fantastical to reveal injustice. Vigdís Grímsdóttir is a Fairy Queen, you read it here first! She lives in a two-storey boulder (OK a concrete house clad with pebble dash) and puts a spell on her guests. True story. Journalist Ingibjörg Rósa describes her encounter with the award-winning writer, whose queer
- [Coming Home](https://gayiceland.is/2023/coming-home/) - Veiga Grétarsdóttir Sulebust talks about her literal and figurative journeys. Veiga Grétarsdóttir Sulebust is very familiar with rising to the challenge of difficult but fulfilling voyages. Having kayaked the circumference of Iceland against the ocean currents–the first and so far only person to do so–she has demonstrated great physical strength and determination. By the same
- [“Standing Together is our Strongest Weapon Against Hate”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/standing-together-is-our-strongest-weapon-against-hate/) - Iceland’s Bear Association recently donated the proceeds of their festival to Trans Ísland. GayIceland speaks with representatives from both groups to find out what motivated the gift, what it feels like to receive such a gift at this time, and the importance of community support. In an era where self-expression and identity are at the
- [Trans Awareness Week: Exposing Anti-LGBTIQIA+ Rhetoric As Conspiracy](https://gayiceland.is/2023/trans-awareness-week-exposing-anti-lgbtiqia-rhetoric-as-conspiracy/) - OPINION Ugla Stefanía writes about the relevance of Trans Awareness week. With Trans Awareness week being celebrated across the globe around this time of year, it’s important to reflect on why we still have days and weeks like this. In recent weeks there has been a real barrage of anti-LGBTQIA+ hatred that’s bubbled to the
- [Ukulellur 5 Years Better](https://gayiceland.is/2023/ukulellur-5-years-better/) - Iceland’s Pioneer Queer Band Changing the World One Song at a Time. Iceland is well-known for being a country that has delivered a lot of incredible music artists to the world. The music scene in Iceland is diverse, with artists from various genres such as folk, rock, electronic and indie. Most people have heard of
- [World-renown Group ‘Drag Syndrome’ to Perfom in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2023/world-renown-group-drag-syndrome-to-perfom-in-iceland/) - UK based drag royalty hope to shatter Iceland’s perception of disability with spectacular performances. In a world that often emphasizes conformity, Drag Syndrome stands out as a vibrant beacon of inclusivity and acceptance. This groundbreaking collective of artists with disabilities will be embarking on a journey to Iceland this week to explore the island’s stunning
- [Who in the world is Crisartista?](https://gayiceland.is/2023/who-in-the-world-is-crisartista/) - The island’s newest sparkling drag sensation on her journey from Venezuela to Iceland. During Reykjavík Pride (Hinsegin dagar) a new queen stepped on the stage. For many locals it may have seemed like an act that was just in town for the festivities, however it was none other than Crisartista, aka Rayner Milano. It was
- [First trans woman to be elected council speaker in Iceland: “I am very proud”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/first-trans-woman-to-be-elected-council-speaker-in-iceland-i-am-very-proud/) - Recently elected to the key position of Reykjavik City Council speaker, Alexandra Briem, member of the Pirate Party, became de facto the first trans woman to ever hold that position in Iceland. In an interview with GayIceland Alexandra shares in a very intimate way her inspiring political journey as a trans woman, what drove her
- [Learning from the past: A look at the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2023/learning-from-the-past-a-look-at-the-hiv-aids-epidemic-in-iceland/) - A PhD student in History working on a research paper on the AIDS epidemic in Iceland has made interesting findings. GayIceland speaks to Hafdís Erla Hafsteinsdóttir about her research and discoveries. The AIDS epidemic began more than 40 years ago and still continues to be something many of us can learn from today. HIV/AIDS remains
- [Being Real To Be Better At Pretend](https://gayiceland.is/2023/being-real-to-be-better-at-pretend/) - Arna Magnea Danks has worked behind the scenes in numerous films and television shows, primarily as a fight director and stunt coordinator and performer in such titles as Sense8, Game of Thrones, Trapped, and much more. She will soon be starring in a major acting role in the upcoming movie Ljósvíkingar, wherein she plays one
- [“I’ve never found a closet to come out of”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/ive-never-found-a-closet-to-come-out-of/) - Advocate, author, and educator Elísabet Kjárr Ólafsdóttir on living beyond stereotypes and labels. WARNING: this article contains a short mention of sexual violence. GayIceland chatted with Elísabet Ólafsdóttir about sexuality, BDSM culture, and sex education. When did you discover BDSM culture? “I’ve always been quite open with my sensual self, then when I realized what
- [The Cursed Circle](https://gayiceland.is/2023/the-cursed-circle/) - History doesn’t repeat, but it does rhyme. OPINION Andie Sophia Fontaine writes about how queerphobes recycle bigotry. The queer community in Iceland is in danger. While it’s true that the current rising tide of queerphobia in this country comes entirely from a very tiny group of people–and by tiny I do mean tiny, like maybe
- [How does it feel like to be queer and foreign in Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2023/what-does-it-feel-like-to-be-queer-and-foreign-in-iceland/) - Members of the queer community share their stories. From Fear to Freedom Leaving Poland and embracing Iceland was a turning point in my life. The difference between these two countries was striking – from facing homophobia to finding openmindedness. In Poland, being queer came with countless challenges. Same-sex marriage and partnerships are still illegal, inclusive
- [It’s Time to Come out of the Cave for Reykjavík Bear](https://gayiceland.is/2023/its-time-to-come-out-of-the-cave-for-reykjavik-bear/) - The city of Reykjavík is a hub for many different festivals throughout the year and when it comes to queer celebrations, the city still does a pretty good job of keeping up with its international counterparts. The Reykjavík Pride Festival is the largest LGBT event held in Iceland and happens over a week in August.
- [GayIceland celebrates 10 years: Queer rights and the current backlash](https://gayiceland.is/2023/gayiceland-celebrates-10-years-queer-rights-and-the-current-backlash/) - OPINION: Roald Eyvindsson, Editor-in-chief writes about GayIceland's 10th anniversary, queer rights and the backlash the queer community is currently facing in Iceland. This year marks ten years since GayIceland went live in its current form. From the beginning, we have focused on queer issues, through interviews, coverage, and news reporting. We have written about victories
- [The Right To Be Free](https://gayiceland.is/2023/the-right-to-be-free/) - Why Iceland’s conversion therapy ban is important. WARNING: This article contains mentions and descriptions of psychological and physical abuse. Last June, Iceland passed an historic law banning so-called “conversion therapy” in all its forms. Many people–including those who live in Iceland–have nonetheless asked why there is a need for this law in Iceland of all
- [Villi: “I’m finally at home”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/im-finally-at-home/) - Villi Ósk Vilhjálms chats about constantly coming out, exploring gender, and becoming the reigning drag queen of Iceland. Many know Villi as a pillar within the Icelandic queer community. For years they’ve been an integral part of all sorts of events big and small. Given all the work they’ve done as a part of Reykjavík
- [The Battle isn't Over for Reykjavík Pride](https://gayiceland.is/2023/the-battle-isnt-over-for-reykjavik-pride/) - It’s summer and with it comes the Pride season. It might not be as warm in Iceland as it is in other parts of Europe but sunshine or not, the city of Reykjavík is gearing up for pride. The Reykjavík Pride Festival is known as Hinsegin Dagar in Icelandic and has been a popular event
- [Queen of Hearts: Introducing the Haus of Heart](https://gayiceland.is/2023/queen-of-hearts-introducing-the-haus-of-heart/) - It’s 2054, RuPaul’s Drag Race season 547 is starting tonight. You hear the opening credits and the mini challenge begins. The camera work predicts who will sashay away and the pit crew are graying, but still kind of hot. If this drag is all you know, it’s time to start paying attention to your local
- [To Find A Way Forward Together](https://gayiceland.is/2023/to-find-a-way-forward-together/) - Sandra Ósk Eysteinsdóttir of Reykjavík Pride on why the Rainbow Conference matters. When many people think of Reykjavík Pride, they think of the family-friendly march that winds its way through downtown. For many of us in the queer community, this is a chance to band together and celebrate our existence and visibility. But there is
- [The Platform and The Stage: Danny Beard](https://gayiceland.is/2023/the-platform-and-the-stage-danny-beard/) - The outspoken drag performer talks about the art, trans allyship, and how to make it. To anyone who follows drag, Danny Beard is a legend. This performer and singer has been a larger than life presence in the British drag scene for around a decade now, having graced the stages of Britain’s Got Talent, won
- [Trans rock band DauÐnafn: “Trans people exist and are not going anywhere”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/trans-rock-band-daudnafn-trans-people-exist-and-are-not-going-anywhere/) - If there’s one thing the world needs right now, it’s another queer rock band. GayIceland's Yaz Duncan sits down with rock band, DauÐnafn, and talks about forming a queer creative space where politics and personal self expression collide. GayIceland: “DauÐnafn, that 's a great band name! Can you explain why you chose it and what
- [Reclaiming Freedom: Felix Bergsson On Why Trans Rights Matters To Him](https://gayiceland.is/2023/reclaiming-freedom-felix-bergsson-on-why-trans-rights-matters-to-him/) - Felix Bergsson is a beloved actor, writer, playwright and singer who has entertained Icelanders of all ages for decades on screen and stage alike. Internationally, he is probably best known as Iceland’s Head of Delegation at the Eurovision Song Contest. He has also been openly gay for decades–starting in times when it was far from
- [Meet the Icelandic Politician Seeking to Ban Conversion Therapy](https://gayiceland.is/2022/meet-the-icelandic-politician-seeking-to-ban-conversion-therapy/) - A member of Iceland’s Liberal Reform Party (Viðreisn) has presented parliament with a bill that she hopes will protect queer people from the devastating effects of practices that aren't based on scientific facts and are ‘morally wrong.’ For many queer people, the journey from childhood to adulthood is fraught with some incredible obstacles. As our
- [Vera is back - in time for summer!](https://gayiceland.is/2023/vera-is-back-in-time-for-summer/) - 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
- [“It’s time to take bold decisions”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/its-time-to-take-bold-decisions/) - Daníel E. Arnarsson, director of the National Queer Organization Samtökin ´78 and substitute MP recently departed the Left Green movement (Vinstri græn) as Iceland’s political landscape rapidly changes and immigrant rights are coming to the forefront. GayIceland speaks with Daníel about his decision, where the Left Green party is headed next, and the fight for
- [“Our community has come to a strong place”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/our-community-has-come-to-a-strong-place/) - GayIceland sits down with Álfur Birkir, chairperson of Iceland’s National Queer Organization Samtökin ‘78 . It's been a year since we last spoke, having recently been re-elected Álfur speaks to us about the challenge of tackling hate and about the top issues facing Iceland’s queer community. GayIceland: What are currently the top issues facing Iceland’s
- [“When hate speech is acceptable violence follows”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/when-hate-speech-is-acceptable-violence-follows/) - Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir on Oslo, hate speech, and her 21-point action plan for LGBTI rights. Despite many steps forward for LGBTI rights in Iceland, the community is now facing a backlash that some members say was expected. Many activists and leaders say we’re not doing enough to speak out and stand up for our
- [“There is an Infinite Amount of Strength in These Stories”](https://gayiceland.is/2023/there-is-an-infinite-amount-of-strength-in-these-stories/) - A new theatre piece explores the HIV/AIDS epidemic and its effects on the lives of Icelanders. Theatremaker, Eva Rún Snorradóttier says that she was shocked when she realised how little she knew about the topic and this spurred her to create something she hopes will encourage more conversations. It's essential that we remember and honour
- [“Can I say this is who I am?”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/can-i-say-this-is-who-i-am/) - Reykjavik City Councillor Sanna Magdalena Mörtudóttir on coming out, activism, and identity. Many know Sanna Magdalena for her work in advocacy and politics. Although she’s a relatively young politician, she’s established herself as a leader in the campaigns against racism and poverty in Iceland. However, what most people don’t know much about is a part
- [“Covid or not, four years is an unacceptable delay”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/covid-or-not-four-years-is-an-unacceptable-delay/) - Pirate Party member Andrés Ingi Jónsson says the government is falling behind other nations on queer healthcare. Parlimentarian Andrés Ingi Jónsson of the Pirate party is pushing forward points on the queer agenda, asking for receipts. In the past few months alone he’s pressed other lawmakers on issues like rapid tests for STIs and blood
- [Banned from swimming, emboldened against prejudice](https://gayiceland.is/2022/banned-from-swimming-emboldened-against-prejudice/) - With increased visibility trans community in Iceland faces backlash. The trans community in Iceland says they are facing blatant discrimination and transphobia following a decision by the Icelandic Swimming Association (Sundsamband Íslands, SSÍ) to forbid trans women from competing in elite swimming competitions. SSÍ voted to uphold the decision made by FINA, the world governing
- [Jono Duffy wants to know if you miss him yet](https://gayiceland.is/2022/jono-duffy-wants-to-know-if-you-miss-him-yet/) - Jonathan Duffy has a brand-new comedy show coming up at Tjarnarbíó on September 11th. GayIceland caught up with the award winning comedian to find out more. The title of your show is, Do you miss me yet?, but our question is, Do you miss us? “Every single day. I was in my 6th year of
- [Are we failing to protect queer youth from bullying and harassment?](https://gayiceland.is/2022/are-we-failing-to-protect-queer-youth-from-bullying-and-harassment/) - OPINION by Ugla Stefanía The last few weeks have been difficult to digest as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. At the moment it appears we are facing a backlash in Iceland, similar to many other places across the world. In our country, which is often described as a haven for queer people, we are
- [“No freedom for some of us, without liberation for all of us”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/no-freedom-for-some-of-us-without-liberation-for-all-of-us/) - OPINION by Ugla Stefanía It’s that time of year. Where we all bring out our favourite outfits, get our placards really, find solidarity with each other, attend events, celebrate, protest, enjoy, shout, feel. We come together as a community to remember how far we’ve come – and how far we still need to go. Never
- [“More than a party”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/reykjavik-bear-more-than-a-party/) - Come out of your caves, Reykjavík Bear is set to warm the grizzly out of you! There are many festivals Reykjavík is known for. Music lovers can have their fancies tickled with many different options throughout the year including festivals like Secret Solstice and Airwaves. Those who love art and theatre can get knees deep
- [Let’s get ready for a Queer Time - Reykjavík Pride Begins!](https://gayiceland.is/2022/lets-get-ready-for-a-queer-time-reykjavik-pride-begins/) - It’s summer in Reykjavík and although the weather might not be as balmy as it is in other parts of Europe the rainbows are still getting ready to take prominence over the one of the most northern capitals in the world. The Reykjavík Pride Festival (known as Hinsegin Dagar in Icelandic) has been a regular
- [Elska: Seven years of celebrating lives of queer men across the globe](https://gayiceland.is/2022/elska-seven-years-of-celebrating-lives-of-queer-men-across-the-globe/) - This month Elska Magazine celebrates its seven year anniversary. So far thirty-eight issues have been published, each dedicated to a different city and including a range of everyday gay, bi, trans, and queer men living in the targeted city. The goal is to let readers feel as if they’d travelled themselves to the city and
- [New safe space for queer youth well received: “Definitely a need for this”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/new-safe-space-for-queer-youth-well-received-definitely-a-need-for-this/) - In 2022, young people seem to be more in touch with the rich spectrum of life. They’re more ‘woke’, more concerned about the environment and more accepting of differences. For many older folk, they would probably assume that being a teenager today seems to be a wonderful experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Despite
- [New nonbinary project well received: “I’ve had responses from all over the world”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/new-nonbinary-project-well-received-ive-had-responses-from-people-all-over-the-world/) - Elías Rúni is a comic illustrator and artist from Reykjavik. They studied illustration and comics at various schools in Iceland and mainland Europe before creating artworks for Stundin newspaper, Amnesty International in Iceland, and Forlagið. Their newest project, Kvár, is a graduation project about being nonbinary. “I created Kvár as a graduation project from Iceland
- [“Unsafe sex has become a fad because of PrEP,” says health employee](https://gayiceland.is/2022/unsafe-sex-has-become-a-fad-because-of-prep-says-health-employee/) - As public health focuses on Covid-19, STIs run amok in Iceland. The past two years have put a huge strain on our healthcare system from the sheer number of patients with covid to massive staff shortages. Although the focus has shifted toward the most contagious virus affecting society, a few other contagions rage on. In
- [Health care for trans kids is live-saving](https://gayiceland.is/2022/heilbrigdisthjonusta-fyrir-trans-ungmenni-er-lifsbjorg/) - OPINION by Ugla Stefanía. Icelandic below. Yesterday an article by journalist Ingi Freyr Vilhjálmsson was published in Stundin, where life-saving services for trans youth is wrongfully described as “experimental”, and a doctor quoted that appears to have no expertise in that particular field, nor appears to have worked with trans youth and trans people in
- [“Society as a whole was hellish towards us”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/society-as-a-whole-was-hellish-towards-us/) - New chair of Samtökin ´78 says its maybe time for Iceland to apologize for behavior during the AIDs epidemic. Has Iceland really acknowledged and atoned for its behavior during the AIDs crisis? Approaching the topic with sensitivity, Álfur Birkir, the new chair of Samtökin '78, the queer organization of Iceland, ponders if Iceland and Samtökin
- [Will Gay Men in Iceland Finally Be Able to Donate Blood?](https://gayiceland.is/2022/will-gay-men-in-iceland-finally-be-able-to-donate-blood/) - Icelandic Parliament Approves the Prime Minister’s Plan to Change Blood Donation Rules. News site MBL has reported that changes to the regulations on blood donations in Iceland are on the way as part of Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir’s 19-point plan for the queer community. In their legislative session, Parliament approved a resolution on “aðgerðaáætlun í
- [Painting with “dirty” blood](https://gayiceland.is/2022/painting-with-dirty-blood/) - Icelandic photography school student uses a queer man’s blood to raise awareness surrounding the blood donation bias. In a provocative final assignment for her first year in The School of photography (Ljósmyndaskólinn) student Heiðrún Fivelstad has chosen to shine a light on blood donation laws in Iceland. The artwork, entitled “Skítugt Blóð” or “Dirty Blood,”
- [New queer social group - “We want to add some life to the scene!”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/new-queer-social-group-we-want-to-add-some-life-to-the-scene/) - Come out, come out wherever you are! A new queer social group set to spice up your social calendar. As we enter what feels like season 3 of ‘What’s going wrong today’ it seems like the regular pattern of staying at home, avoiding other people and just hoping for the best has become almost set
- [Trans rights: Two steps closer to progress](https://gayiceland.is/2021/trans-rights-two-steps-closer-to-progress/) - Trans rights are being attacked everywhere, but Iceland is fighting back with activism and legislation. Over the past decade, activism for trans rights, protections, and healthcare have gone into overdrive globally. More of the queer community is waking up to the discrimination the trans community is still facing, and those outside the community are as
- [Samtökin '78 looking for a new building](https://gayiceland.is/2022/samtokin-78-looking-for-a-new-building/) - Got a spare mansion laying around? Samtökin '78, the queer organization of Iceland, are looking for a new building. One of the biggest pressing issues facing the new chairperson is Samtökin’s 78 home. Over the past eight years or so since the organization moved into Suðurgata, they’ve been quickly running out of space. Álfur Birkir,
- [The Icelandic healthcare system needs a Queer Eye makeover](https://gayiceland.is/2022/the-icelandic-healthcare-system-needs-a-queer-eye-makeover/) - Álfur Birkir, the new chair person of Samtökin '78, the queer organization of Iceland, says the healthcare system in Iceland is in need of funding for queer programs. It’s a funny thing to say when the entire healthcare system is falling apart at the seams with staff shortages and a lack of funding in general.
- [Álfur Birkir’s vision for Samtökin ‘78: “We need to get to work”](https://gayiceland.is/2022/alfur-birkirs-vision-for-samtokin-78-we-need-to-get-to-work/) - The top issues facing Iceland’s National Queer Organization (Samtökin ‘78) and the queer community and how the new chair person of Samtökin '78 intends to tackle them. Elected recently as the chairperson of Iceland’s National Queer Organization (Samtökin ‘78), Álfur Birkir is ready to tackle the biggest problems of the day. From microaggressions to budding
- [“I just got tired of being put in the wrong box”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/i-just-got-tired-of-being-put-in-the-wrong-box/) - Jóhannes Þór Skúlason, managing director of the Icelandic Travel Industry Association and former advisor to a Prime Minister, on coming out as bisexual. Over a cup of coffee Jóhannes begins to tell me about his background and participating in a Samtökin ‘78 panel (The National queer organization of Iceland) of bisexual men. On the panel,
- [Vera - a new organization for queer women and non-binary people in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2021/vera-a-new-organization-for-queer-women-and-non-binary-people-in-iceland/) - In a post COVID world, connection and belonging are incredibly important, especially if you’re a member of the queer community. There have been many groups formed over the years within Iceland that help people to find their tribe, connect with like-minded individuals or even just have a conversation in a safe space. These kinds of
- [“Gay Death Squad” terrorizes minority groups in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2021/gay-death-squad-terrorizes-minority-groups-in-iceland/) - One victim of a self-titled Gay Death Squad says they’ve threatened him claiming “gays should be put in extermination camps” among other hateful comments on trans and disabled people in Iceland. Arnar Máni Ingólfsson, a young gay man living in the capital area of Iceland, has received calls, messages, and harassment from a person claiming
- [Editor of Elska Magazine: “It all started with a trip to Reykjavík”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/editor-of-elska-magazine-it-all-started-with-a-trip-to-reykjavik/) - Celebrating its 6th anniversary, Elska Magazine is a publication of photos and stories from models around the world. Each issue of this bi-monthly ‘bookazine’ is made in a different city and features intimate photos and personal stories from a range of regular local guys. Creator Liam Campbell started the project and says it’s meant to
- [“I’m not afraid to face these new challenges”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/im-not-afraid-to-face-these-new-challenges/) - One “young senior citizen” talking about queer rights is Viðar Eggertsson. An institution within the Icelandic theater scene for many years, Viðar is now headed into retirement and excited to change this narrative that spaces for the elderly can’t be queer. “Most of the people who founded Samtokin ‘78 are about to retire and are
- [“Myths and fantasies used to try to exclude trans people”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/myths-and-fantasies-used-to-try-to-exclude-trans-people/) - The Reykjavik City Council has issued and implemented some important guidelines with the aim of making the life of trans people easier in public spaces. Since the Gender Autonomy act was passed in 2019, anyone in Iceland can change their official gender registration according to their gender identity without having to undergo any medical treatment
- [Hosts of new podcast tell all](https://gayiceland.is/2021/hosts-of-new-podcast-tell-all/) - Geðslagið, or loosely translated The Temperment/The Mood, is a new podcast covering mental health, spirituality, and all around wellness from friends Sigursteinn Másson and Friðrik Agni, who are both members of the LGBTQI+ community in Iceland. In their show they dive into personal stories and share their own while reflecting on topics in a sincere
- [Pink Iceland is back in business](https://gayiceland.is/2021/pink-iceland-is-back-in-business/) - Pink Iceland is back in business offering their boutique wedding services to LGBTQ+ couples from around the world after a challenging year of COVID-19. At one point, owners of the company had to let everyone go—including themselves—and cross their fingers that a vaccine would bring an end to the toughest restrictions. “It was incredibly tough,”
- [A swan’s song for an iconic Icelandic drag night](https://gayiceland.is/2021/a-swans-song-for-an-iconic-icelandic-drag-night/) - Iceland is known for a lot of things. Volcanoes that stop Europe, The Northern Lights, Waterfalls, Björk, Sigur Rós and a whole bunch of other stuff. The fact is that this little island nation has been kicking goals in loads of arenas for years. Iceland has become a bit of a hub for a particular
- [“Books like these are important for all kids”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/books-like-these-are-important-for-all-kids/) - Hitting shelves this week are Morgunverkin (Early One Morning) and Háttatími (Bedtime, Not Playtime), two children’s books in Icelandic for all types of families. The books, which are a collaboration between Elīna Braslina and Lawrence Shimel, tell the story of queer families through amazing illustrations and fun anecdotes with pets. This Sunday at Samtökin ‘78,
- [Changing Generations](https://gayiceland.is/2021/changing-generations/) - Queer senior citizens are facing oppression inside retirement homes and the care system. GayIceland has chatted with Svandís Anna Sigurðardóttir and Viðar Eggertsson about the issues, being brave in the fight against aging, and what can be done to help. Yet the question still remains, why bother trying to make retirement homes more queer anyway?
- [“Be shocked, be outraged, but please also be inspired to do something”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/be-shocked-be-outraged-but-please-also-be-inspired-to-do-something/) - OPINION “I’m sad but I’m not shocked at all.” Jonathan Duffy writes about attacks members of the queer community in Iceland have been receiving. I no longer live in Iceland. I left over a year ago, but when I heard about the recent personal attacks members of the queer community had been receiving it made
- [“Although this is my story, this is also the story of us all”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/although-this-is-my-story-this-is-also-the-story-of-us-all/) - Opening this week at the National Theater is Góðan Daginn Faggi (Good Day, Fag), a one man show from thespian Bjarni Snæbjörnsson. Described as an autobiographical one man musical, Góðan Daginn Faggi will premiere at Þjóðleikhúsið. In a Facebook post about the show’s creation Bjarni says the idea for the show came from a collection
- [“We will not be put back in any closets”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/we-will-not-be-put-back-in-any-closets/) - The generation that was on the forefront of the fight queer rights is now retiring. But are the healthcare and retirement home systems ready for them? When most people think of queer activism, they think of the forefront of LGBTQ+ issues and see young activists demanding change. Not many look to aging seniors and see
- [New organization intends to bring the West region’s queer community together](https://gayiceland.is/2021/new-organization-intends-to-bring-the-west-regions-queer-community-together/) - A brand new LGBTQAI+ festival, Hinseginhátið Vesturlands, is taking place in Borgarnes, in the western part of Iceland, starting yesterday and continuing until tomorrow. GayIceland reached out to the organizers of the festival, Hinsegin Vesturland, or Queer West, to find out more about this new organization for LGBTQAI+ people in the west of the country.
- [Bear Festival opens today with international attendees](https://gayiceland.is/2021/bear-festival-opens-today-with-international-attendees/) - Back out of hibernation, these boys are ready to socailize Back again with their warm hospitality and inventive parties, Bangsafélagið (the Bear Association of Iceland) kicks off their schedule for the Reykjavik Bear fesitval today with an opening party at Hurra. Starting at 19:30 and going until the covid rules shut the bar down, anyone
- [“Heartwarming to see Bruce be embraced the way he has been”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/heartwarming-to-see-bruce-be-embraced-the-way-he-has-been/) - The LGBT+ webcomic Bruce the Angry Bear celebrates its fifth anniversary at the Hafnarfjörður public library during Reykjavík Pride. Bruce the Angry Bear is a collaborative project between Australian comedian Jono Duffy (who’s gay but can’t draw) and the Icelandic illustrator Einar V. Másson (who’s not gay but can draw). During Pride Einar will host
- [Reykjavik Pride continues despite Covid challenges](https://gayiceland.is/2021/reykjavik-pride-continues-despite-covid-challenges/) - A festival with no parade is still a festival says chair of Reykjavík Pride. “We are set on making Reykjavik Pride the most amazing festival we can within the set restrictions.” Hinsegin dagar (Reykjavik Pride) began yesterday with a splash of paint downtown. The festival, which was officially cancelled in 2020 due to gathering restrictions,
- [Hungarian anti-LGBT+ law targets work by writer popular in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2021/hungarian-anti-lgbt-law-targets-work-by-writer-popular-in-iceland/) - A bookstore chain in Hungary, Lira Konyv has been fined 250,000 forints (around 102.000 ISK) for selling a children’s book (originally written as two books) by writer Lawrence Schimel, Micsoda család!, that depicts families headed by same-sex parents. The reason given for the fine was that the bookstore broke consumer protection rules by failing to
- [“I have a responsibility to take” - Elínborg Harpa on fighting the system](https://gayiceland.is/2021/i-have-a-responsibility-to-take-elinborg-harpa-on-fighting-the-system-and-finding-their-true-self/) - It was two years ago during Reykjavík Pride that Elín­borg Harpa Önundar­dóttir was arrested, which Elínborg believes was because of their involvement in protests in solidarity with people seeking asylum in Iceland and against deportations. Now, they have been found guilty of disobeying police orders and have been sentenced to a two month probationary prison
- [Minister for Foreign Affairs: “Deeply concerned by the anti-LGBTI law” in Hungary](https://gayiceland.is/2021/minister-for-foreign-affairs-deeply-concerned-by-the-anti-lgbti-law-in-hungary/) - Many world leaders have reacted strongly against a Hungarian law that bans the depiction or promotion of homosexuality to those under 18. Late last year, another parliament in effect banned same-sex couples in the country from adopting children, by saying only married couples could adopt, with so exceptions. Previously Hungary ended legal recognition for trans
- [Iceland should condemn Hungary's new anti-LGBTQAI law](https://gayiceland.is/2021/iceland-should-condemn-hungarys-new-anti-lgbtqai-law/) - There is growing international condemnation of a Hungarian law that bans the depiction or promotion of homosexuality to those under 18. The measure taken by the Hungarian government has been widely criticized across Europe and has angered human rights groups. Þorbjörg Þorvaldsdóttir, chair of Samtökin '78, The National Queer Organization of Iceland, is of the
- [Queer youth center in Reykjavík: “A safe space for queer teenagers”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/queer-youth-center-in-reykjavik-a-safe-space-for-queer-teenagers/) - Recently a national conversation on bullying brought to light that homophobic bullying is sadly still a thing in Iceland and a recent survey shows that one-third of LGBT+ youth feel unsafe at school in the country. Hrefna Þórarinsdóttir explains why safe spaces for queer youth are vital and tells the story, goals and challenges of
- [The Inside Scoop on Everything Fringe](https://gayiceland.is/2021/the-inside-scoop-on-everything-fringe/) - Bigger and saucier than ever, Reykjavik’s fringe artists return to the stage. ´Tis the season for strip teases, stand up comedy, drag queens, and a little bit of circus; Reykjavik Fringe is back! Opening today, Saturday, July 3rd, Reykjavik Fringe Festival promises to be the biggest exhibition of arts and culture since before the plague.
- [“Homophobia and aggression towards LGBTQ+ children thrive in silence”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/homophobia-and-aggression-towards-lgbtq-children-thrive-in-silence/) - Have you ever been called a fag or a dyke in your schoolyard when you were a kid, bullied in the lockers or on your way back home because you were not quite as masc or fem as you were expected to be and wish you would never have to go back to school after
- [All names in Iceland are technically gender neutral — Yes, even yours](https://gayiceland.is/2021/all-names-in-iceland-are-technically-gender-neutral-yes-even-yours/) - OPINION Ugla questions the need to continue dividing Icelandic names into male, female and gender neutral. Iceland is quite funny with names. In Iceland, there is a specific naming committee, called Mannanafnanefnd. This committee is responsible for keeping a list of approved names that people are allowed to name their children. People are only allowed
- [Never before seen footage from Svona fólk now available](https://gayiceland.is/2021/never-before-seen-footage-from-svona-folk-now-available/) - Full length material from the documentary series Svona Fólk available online. The 2019 documentary series Svona Fólk detailed the fight for queer rights in Iceland and told the stories of countless LGBT+ Icelanders. Hrafnhildur Gunnarsdóttir, the creator of the series, is now adding the full length interview material online with new and never before seen
- [Patrekur Jaime: Iceland’s Addiction](https://gayiceland.is/2021/patrekur-jaime-icelands-addiction/) - The reality TV star and social media personality from Akureyri tells all. Finishing the second season of Æði, a reality TV show starring himself as lead, Patrekur Jaime has grown from social media influencer to pop culture personality. The show follows Patrekur and his friends Bassi Maraj and Binni Glee. It shows what life is
- [“I’m fucking terrified”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/im-fucking-terrified/) - Gay comedian Jonathan Duffy has a new comedy show coming up, ‘Jono Duffy, Nothing to Lose’, that premiers June 22. “It’s called ‘Jono Duffy, Nothing to Lose’ cause I’m unemployed, have no friends and I got nothing to lose, ” Jonathan says with a grin on his face, when asked about the title of the
- [Do you have what it takes to be queen of the universe?](https://gayiceland.is/2021/do-you-have-what-it-takes-to-be-queen-of-the-universe/) - Casting call for international drag queen singing competition begins. Hot off the press, a US based casting agency is looking for the best and most talented international drag performers for a new TV show. The casting call is out now, and you can sign up! World of Wonder, the production company behind the Emmy award
- [New books on queer women - “There are many stories not being told”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/new-books-on-queer-women-there-are-many-stories-not-being-told/) - New queer novels shed light on life in the closet and violence in a relationship between two women. “There are many stories not being told,” say fellow authors Sólveig Johnsen and Anna Stína Gunnarsdóttir who have just released their first solo novels. GayIceland met up with Sólveig and Anna to talk about their brand new
- [“You’re a beautiful human being, and you deserve love and respect”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/youre-a-beautiful-human-being-and-you-deserve-love-and-respect/) - Chair of the board for Samtökin ‘78 Þorbjörg Þorvaldsdóttir believes awareness in schools and more proactive parenting can help combat bullying. “In general it comes down to kids not having the social skills yet developmentally and not having good role models. Their sense of compassion and empathy is developing, but they’re trying their best to
- [The Dilemma of Páll Óskar and Digital Sexual Violence](https://gayiceland.is/2021/the-dilemma-of-pall-oskar-and-digital-sexual-violence/) - OPINION By Jono Duffy Ok, so if you haven’t heard the news because you aren’t completely fluent in Icelandic, or have been too busy watching volcano porn I can break it down for you. Openly gay Icelandic superstar, Páll Óskar, sent consensual images of himself to a guy on Grindr. The guy he sent the
- [Freshly Printed LGBT+ Stories](https://gayiceland.is/2021/freshly-printed-lgbt-stories/) - New to book publishing, Hringaná Book Publishers translates queer stories for an Icelandic audience. Around two years ago Ari Blöndal Eggertsson left his long-time job as a manager of Vínbuðin, Iceland’s liquor store, and was looking for a new project. “I had enough of that, and needed something new,” says Ari. Surrounded by literature and
- [Coming Out Of Hibernation](https://gayiceland.is/2021/coming-out-of-hibernation/) - The Bear Association of Iceland Hosts Bear Party Night at Gaukurinn. After nearly 7 months of inactivity because of covid, Bangsafélagið, the Bear Association of Iceland, is coming out of hibernation. The group last got together during Reykjavik Pride in August of 2020, another low period for cases between Iceland’s first and second waves. With
- [“We were treated like we were less than others”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/we-were-treated-like-we-were-less-than-others/) - Icelanders may recognize Einar Þór Jónsson for his advocacy about LGBTQI+ issues as the executive director of HIV Iceland and the chairman of the national mental health association. Now, his extraordinary life story is available for everyone to read in the book Berskjaldaður by journalist Gunnhildur Arna Gunnarsdóttir. The two met a couple years ago
- [“God is queer, just as God is straight, trans or cis”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/god-is-queer-just-as-god-is-straight-trans-or-cis/) - Only in Iceland: a bisexual priest accidentally outs himself on TikTok and couldn’t be happier about it. After centuries if not millennia of harsh condemnation and repression, you might think that religion and sexual or gender difference don’t mix well. And truly, it’s blatantly obvious that in most cases you wouldn’t be wrong. But in
- [“What Are You Doing? Kimi Tayler: I’m Building A Fort!”](https://gayiceland.is/2021/what-are-you-doing-kimi-tayler-im-building-a-fort/) - Lofty Ambitions Comedy Opens At Loft Hostel. On a late winter Thursday, a crowd sits awaiting a comedy show about to start. How strange it is to be in a crowded room sitting in the audience of a show. Everyone around has their masks off and is drinking beer. It’s certainly not something most of
- [Iceland to compete for the first time in Eurovision-style drag contest](https://gayiceland.is/2021/iceland-to-compete-for-the-first-time-in-eurovision-drag-contest/) - Icelandic-born drag performer HANS has been chosen to represent Iceland in the first Eurovision-style television show, made exclusively for drag artists. Previously named Drag King of Iceland in 2019, HANS is set to appear in the show, named EuroDrag hosted by Drag Race stars Janey Jack and Sedergine. The contestants will perform in front of
- [Why I won’t say I’m queer](https://gayiceland.is/2021/why-i-wont-say-im-queer/) - OPINION by Yaz Duncan In recent years affirmative use of the word ‘queer’ by members of the LGBT+ community and their allies has caused significant debate. The term, once a slur, is being reclaimed mostly by younger generations of non-hetereosexual people as a catch all term and one that provides room for movement, incorporating the
- [Inauguration Day USA: Progress Begins Again For The LGBT+ Community](https://gayiceland.is/2021/inauguration-day-usa-progress-begins-again-for-the-lgbt-community/) - Stories from Americans Living in Iceland, Feeling Relieved. Since the time I moved to Iceland my experience as a member of the LGBT+ community has been a tale of two roads. On one side, I moved away from the US just as Trump was taking his oath of office. I was happy to be leaving
- [Get Swimming with LGBT+ Sports Club Styrmir](https://gayiceland.is/2021/get-swimming-with-styrmir-sports-club/) - Queer Sports Team Reboots with Swim Practices. It’s January, which means everyone is thinking of dropping all the kilos of salted pork we gained during the last month and getting back on a treadmill. Luckily, there are a few options for exercising with members of the queer community here in Reykavik. Group classes of 20
- [A story of queer life in Reykjavik and Berlin](https://gayiceland.is/2021/a-story-of-queer-life-in-reykjavik-and-berlin/) - Norms Web Series Premiers at Reykjavik Feminist Film Festival. Premiering Thursday, January 14th at the Reykjavik Feminist Film Festival, is Norms, a queer web series starring Marta Sveinbjörnsdóttir as Sara, a 29-year-old Icelandic woman who’s flawed yet lovable personality gets her into trouble. An edgy mix of comedy and drama, Norms aims to show what
- [Making life better for trans people and intersex people in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2021/making-life-better-for-trans-people-and-intersex-people-in-iceland/) - OPINION Amongst the horror that was 2020, many people probably think there is little to celebrate. It was a pretty shit year, right? But even amongst all that, within Netflix binges, baking experiments, half-dressed-for-zoom-calls and an obscene amount of houseplant purchases, there were definitely some positive things that happened. One of the biggest achievements, in
- [“Being queer and not hiding it takes enormous bravery”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/being-queer-and-not-hiding-it-takes-enormous-bravery/) - Musician Daniel Oliver opens up about being bullied and how he had to fight that to become the person he is today. In a Facebook post Daniel Oliver, one of Iceland’s Eurovision stars, opened up about the bullying he faced as a child and how it’s still affecting him today. His status, which shared yet
- [“It’s like watching paint dry” - Icelandic Drag Community Opens the Library on RuPaul](https://gayiceland.is/2021/its-like-watching-paint-dry-icelandic-drag-community-opens-the-library-on-rupaul/) - Headed into its 13th season and 2nd season in the UK, fans are asking the question: is RuPaul’s Drag Race overrated? Premiering yesterday, January 1st, 2021, the Emmy award-winning reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race will kick off its 13th season. Two weeks later on the 14th of January, the UK will have its second
- [“There was a lot of homophobic bullying”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/there-was-a-lot-of-homophobic-bullying/) - Alda Villiljós talks about being bullied and how therapy and really communicating with their past self has helped them reconcile their inner child with who they are today. In a facebook post of their own, Alda Villiljós recounted stories of bullying that’s still affecting them to this day. Alda has been a community leader and
- [Outrageous drag queen Heklina spills her guts: “I see very little originality happening in drag”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/outrageous-drag-queen-heklina-spills-her-guts-i-see-very-little-originality-happening-in-drag/) - Dedicated drag fans will know Heklina, the American-Icelandic drag queen who’s been making waves with her daring and entertaining performances for decades. GayIceland caught up with her in August, when she was supposed to perform at Reykjavik Pride. Heklina is a mainstay of San Francisco’s drag community, but she also has strong ties to Iceland.
- [Tonight: Iceland’s first online drag show!](https://gayiceland.is/2020/tonight-icelands-first-online-drag-show/) - Tonight at 9 on Twitch Drag-Súgur will be streaming the first ever online drag show in Iceland. Do not, under any circumstances, miss this opportunity to catch up with your favorite, self-isolating kings and queens. Speaking of catching up: a few hours before the show, Sigurður Guðjónsson (Gógó Starr) tells us how he and his
- [Óliver is far from alone - A national conversation on bullying and queer stories of bravery](https://gayiceland.is/2020/oliver-is-far-from-alone-a-national-conversation-on-bullying-and-queer-stories-of-bravery/) - Over the course of the past month, a national conversation on bullying has brought to light personal stories from across Iceland. Celebrities and Facebook groupers alike have been bringing up the topic of bullying and its long term effects through heartfelt and private tales of their childhood years being bullied. The “trend” all began with
- [Queer Life in the Icelandic Countryside](https://gayiceland.is/2020/queer-life-in-the-icelandic-countryside/) - For one couple it’s a celebration of support and love, despite any haters online At the end of August social media changed for Pálína Axelsdóttir Njarðvík. Without much explanation, she lost a few hundred followers at once. Her page, @FarmLifeIceland on Instagram, had over 40.000 followers until she posted an anniversary photo with her girlfriend
- [New book celebrates diversity: “We are all different, so just be yourself”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/new-book-celebrates-diversity-we-are-all-different-so-just-be-yourself/) - A new children's book, Be yourself, for overcoming stereotypes and being truly you In the queer community it’s often easy for us to say we’re being ourselves, “living our truth” or letting our “rainbow flag fly.” However, it gets a bit trickier when it comes to everyone else around us, our children, and the messages
- [One-third of LGBT+ youth feel unsafe at school in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2020/one-third-of-lgbt-youth-feel-unsafe-at-school/) - Survey results show progress still needs to be made in schools for the next generation of LGBT+ Icelanders. Although Iceland appears to be a progressive country that’s safe for the LGBT+ community to live in, it still has a lot of work to do before it can call itself a utopia of equality. A study
- [Planning a rainbow family in The Faroe Islands](https://gayiceland.is/2020/planning-a-rainbow-family-in-the-faroe-islands/) - While most of the world continues to grapple with questions of masks, hand sanitizer, and social distancing, Scott and Snorri Danielson are busy with questions of car seats, baby blankets, and parental leave. The Faroese couple are preparing to have a baby, and their excitement is palpable. “We just had the 3D scan,” Scott says.
- [Capturing the faces, bodies and voices of queer men](https://gayiceland.is/2020/capturing-the-faces-bodies-and-voices-of-local-queer-men/) - Launched in 2015, Elska Magazine is still going strong. For five years now, each issue of this ‘sexy anthropology journal’ takes us to a different city in the world and captures the faces, bodies and voices of local queer men in all their glorious diversity. By now Liam Campbell, the father of Elska, has traveled
- [Stone Butch, but not Blue: Interview with a proud Truck Dyke](https://gayiceland.is/2020/stone-butch-but-not-blue-interview-with-a-proud-truck-dyke/) - Kristín Jóhanns recently came out as a butch lesbian and explains to GayIceand what that means to her and the journey that she has been on with her identity. The butch/femme dichotomy (or dyke-chotomy, sorry not sorry) has long been pervasive within the culture of lesbians and queer women. However, ‘butch’ lesbians or those women
- [Polish Stonewall? Are we fed up enough?](https://gayiceland.is/2020/polish-stonewall-are-we-fed-up-enough/) - OPINION Recent events in Poland are a signal that the LGBTQ+ community no longer wants to be a whipping boy. The one who is afraid to stand up to his classmates beating him, because there is ten of them, and he is just by himself. Tired, frustrated, angry and desperate, driven by years of humiliation,
- [Kimi Tayler speaks out about sexual violence: “If you weren’t a lesbian I would rape you”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/kimi-tayler-speaks-out-about-sexual-harassment-if-you-werent-a-lesbian-i-would-rape-you/) - OPINION Sexually harassing or undermining your colleagues is not “just jokes” or “roasting”. It wouldn’t be acceptable in any other work place so why is it acceptable at comedy nights and clubs, asks comedian Kimi Tayler. So I get extremely anxious about sharing anything that isn’t promotional on social media these days..to be honest I
- [A trans woman on the cover of one of Iceland’s oldest magazines for the first time ever](https://gayiceland.is/2020/a-trans-woman-on-the-cover-of-icelands-oldest-magazine-for-the-first-time-ever/) - For the first time in its 80 years history the Icelandic women’s magazine Vikan has put a trans woman on its cover as Snædís Yrja grazes the cover of the magazine’s latest issue, published this week. GayIceland got in touch with Vikan’s editor in chief, Steingerður Steinarsdóttir, to discuss the magazine and the cover story.
- [“Inclusion starts with an attitude” - Ways to step up as an ally to non-binary people](https://gayiceland.is/2020/inclusion-starts-with-an-attitude-ways-to-step-up-as-an-ally-to-non-binary-people/) - OPINION Viima Lampinen on how to be respectful and supportive towards non-binary people. Hello everyone! To whom it may concern aka welcome my very short TED talk dear distinguished guests. Today is #InternationalNonBinaryDay. Today is a therefore great day to try to use more (non-binary) inclusive language. When you meet someone who is a parent,
- [Reykjavík’s Queer Bars Open Again](https://gayiceland.is/2020/reykjaviks-queer-bars-open-again/) - Renovated Kiki Queer Bar and Gaukurinn Welcome Guests Again. Since the government-mandated closing of all bars in mid-March, many establishments have had their doors shuttered. When the gathering bans went into effect and social distancing became the new norm, bars and clubs were the first to close. After all, it is difficult to maintain the
- [Jono Duffy at a Crossroads in Life: “There’s a lot of things I’m questioning”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/jono-duffy-at-a-crossroads-in-life-theres-a-lot-of-things-im-questioning/) - On July 8th & 11th at Tjarnarbíó come and laugh at Jono Duffy’s existential crisis in what might very well be his last comedy show (according to his currently depressed self): ‘I’m Tired’. Be reassured: that wouldn’t make you a terrible human being. In fact ‘you would be the best person in the world’, Jono
- [“You have nothing to fear from people like me” - An open letter to J.K. Rowling](https://gayiceland.is/2020/open-letter-to-j-k-rowling/) - Ugla Stefanía, a.k.a. Owl Fisher, writes an open letter to author J.K. Rowling. Dear Jo, I wanted to take this time to write to you about your comments and stance on transgender people. But before I get into that I wanted to show solidarity with you regarding the domestic abuse you have suffered. As a
- [“Bisexual women most likely to experience domestic abuse”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/bisexual-women-most-likely-to-experience-domestic-abuse/) - The City of Reykjavík released a pamphlet about domestic violence in queer relationships. The pamphlet, released by the city’s Human Rights office, is meant to help LGBTQI+ people who may be affected by domestic violence as well as to educate domestic violence service providers on the specifics of queer relationships. “We need to start talking
- [Queer Icelanders Cope with COVID-19: “You have to ask for help”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/queer-icelanders-cope-with-covid-19-you-have-to-ask-for-help/) - Across Iceland, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay home and practice physical distancing to prevent the spread of the virus. For the queer community, this means that important community networks and connections have had to adapt to this new reality. GayIceland speaks with queer Icelanders about how they are coping with the isolation.
- [A gay guide to swimming pools in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2020/a-gay-mans-guide-to-swimming-pools-in-iceland/) - A new book from the editor of gay magazine Elska, that has brought us the stories of men from across the globe, in photos and writing. Imagine going on a winter trip around Iceland with a friend. Or better still: a gay friend, who happens to be a photographer and a writer. You have all
- [Challenges politicians to improve situation of queer people in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2020/president-of-samtokin-78-challenges-politicians-to-improve-situation-of-queer-people-in-iceland/) - The ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map and Index 2020 has been published and Iceland moves up from last year, from 18th place to 14th. Each year since 2009, ILGA-Europe ranks 49 countries in Europe in regards to queer rights. While the latest report shows that, sadly, there has been no positive change in 49% of countries in
- [Coping with COVID-19: “This fear is going to affect us all”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/queer-icelanders-cope-with-covid-19-this-fear-is-going-to-affect-us-all/) - Across Iceland, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay home and practice physical distancing to prevent the spread of the virus. For the queer community, this means that important community networks and connections have had to adapt to this new reality. GayIceland speaks with queer Icelanders about how they are coping with the isolation.
- [This Is The Content We Need Right Now](https://gayiceland.is/2020/this-is-the-content-we-need-right-now/) - Sigga Eir is here with Saturday morning Sing-A-Longs to help queer families through social distancing. GayIceland chatted with Sigga about her project and about queer parenthood. Do you identify with any of the following letters? L. G. B. T. Q. Q. I. P. 2. S. A. A. - Wait, Michael, what is that 2 doing
- [“Crapapella” Is Here to Save Us All](https://gayiceland.is/2020/crapapella-is-here-to-save-us-all/) - Comedians Jono Duffy and Kimi Tayler have cooked up a new video series to get us through these tough times. If you’re done watching all the Tiger King episodes and looking through all of the memes related to it, you might be in the mood for some new comedic entertainment. These quaren-times have certainly shaken
- [Coping with COVID-19: “Waiting for news from home is terrible”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/coping-with-covid-19-waiting-for-news-from-home-is-terrible/) - Across Iceland, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to stay home and practice physical distancing to prevent the spread of the virus. For the queer community, this means that important community networks and connections have had to adapt to this new reality. GayIceland speaks with queer people in Iceland about how they are coping with
- [“I have a lot of fire in me” - Andrean on Russia, Eurovision and his life beyond Hatari](https://gayiceland.is/2019/i-have-a-lot-of-fire-in-me-hataris-andrean-on-russia-eurovision-and-his-life-beyond-hatari/) - After bringing their anti-capitalist BDSM techno music and performance art to Eurovision earlier this year, Hatari again made international headlines last month when one of their dancers opened up an enormous pair of rainbow wings during the band’s show in Moscow, Russia. Andrean Sigurgeirsson, a choreographer and dancer with Hatari, unveiled the rainbow wings during
- [A new database that will make queer women ‘harder to ignore’](https://gayiceland.is/2020/a-new-database-that-will-make-queer-women-hard-to-ignore/) - Back in 2017, GayIceland reported that a new database on the history of queer women in Iceland before 1960 was in the making. The wait is over. Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir, Hafdís Erla Hafsteinsdóttir and Íris Ellenberger have now launched Iceland’s, and possibly the world’s, first database on queer women and thier lives. The database is
- [Queer solidarity in challenging times](https://gayiceland.is/2020/queer-solidarity-in-challenging-times/) - OPINION President of Samtökin ‘78, The National Queer Organization of Iceland, writes about the challanges queer people are facing because of the COVID-19 epidemic. Times of uncertainty, such as the one we are now experiencing, affect queer people like everyone else. However, there are certain aspects of our experience that are unique. It is therefore
- [Kiki queer bar closes temporarily due to COVID-19](https://gayiceland.is/2020/kiki-closes-due-to-covid-19/) - One of Reykjavík's most popular hangouts for LGBT+ people, Kiki queer bar, on Laugavegur 22, has closed temporarily due to the spread of COVID-19 in Iceland. Manager Árni Grétar Jóhannsson says safety is the key word to all of this. COVID-19 is still spreading in Iceland according to recent reports. The public gatherings ban took
- [How COVID-19 is affecting queer lives](https://gayiceland.is/2020/how-covid-19-is-affecting-queer-lives/) - Ugla Stefanía on the effects the corona-virus pandemic has on queer lives. OPINION As a self-declared hermit and introvert, the government advising people to stay at home couldn’t actually have been better news for me. While I definitely enjoy going to events, meeting people, speaking publicly and so on, I honestly cannot think of anything
- [GayIceland’s new assistant editor: “Everyone has a story”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/everyone-has-a-story/) - Meet Tótla I. Sæmundsdóttir, GayIceland’s new assistant editor. GayIceland proudly presents it’s new assistant editor, Tótla Sæmundsdóttir, who will work closely with our chief editor and says she hopes to contribute to making GayIceland even greater than it already is. But who is she and what is her story? We got in touch with Tótla
- [“To be allowed to be queer in Portugal is still a privilege”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/to-be-allowed-to-be-queer-in-portugal-is-still-a-privilege/) - Coming up tonight, Thursday evening, at Gaukurinn bar, Fado Bicha will subvert a traditional Portuguese music genre to express a moving perspective on queer identities and experiences in a deeply poetic – yet fiercely activist – show. Be prepared as Lila (singer, writer) and João (instrumentalist, arranger) vow to take you on the craziest emotional
- [The Right To Bodily Integrity for Intersex People Must Be Respected](https://gayiceland.is/2020/the-right-to-bodily-integrity-for-intersex-people-must-be-respected/) - OPINION BY UGLA STEFANÍA 2020 is here. Roughly seven months ago one of the most monumental law about trans and intersex rights was passed in the Icelandic parliament. While the people behind the law were adamant on the law ensuring the rights of transgender and intersex people alike, the parliament made changes to the law, effectively
- [Host of documentary on trans youth: “Children today are so far ahead of us”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/host-of-new-trans-documentary-children-today-are-so-far-ahead-of-us/) - Trans Children (Trans börn) is a documentary in three episodes that’s currently being shown on Icelandic TV channel Stöð 2 (Channel 2). In the documentary Sigrún Ósk Kristjánsdóttir follows four families of trans children for two years and the viewer gets to know their joys, sorrows and challenges during that time. The idea is not
- [Rainbow Reykjavík begins - “Probably the best so far”](https://gayiceland.is/2020/rainbow-reykjavik-starts-today-this-years-festival-will-probably-be-the-best-so-far/) - Iceland’s winter LGBT festival commences today, with a program full of exciting events. Iceland is definitely not like the other girls: not content with holding its Pride Parade in August while almost every other country in the world marches in June, Iceland has actually another Pride event in winter – although much more intimate than
- [New Men-Only Club to Open in Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2020/new-men-only-club-to-open-in-reykjavik/) - “No Name - Boys Club” set to be the only space exclusively for boys to have some fun! Whether you feel it or not, Reykjavík is overflowing with queer-owned spaces to congregate. Of course, there’s the classic Kiki Queer Bar for dancing the night away to Robin and Cher. There’s Guakurinn for LGBT comedy nights
- [Bears on Ice becomes Reykjavík Bear](https://gayiceland.is/2020/bears-on-ice-becomes-reykjavik-bear/) - Last year saw the very last edition of the 15-year-old bear event Bears on Ice which attracted each year since 2005 many hirsute gents from all over Iceland and beyond. 2020 however will be the birth year of its spiritual child, Reykjavík Bear. From September 3 to 6, Reykjavík Bear will carry on and build
- [New LGBT+ organization: ”We'll be there for anyone who needs us”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/founder-of-new-lgbt-organization-well-be-there-for-anyone-who-needs-us/) - While there seems to be no shortage of LGBT+ social networks and support groups in Iceland, Reykjavik undoubtedly polarizes most initiatives. Moving back to her hometown in East Iceland after spending years in the capital city, 42-years old Jódís Skúla wished to change that and created Hinsegin Austurland. Allegedly first of its kind in East
- [“RuPaul told me to embrace what I can't do”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/rupaul-told-me-to-embrace-what-i-cant-do/) - Ólafur Helgi Ólafsson has been performing as Starina in Iceland’s drag scene for years. He won the Drag Queen of Iceland award in 2003, making waves as the first drag queen with a physical disability to win the award and instantly becoming one of the most visible drag performers in the country. After a few
- [Drag-Súgur the Musical](https://gayiceland.is/2020/drag-sugur-the-musical/) - 🎵Guys in short dresses and girls with moustaches...🎵 Would you expect anything else from this talented group of drag queens and kings?Drag-Súgur is back at again with an amazing show set for tonight, Saturday, January 11th at 21.30! What kind of musical is this, you ask? We chatted with Gógó Starr (Sigurður Guðjónsson) & Bóbó
- [Two Icelandic mothers battle with Swedish courts](https://gayiceland.is/2019/two-icelandic-mothers-battle-with-swedish-courts/) - Sweden is often thought of as a beacon of equality and a utopia of fairness and common sense. But for Icelandic married couple, Kristrún Stefánsdóttir and Inga Ósk Pétursdóttir this has not been their experience. The pair met and married in Iceland and had been living as a family with their child, that Inga gave
- [Sherry Vine returns to Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2019/sherry-vine-returns-to-reykjavik/) - “Hooker Barbie” is back in Iceland to say farewell to Gloria Hole You may know Sherry Vine from her first performance in Iceland with Alaska Thunderfuck 5000 and Jackie Beat at Gamla Bíó, called “Just Another Drag Show or Whatever.” Or maybe you caught her opening for Bianca Del Rio at Harpa this August on
- [Styrmir Sportsclub is back: A platform to meet and have fun with other queer people](https://gayiceland.is/2019/styrmir-sportsclub-is-back-a-platform-to-meet-and-have-fun-with-other-queer-people/) - The renowneed queer sportsclub Styrmir has been in hibernation for a while, but now it’s started up again and it’s temporary football coach, Pétur Björgvin Sveinsson, is determined to bring Styrmir to it’s former glory. For that to be possible he urges every queer person who’s even remotely interested in football to show up at
- [A gay man to his 15 year old self: “You will lose everything - but you will change things”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/a-gay-man-to-his-15-year-old-self-you-will-lose-everything-but-you-will-change-things/) - The well known Icelandic singer/songwriter, actor and stage director Hörður Torfason, who is one of the founders of today's National Queer Organization Samtökin ´78, writes a letter to his 15 year old self about the unexpected turns his life will take. Reykjavík 2019. “Dear Hörður. I am addressing you when you are fifteen years old,
- [Gógó Starr: “This birthday show is going to be something!”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/gogo-starr-this-show-is-going-to-be-something/) - Four years ago, Drag-Súgur sprouted out of the minds of the newly crowned Drag Queen of Iceland, Gógó Starr, and a couple of other performers and flowered on the stage of Gaukurinn, where it has been thriving ever since. Tonight at 9.30, same place, Gógó and many other performers will be at it again in
- [Coming out as HIV Positive](https://gayiceland.is/2019/coming-out-as-hiv-positive/) - Recently celebrity Jonathan Van Ness has come out to fight the stigma of being HIV positive. GayIceland's Yaz Duncan talks to Einar Thor Jonsson, Director of HIV Iceland, about the star's decision and its impact. This year 11th October marked ‘Coming Out Day’, a day to celebrate and encourage people in the LGBTQ+ community to
- [From the front lines: The war on American trans and non-binary people](https://gayiceland.is/2019/from-the-front-lines-the-war-on-american-trans-and-non-binary-people/) - OPINION It’s fair to say that it’s been a rough few weeks for the LGBTQ community in the US. We have been under fire since the 2016 Election, and it is now clear that an all out war has been declared, with the top casualties being trans and non-binary youth and trans women of colour.
- [Non-binary Icelanders frustrated with National Registry](https://gayiceland.is/2019/non-binary-icelanders-frustrated-with-national-registry/) - Non-binary Icelanders are frustrated with the National Registry for delays preventing them from legally changing their gender, despite a new law that allows people to mark a gender neutral option on their official documents. These frustrations come just months after trans and non-binary Icelanders celebrated new legislation that affirmed many of their rights, including the
- [President of Iceland: “I believe in freedom of love and diversity in society”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/iceland-president-i-believe-in-freedom-of-love-and-diversity-in-society/) - Iceland president, Guðni Jóhannesson wore a rainbow bracelet to a meeting with Mike Pence. And it was no coincidence. Wednesday, September 4, Iceland’s president Guðni Jóhannesson met with the US vice president Mike Pence at Höfði house in Reykjavík for official talks. Mike Pence is know for his stance against the rights of LGBT+ people
- [Memoirs of a Valkyrie: A full evening of shenanigans](https://gayiceland.is/2019/memoirs-of-a-valkyrie-a-full-evening-of-shenanigans/) - On October 10, 13 and 19 at Tjarnarbíó, four performers will reenact the epic adventures of Brunhild in Memoirs of a Valkyrie, an extravagant drag show inspired by the tales and exploits of the legendary heroine. Cameron Corbett, also known as Faye Knús on stage, tells us more about the show, its origins and heroic
- [Dignity and Respect: Reykjavík conferences to build bridges on trans health issues](https://gayiceland.is/2019/dignity-and-respect-reykjavik-conferences-to-build-bridges-on-trans-health-issues/) - The Landspítali Transgender Services Team will today, starting at 10AM, hold a conference in Reykjavík to educate healthcare workers, teachers and other public and private sector workers and employers on the issues that trans people face when accessing education and healthcare. With Dagur B. Eggertsson, the mayor of Reykjavík and Minister of Health Svandís Svavarsdóttir
- [How Mike Pence was met by a rainbow sea in Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2019/how-mike-pence-was-met-by-a-rainbow-sea-in-reykjavik/) - Meet the two women who inspired companies in Reykjavík to raise rainbow flags during the visit of U. S. Vice-President Mike Pence to Iceland. Iceland made international headlines at the beginning of September when U. S. Vice-President Mike Pence was greeted in Reykjavík by a sea of rainbow flags. Pence has a record of opposing
- [Female drag performers raise money for survivors of sexual assault](https://gayiceland.is/2019/female-drag-performers-raise-money-for-survivors-of-sexual-assault/) - Jenny Purr, along with Chardonnay, Lola VonHeart and many other drag performers, come together in Femme In - Unity, the first ever all-female drag show in Iceland. Tonight, Thursday, September 19, at Gaukurinn, the women of the ever-growing drag scene of Reykjavik will stand fierce in the spotlight to show off their talents and raise
- [Prime minister of Iceland:  Queer issues are close to my heart](https://gayiceland.is/2019/prime-minister-queer-issues-are-close-to-my-heart/) - Trans people in Iceland could soon see improvements to their legal rights, thanks to a government bill that will be tabled in the coming months. Despite some gains made in recent years, the status of trans people in Iceland is still criticized by many in the country, especially when it comes to their treatment in
- [Men's magazine editor: ‘Who’s hot, and who’s not?’](https://gayiceland.is/2019/editor-of-mens-magazine-elska-whos-hot-and-whos-not/) - Men's magazine Elska is celebrating its fourth birthday in September. ”I like to think of Elska as some kind of sexy anthropology journal,” explained 33-year-old editor and photographer Liam Campbell in 2015 when he launched the publication. Since then, Liam has traveled to more than twenty countries, including Iceland, to capture ”the bodies and voices
- [Bears on Ice return!](https://gayiceland.is/2019/the-return-of-bears-on-ice/) - Back for its 14th year, Iceland’s biggest men’s only party is back! GayIceland caught up with Frosti Jónsson, the founder of Bears on Ice, about this year’s events, which is starting tomorrow and what the bears are up to. Our first question to Frosti was: “What is Bears on Ice” - for those that don't
- [Anna Kristjánsdóttir: “A pioneer for trans rights and beyond”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/anna-kristjansdottir-a-pioneer-for-trans-rights/) - “In this episode of the podcast Trans Land Ugla speaks with Anna Kristjánsdóttir, who was the first public trans person in Iceland. Anna has been a pioneer for trans rights in Iceland and beyond, and dedicated her life to fighting for trans rights. She has been at the forefront of fighting for social acceptance and
- [“Freedom, acceptance, strength and peace”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/freedom-acceptance-strength-and-peace/) - Being proud of who you are should be an everyday thing. However, for LGBTQI+ people, being proud is especially celebrated in August here in Iceland during Reykjavík Pride. GayIceland's Anna Kristine Magnúsdóttir-Mikulcáková asks members of the community what meaning Pride has for them Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir, chair of Trans Iceland: “The thing I love
- [Reykjavík Pride and rainbow capitalism](https://gayiceland.is/2019/reykjavik-pride-and-rainbow-capitalism/) - GayIceland's Yaz Duncan sits down with Gunnlaugur Bragi, President of Reykjavik Pride, to talk rainbow capitalism, Pride as a protest and Icelandic attitudes towards LGBT+ rights. Once upon a time queer people could be arrested for wearing two items of clothing not commonly associated with their gender, spaces for queer people were raided because it
- [“It’s important that we as a community come together”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/its-important-that-we-as-a-community-come-together/) - Opinion Why is it important that we as a community come together and make a firm stand for human rights? Trans activist and chair person of Trans Iceland, Ugla Stefanía tells you why. As Queer Christmas comes once more the small city of Reykjavík, with all it’s celebration, glitter and politics, the disgruntled voices of
- [Was told he had three months to live](https://gayiceland.is/2019/was-told-he-had-three-months-to-live/) - Svona fólk - Plágan or People Like That - The Plague, documentary about the HIV epidemic in Iceland will be shown at cinema Bíó Paradis this Sunday, as a part of Reykjavík Pride 2019. Donni Gíslason is one of the people who tells his story in the film. Donni tested HIV-positive in 1985, when he
- [How should we approach trans youth?](https://gayiceland.is/2019/how-should-we-approach-trans-youth/) - Newly translated material helps educators, parents, and teens understand trans issues. Trans Barnið, or The Transgender Child, is a collaborative new book of updated material in Icelandic for educators, parents, and anyone looking to further their understanding of LGBTQ+ concepts. It’s a handbook that tackles concepts like “is my child trans?” and family acceptance. As
- [Coming out late in life was hard but now I'm happy](https://gayiceland.is/2019/coming-out-late-in-life-was-hard-but-now-im-happy/) - For Margrét Ágústa Þorvaldsdóttir, coming out was a long and difficult process. It took years for her to accept that she was gay, and it was only a few years ago that she began coming out to her family, friends and community. Now, Margrét wants to share her story so that people out there in
- [The Icelandic Royal Drag Competition revived: Bigger and better than ever](https://gayiceland.is/2019/the-icelandic-royal-drag-competition-revived-bigger-and-better-than-ever/) - The Icelandic Drag competition used to be an annual event, held in the Reykjavík Pride period, but since 2015 it has been in hibernation, due to lack of organizers. This year is going to change that and the competition will be held tonight, August 9, as an official part of Reykjavík Pride. The organiser and
- [Hinsegin Ladies Night: A new queer women only event in Reykjavík!](https://gayiceland.is/2019/hinsegin-ladies-night-a-new-queer-women-only-event-in-reykjavik/) - Whether you identify as a lesbian, a bi woman, pan, poly or ace, non-binary or trans, whether you’ve just turned 20 or reached 90, make sure to check out Hinsegin Ladies Night, a new queer women only events in Iceland. A huge group of women showed up for the first event and the next one
- [Hump Day Social: A monthly social event for gay men](https://gayiceland.is/2019/hump-day-social-a-monthly-social-event-for-gay-men/) - The Hump Day Social: How a monthly social event in Reykjavík for gay men has been running for over two years now and has become a deep-rooted social network. The next edition of The Hump Day Social is scheduled this Wednesday, July 10, at Skúli Craft Bar (Aðalstræti 9), from 7 to 10 pm. This
- [Opening Tonight: Soulflow Comedy](https://gayiceland.is/2019/opening-tonight-soulflow-comedy/) - More than just stand up from queer and female performers. A new group of performers hopes to invigorate the Icelandic comedy scene and they’re called Soulflow. Hosting weekly open mic shows at Gaukurinn, Katrín Björk, Kimi Tayler, and Krúz Estée are shaking up the norms when it comes to who’s on the mic. Like the
- [Take a look inside the new queer bar in Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2019/take-a-look-inside-reykjaviks-new-queer-bar/) - A restaurant, coffehouse, bar and dance club. The recently opened Curious at Hafnarstræti 4 is the latest addition to the queer scene in Reykjavík. The house’s yellow facade got a facelift with a cool shade of gray-blue. Downstairs will be a cafe and restaurant space during the day with plenty of treats to enjoy, rolling out
- [A New Queer Bar in Reykjavík?](https://gayiceland.is/2019/a-new-queer-bar-in-reykjavik/) - An inside scoop on the opening of *Curious*. It’s a sunny Monday when I knock on the door of Hafnarstræti 4 to meet Ragnhildur Holm, the manager of Reykjavík’s newest queer space, Curious. If you know this address, you’ll also know it has housed many bars and cafes in the past, most notably drenched in
- [A homage to the Stonewall rebellion](https://gayiceland.is/2019/a-homage-to-the-stonewall-rebellion/) - Today, Friday June 28, the national queer organization Samtökin ’78 will be holding in Reykjavik an event called The first Pride was a riot as a tribute to the Stonewall rebellion - this ”shot heard round the world ” fifty years ago to the day. Although the first Pride was most certainly not a riot
- [The guide who knows every little secret](https://gayiceland.is/2019/the-guide-who-knows-every-little-secret/) - Passengers coming to Iceland to get married after planning a wedding with LGBT travel office Pink Iceland are lucky. Often the first Icelander they meet is their driver, Arnar Ólafsson, a former guitarist of the well known Icelandic band Leaves. Arnar is the typical happy go lucky guy and those who get him as a
- [New dimension to the queer entertainment scene](https://gayiceland.is/2019/new-dimension-to-the-queer-entertainment-scene/) - Three queer artists will come together in a live concert this Saturday Night, 15th of June, at Kiki Queer Bar on Laugavegur. The artists are Bláskjár, which is the stage name of Dísa Hreiðarsdóttir, Bjartmar Þórðarson and Skaði Þórðardóttir and though they all play electronic music their music styles are hugely different. Gay Iceland got
- [Getting married in Iceland: A step by step guide](https://gayiceland.is/2019/getting-married-in-iceland-a-step-by-step-guide/) - You are so much in love that you're getting married. You are in a same-sex relationship and of course want your wedding to take place in an extraordinary place. So how does Iceland sound, with it's great waterfalls, volcanos and glaciers? GayIceland's Anna Kristine Magnúsdóttir Mikulcáková got in touch with Hannes Pálsson at travel, event
- [Iceland Has Made A Monumental Step For Trans Rights](https://gayiceland.is/2019/iceland-has-made-a-monumental-step-for-trans-rights/) - Opinion This week a milestone bill making it easier for trans people to change the name and gender on their birth certificates and completely transforming the way people can access health care passed Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament. Activist Ugla Stefanía writes about the new bill and what it means. On a cold spring morning over
- [Gay Polish man in Iceland: Caught between two worlds](https://gayiceland.is/2019/gay-polish-man-in-iceland-caught-between-two-worlds/) - What does it feel like to be Polish and queer and living in Iceland? Polish people make up the largest ethnic minority group in Iceland, presenting more than 40% of all immigrants in Iceland as of 2018. Last year it was estimated that over 19.000 people of Polish origin were living in Iceland. We at
- [“One of the best decisions that I‘ve made!”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/one-of-the-best-decisions-that-ive-made/) - “So much more than words” is the title of the annual spring concert by The Reykjavik Queer Choir, which will be held in church Guðríðarkirkja on May 18th. The title comes from one of the song lyrics the choir performs and marks the way to the concert which is sweetness, empathy, strenght, friendship and endless
- [Queer people talk about their queer childhood heroes](https://gayiceland.is/2019/queer-people-talk-about-their-queer-childhood-heroes/) - Sister Sister is GayIceland’s podcast on the experiences of queer women hosted by Yaz Duncan. In this episode of Sister Sister Yaz speaks to queer people about their queer childhood heroes. “The podcast is called Sister Sister. There used to be a TV show in the ‘90s called Sister Sister and I used to watch
- [From boi to balayage: How I came to terms with my femininity](https://gayiceland.is/2019/from-boi-to-balayage-how-i-came-to-terms-with-my-femininity/) - OPINION Yaz Duncan on embracing femininity. As far back as I can remember I generally wasn’t interested in things marketed at girls and wasn’t comfortable with what ‘being a girl’ meant for the way I was expected to behave. Growing up, I liked pirates, Action Man, collecting worms with my friend Barney and being messy,
- [I couldn’t live in Poland says gay man](https://gayiceland.is/2019/i-couldnt-live-in-poland-says-gay-man-in-iceland/) - What does it feel like to be Polish and queer and living in Iceland? Polish people make up the largest ethnic minority group in Iceland, presenting more than 40% of all immigrants in Iceland as of 2018. Last year it was estimated that over 19.000 people of Polish origin were living in Iceland. We at
- [“This is to let people know I’m not dead”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/this-is-to-let-people-know-im-not-dead/) - Gay comedian Jonathan Duffy has a new exciting comedy show, It's been a while, that premiers tonight at theater Tjarnarbíó. GayIceland got in touch with Jonathan and started by asking in what ways it will be different from his previous shows. “Well, the previous shows I have done normally had a theme to them, they
- [Cruising: What is dating like in Iceland?](https://gayiceland.is/2019/cruising-what-is-dating-like-in-iceland/) - Iceland is well known for for being a very gay friendly nation, but how does the land of fire and ice compare to other countries when it comes to dating? In this episode of Cruising, Jono Duffy delves into the world of dating for gay and bi men in Iceland. What was it like before
- [Trans health care: Things need to change](https://gayiceland.is/2019/trans-health-care-things-need-to-change/) - A brand new episode of Trans Land. In this week's episode of Trans Land, Ugla speaks with Svanhvít and Alexander about their experiences with trans related health care in Iceland. While the care has improved a lot in the past few years, there are still problems that trans people face when accessing care. ‘Trans
- [Trans Land: A new platform for trans people](https://gayiceland.is/2018/trans-land-a-new-platform-for-trans-people/) - Trans people often don't get to share their experiences and it's common to come across news or articles about trans people, without their input. Trans Land, GayIceland's newest podcast, gives trans people a platform to talk about their issues with someone who is also a part of the community. The host of Trans Land is
- [Cruising: A new podcast on gay men](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-new-podcast-about-gay-men/) - ‘Cruising’ is a new podcast that focuses on the issues of gay men living in Iceland. The first episode premiers today on GayIceland, and in light of that we decided to catch up with its host, Jonathan Duffy, and ask him tell us about it and what he has in store for us. The podcast,
- [Sister Sister: GayIceland's new podcast on queer women](https://gayiceland.is/2018/sister-sister-gayicelands-new-podcast-on-queer-women/) - Sister Sister is GayIceland's brand new podcast on the experiences of queer women hosted by Yaz Duncan.
- [Is the reigning drag queen of Iceland a villain in disguise?](https://gayiceland.is/2019/is-the-reigning-drag-queen-of-iceland-a-villain-in-disguise/) - Gógó Starr and the drag-performance group Drag-Súgur will be putting on a show at bar Gaukurinn tonight, downtown Reykjavík, impersonating animation characters, in an eclectic queer Parade. ”I used to have a big crush on Peter Pan because he’s a wild boy snatching people away in a dream world”, says Sigurður, bursting in laughter. I
- [“Together we are a force for positive change”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/together-we-are-a-force-for-positive-change/) - The Icelandic National Queer Organization, Samtökin ’78, has a new chair, a young bisexal woman, a linguist and a mother by the name of Þorbjörg Þorvaldsdóttir. But who is she, were does she come from and what are the biggest challenges she will be facing as the chair of Samtökin ’78? GayIceland contacted Þorbjörg to
- [“I found love in Iceland” says queer Polish activist](https://gayiceland.is/2019/queer-polish-activist-i-found-love-in-iceland/) - What does it feels like to be Polish and queer and living in Iceland? Polish people make up the largest ethnic minority group in Iceland, presenting more than 40% of all immigrants in Iceland as of 2018. Last year it was estimated that over 19.000 people of Polish people were living in Iceland. We at
- [Here’s why you should be going to tonight’s drag show](https://gayiceland.is/2019/heres-why-you-should-be-going-to-tonights-drag-show/) - “Just Another Drag Show or Whatever” is slated to be full of international drag royalty and laughs for days. Are you a Reykavík local with nothing to do this Friday night? Maybe you’re a tourist visiting the island and surfing the web for queer things to do while you’re here. Well, you’re in luck because
- [Will not put Iceland in the forefront when it comes to LGBTI issues](https://gayiceland.is/2019/will-not-put-iceland-in-the-front-when-it-comes-to-lgbti-issues/) - Icelanders are learning more details about a new government bill that could improve the rights of trans and intersex people — and some questions are being raised about what’s being left out in the landmark legislation. GayIceland spoke with Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir about the bill last month, when she said she hoped the bill
- [Detox headlines Rainbow Reykjavík: ‘It’ll all be super entertaining’](https://gayiceland.is/2019/detox-headlines-rainbow-reykjavik-itll-all-be-super-entertaining/) - One of Iceland’s biggest queer events of the winter is just around the corner and this year a very special guest is here to join the party. The drag queen Detox will be making an appearance at this year’s Rainbow Reykjavík. Pink Iceland’s eighth annual winter pride event kicks off on Thursday, March 7 and
- [Queer whistleblower: “I’ve always been on the edge of everything”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/34578/) - Meet the queer disabled woman who has become a national hero in Iceland after exposing the prejudice of parliementarinas towards women and minority groups. Bára Halldórsdóttir has become a national hero after she recorded six members of parliament making derogatory comments about women, queer people and people with disabilities in a bar in downtown Reykjavik
- [RuPaul is sending 2 queens to the Polar Circle](https://gayiceland.is/2019/rupaul-is-sending-2-queens-to-the-polar-circle/) - We’ve been sitting on a secret for long enough. In tonight’s episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, two queens will be getting fulfilled the dream of many and winning a trip to the dark, cold gates of the Arctic, i.e. an adventure to Iceland. GayIceland spoke to Eva María-Glimmer, CEO of LGBT travel and events
- [“In Iceland queer youth still needs support”](https://gayiceland.is/2019/queer-youth-still-needs-support-in-iceland/) - The Queer Student Association of Iceland, Q, is turning twenty this year and is on the way up again. GayIceland talked to the chair of Q, Bergþóra Sveinsdóttir about the challenges the association faces, its goals and the upcoming birthday celebration. Q, the Queer Student Association, is celebrating its twentieth birthday this year. Founded in
- [“Guðni faggot” now President of Iceland and patron of a queer organisation](https://gayiceland.is/2018/gudni-faggot-now-president-of-iceland-and-patron-of-a-queer-organisation/) - When the National Queer Organization, Samtökin ´78, celebrated their 40th anniversary in June, it was announced that the President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, had become patron of the organization. Here he speaks in depth with GayIceland about being called “faggot” as a boy and why he celebrates diversity at the Reykjavik Pride festival every
- [International drag stars: Kicking of the new year in neon](https://gayiceland.is/2019/kicking-of-the-new-year-in-neon/) - The Drag Artists in Drag-Súgur start the new year with a bang at Gaukurinn tonight. The show is calld Neon Me and according to Ásgeir Helgi, a.k.a Miss Agatha P, a new star in the Drag-Súgur group, it will be fabulous as never before. Ásgeir Helgi won the Drag Competition of Iceland 18 years ago
- [Queer Pluto: A new safe space for young people](https://gayiceland.is/2019/queer-pluto-a-new-safe-space-for-young-people/) - Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, but Queer Pluto gives LGBTQI youths somewhere to be. Navigating the world as a teenager is difficult, and that can be even tougher for youths who identity as LGBTQI or are questioning their identity, sexuality, gender, the meaning of life, or even what planet they are from.
- [Authorities planned to isolate people with HIV](https://gayiceland.is/2018/authorities-planned-to-isolate-people-with-hiv/) - “The Other Side“ (“Hin hliðin“) is the title of a new book containing 47 micro stories that take place in one of Iceland‘s most treasured queer sites, Laugavegur22. GayIceland sat down with the author to find out more. “The stories revolve around the club scene, with references to our battle for equal rights.That blends into
- [Icelandic minister to Pope Francis: “I hope you see the error of your ways”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelandic-minister-to-pope-francis-i-hope-you-see-the-error-of-your-ways/) - Icelandic minister urges the Pope to reconsider his attitude towards queer people. Minister for the Environment and Natural Resources of Iceland, Guðmundur Ingi Guðbrandsson, has written a letter to Pope Francis asking him to reconsider his attitude towards queer people within the church. “I hope you see the error of your ways,” the minister says
- [A new documentary about gays and lesbians battle for equal rights](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-new-documentary-about-the-battle-for-equal-rights-for-gays-and-lesbians/) - People Like That (Svona fólk) - is a new documentary film by Hrafnhildur Gunnarsdóttir, which premieres at cinema Bíó Paradís tonight, Tuesday November 27th. The film documents the civil rights struggle of gays and lesbians in Iceland and how the public opinion towards them has shifted 180° in the last 40 years. Hrafnhildur started documenting
- [Going out for a drink in Iceland? Just make sure you're not trans](https://gayiceland.is/2018/going-out-for-a-drink-in-iceland-just-make-sure-youre-not-trans/) - OPINION Like most people I like to go out and celebrate my birthday to ignore the inevitable fact that I am getting older and that my body is slowly deteriorating. For most people this morbid celebration doesn’t really pose many challenges. You just get dressed into something nice, grab your friends and go out, right?
- [Why LGBTI inclusive education is a necessity - not a luxury](https://gayiceland.is/2018/why-lgbqti-inclusive-education-is-a-necessity-not-a-luxury/) - OPINION I don’t need to be given an excuse to talk about how amazing Scotland is, the people, the beautiful scenery, the swally (drink), the craic (humour) and the fact that Scottish people invented the TV and penicillin but my country did something recently that made me the proudest I have ever been. Last month,
- [HIV Iceland celebrates 30 years anniversary](https://gayiceland.is/2018/hiv-iceland-celebrates-its-30-years-anniversary/) - Today, December 1st, is the annual World AIDS Day and this year the theme is “Know your Status” which encourages everyone to go and get tested. HIV Iceland will hold an event in it’s headquarters to celebrate. This year though the celebration will be more profound as it’s been 30 years since HIV Iceland was
- [New novel sheds light on the lives of Icelandic lesbians](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-novel-sheds-light-on-the-lives-of-icelandic-lesbians/) - Forever love (Að eilífu ástin) is the name of a new novel by Fríða Bonnie Andersen that just hit bookstores. It is Fríða’s first novel, but she has written plays and a book for children. Forever love tells the story of two lesbians in the twenties and thirties of last century, and takes place both
- [A platform to be fierce, fun and fabulous](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-platform-to-be-fierce-fun-and-fabulous/) - Three years a go the drag show group Drag-Súgur came like a breath of fresh and invigorating air into the Reykjavík nightlife with monthly performances. This Friday, the 16th of November, they are celebrating their achievements with a spectacular anniversary show at bar Gaukurinn down town Reykjavík. GayIceland contacted one of Drag-Súgurs founders Sigurður Guðjónsson, better
- [Trump's war against trans people](https://gayiceland.is/2018/trumps-war-against-trans-people/) - It’s been made very clear that LGBTQI+ people and the Trump Administration’s agenda are natural enemies.
- [“It will be a very intimate and cosy gig”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/it-will-be-a-very-intimate-and-cosy-gig/) - The bi-weekly Pop-up Hygge concerts under the label of Queer Fridays continues in the headquarters of Pink Iceland and next Friday, Friday October 26th the singer/songwriter Bláskjár will perform there. Bláskjár - or Blue Eyes as it means in English - is the alter ego of composer Dísa Hreiðarsdóttir who says she came up with
- [We need to discuss abuse in queer relationships](https://gayiceland.is/2018/we-need-to-discuss-abuse-in-queer-relationships/) - I'm sorry, an Icelandic short film about abuse in a lesbian relationship, recently just won platinum in the LGBTQ+ category at the Independent Shorts Awards and was chosen the October winner of Best Short Drama at Changin Face International Film Festival. The film has also been accepted into two film festivals, Northern Wave International Film
- [Swimming in Iceland: From an agender person's perspective](https://gayiceland.is/2018/swimming-in-iceland-from-an-agender-persons-perspective/) - What does it feel like to go swimming in Iceland from the perspective of an agender person? Viima Lampinen reports. Moving to Iceland has changed my life in a way I didn't think was possible: I've started swimming. After not swimming for decades and having anxiety over going to the swimming pools because of the
- [The party of the year for lesbian, bi and pan sexual women](https://gayiceland.is/2018/the-party-of-the-year-for-lesbian-bi-and-pan-sexual-women/) - Divas of Reykjavík take note; it’s that time of year again. The annual Diva Party for lesbian, bi and pan sexual women will be held at Iðnó Saturday, October 20th, and it’s gonna be even more glamorous than ever before according to Fríða Bonnie Andersen, head of the committee that has been organizing the event.
- [New recommendations on blood donations angers gay men in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-recomandation-on-blood-donations-causes-stir-in-the-gay-community/) - The Icelandic Centre for Communicable Disease Control has recently recommended that gay men are permitted to donate blood on the condition that they would be required to abstain from sexual activity at least six months before donating. This has not gone down well with the gay community and tonight, Monday 8th of October, The National
- [Men's magazine Elska celebrates it's third anniversary](https://gayiceland.is/2018/mens-magazine-elska-celebrates-its-third-anniversary/) - Elska, a magazine that focuses on the portraits and stories of gay men in cities across the globe, is celebrating its third year anniversary. Gayiceland caught up with the zine's creator, Liam Campbell, to discuss Elska from its inception to now. “The original concept was simple,” says Liam, when asked about how it all started.
- [New film on trans issues: The battle to be allowed to be oneself](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-film-on-trans-issues-the-battle-to-be-allowed-to-be-oneself/) - The short film ÉG / I which is inspired by the experience of Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir of coming out as trans had its premier at Reykjavík International Film Festival - RIFF last Sunday. The film is 15 minutes long and follows the main character through the procedure of coming out as trans. The film
- [A brand new book for trans teens](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-brand-new-book-for-trans-teens/) - Trans Teen Survival Guide is a new book written by trans activists Owl (Ugla Stefanía) and Fox Fisher where they try to answer all the questions that growing up as trans raises.
- [Bruce the angry bear gets his own comic book](https://gayiceland.is/2018/bruce-the-angry-bear-gets-his-own-comic-book/) - A de luxe edition of the comic strip Bruce the angry bear has been published. We spoke to the brains behind the book, Einar Valur Másson (34) and Jonathan H.Duffy, Jono (33) about the good reception it has gotten and possible new projects. Tell us about the new book? “Bruce the Angry Bear, vol. 1: Welcome to
- [From Russia, to Iceland with Love](https://gayiceland.is/2018/from-russia-to-iceland-with-love/) - GayIceland catches up with singer songwriter, Vasi about her fascination with the Icelandic landscape, playing music from a young age and her upcoming performance tonight at Pink Iceland's Queer Fridays / Pop-Up Hygge and this year’s Airwaves festival. Vasi grew up in a Russian/American family and traveled between the states and the Urals, where her
- [Getting married at Bears on Ice](https://gayiceland.is/2018/getting-married-at-bears-on-ice/) - Jonas Engel-Isaksson is a swedish DJ that will be playing at Gaukurinn tonight, Friday 31st of August, as a part of the Bears on Ice Festival that is happening in Reykjavík this weekend. DJ-ing is not the only reason Jonas is attending the Festival though, yesterday he got married to his boyfriend Ben Engel at
- [A unique experience that combines nature, culture and history](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-unique-experience-that-combines-nature-culture-and-history/) - Seatours offers unique ferry services and cuisine-based trips in captivating surroundings in the Western part of Iceland. Icelanders have always been a seafaring nation, and as more visitors come to the country, more are seeing the appeal of traversing its waters. While many whale and puffin watching tours can be found across the country, Seatours
- [The AIDS crisis - maybe not a crisis after all?](https://gayiceland.is/2018/the-aids-crisis-maybe-not-a-crisis-after-all/) - OPINION Columnist Reynir Þór Eggertsson writes about a controversial claim in an Icelandic newspaper that the AIDS crisis of the 80's may have been exaggerated. After a wonderful Pride Week of queer craziness in Iceland last week, our community got a rude awakening with the morning coffee on Monday as the newspaper Morgunblaðið published a
- [Special daytrips for LGBTQI+ travellers](https://gayiceland.is/2018/special-daytrips-for-lgbtqi-travellers/) - The queer travel agency Pink Iceland is offering bi-monthly trips exclusively for the LGBTQI+ traveller. “We’re making sure we’re unashamedly out there and visible, giving a big “fuck you” to those who would rather we weren’t,” says Eva María Þórarinsdóttir Lange, co-owner and CEO of Pink Iceland. “We wanted to do something more when it
- [Meet the new President of Reykjavík Pride: A fun program this year](https://gayiceland.is/2018/meet-the-new-president-of-reykjavik-pride-a-bigger-program-this-year/) - Gunnlaugur Bragi Björnsson is the new president of Reykjavík Pride and he also recently took office as deputy city councillor in Reykjavík. He’s been active in social work for years, but it all started with the scouts in his hometown of Höfn í Hornafirði when he was a boy.
- [“I'm not dead yet!”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/im-not-dead-yet/) - Þórir Björnsson is a living legend in the queer community in Iceland.
- [A queen with a taste for all things dark](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-queen-with-a-taste-for-all-things-dark/) - GayIceland sits down with dark drag queen Mighty Bear to talk about their new music, gothic fantasy and a passion for fashion.
- [Surrogacy for gay male couples and singles](https://gayiceland.is/2018/surrogacy-for-gay-male-couples-and-singles/) - A surrogacy agency intends to offer Icelandic gay male couples to arrange surrogacy in USA or Ukraine.
- [“Prague is easy going for LGBTQ people”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/prague-is-easy-going-for-lgbtq-people/) - While Reykjavík Pride takes place the Prague Pride is going on in the Czech Republic. GayIcelands' reporter Anna Kristine met with real live gay couple Martin Benda (35) and Jan Lukas (also called Honza, 28), who are from Prague and asked them a bit about themselves and the situation for queer people in their country.
- [Trans people dehumanized in Icelandic magazine](https://gayiceland.is/2018/trans-people-dehumanized-in-icelandic-magazine/) - An Icelandic magazine Lhas caused an outrage in the queer community by publishing a highly controversial article about trans people.
- [Jog on, self-appointed experts](https://gayiceland.is/2018/jog-on-self-appointed-experts/) - Elmar Bjarnason football player has gone on a rampage about trans people and trans rights calling trans people mentally ill. Today trans activist Ugla Stefanía (Owl Fisher) debunks the footballer's claims. Who doesn’t love it when some guy appoints himself as the expert over a topic that doesn’t have anything to do with him, especially
- [Icelanders get free PrEP in the fight against HIV](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelanders-get-free-prep-in-the-fight-against-hiv/) - Icelandic Health Authorities recently agreed to subsidize PrEP treatments in Iceland so those who practice high risk sex can now get free medication to prevent HIV infections.
- [AFS in Iceland searching for queer families](https://gayiceland.is/2018/afs-in-iceland-searching-for-queer-families/) - The exchange student organisation AFS is looking for queer families in Iceland to house foreign students.
- [“I was tired of worrying all the time about getting infected”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/i-was-tired-of-worrying-all-the-time-about-getting-infected/) - A man who has undergone PrEP treatment at his own cost for 18 months says it was a huge relief for him to stop having to worry about getting infected by HIV.
- [A new deadly duo in drag](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-new-deadly-duo-in-drag/) - There is a new drag duo in town. Hans & Jackie are taking over the stage at Gaukurinn on July the 19th with their brand new show What a mess. Behind those fabulous drag characters are Hanna Jane Cohen and Thomas Brorsen Smidt which have been performing individually with Drag Súgur in the last months.
- [A rainbow festival in the countryside](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-rainbow-festival-in-the-countryside/) - A new queer music festival, The Rainbow Festival, will be held at Havarí, the farm at Karlsstaðir in the eastern part of Iceland from July the 12-14th, starting tomorrow night. The festival is a collaboration between LGBTIQI+ travel agency Pink Iceland and Havarí where husband and wife Svavar and Berglind run a café, food production, guesthouse
- [Non-gendered being star of new music video](https://gayiceland.is/2018/non-gendered-being-star-of-new-music-video/) - Kitty Von-Sometime releases new video that focuses on an unspecified non-gendered dystopian being. Kitty Von-Sometime, the mastermind behind the long-running The Weird Girls Project, has a new video piece out. It accompanies a single from the anonymous music collective KERAI, whose album is presented as the voice of a non-gendered being of unknown origin. We
- [Win a ticket to this year's gay teen romance](https://gayiceland.is/2018/win-a-ticket-to-this-years-gay-teen-romance/) - GayIceland is giving out 10 tickets to Love, Simon on the website´s Facebook page. The film is the first Hollywood teen film to revolve around gay romance. Love, Simon, is to premiere in Iceland on Wednesday; the first Hollywood teen film revolved around gay romance. The script is based on an award-winning, coming-of-age novel published
- [Laws finally guarantee equal employment rights for queer people!](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelandic-equality-laws-include-queer-people-at-last/) - A new bill on equality was passed in the Icelandic Parliament, Althing, last week. It may have escaped many people’s attention but it’s actually an historical bill for Icelandic law, Althing and last but not least, Iceland’s queer community. The new law ensures equal employment rights for everybody - regardless of “race, ethnicity, religion, life
- [I didn’t know I had become a bear](https://gayiceland.is/2018/i-didnt-know-i-had-become-a-bear/) - Gay comedion Jonathan Duffy has a new comedy show that is being shown at the Reykjavík Fringe this week.
- [First trans woman takes office as deputy city councillor](https://gayiceland.is/2018/first-trans-woman-takes-office-as-city-councillor/) - Alexandra Briem is a new deputy city councillor in Reykjavík and the first trans woman to be elected for office in the city council. She is there on behalf of the Pirate Party and says that she does not consider herself specifically a spokesperson for trans people, although she is aware that she does represent
- [Sex, love and Secret Solstice](https://gayiceland.is/2018/sex-love-and-secret-solstice/) - Icelandic performer, Skadi has released a new single and video entitled ‘Vaccum of the Heart’ which deals with the themes of sex, love and intimacy within the context of masculinity and manhood. GayIceland sits down with the multi-media artist and performer to discuss the new video, collaboration with a community of musicians and her musical
- [Celebrating our diversity](https://gayiceland.is/2018/celebrating-our-diversity/) - The National Queer Organisation of Iceland, Samtökin ’78, is celebrating their 40th anniversary this weekend with a big gala. They have come a long way in those 40 years and GayIceland contacted Daníel E. Arnarsson, the executive director of Samtökin ’78, and asked him about the celebration and the future plans for the organisation. Forty years
- [Sindri Sindrason: “First and foremost a dad“](https://gayiceland.is/2018/first-and-foremost-a-dad/) - Proud dad and TV presenter Sindri Sindrason talks exclusively to GayIceland about how the urge for having a child led him to becoming a foster parent. “We received a phone call saying there was this little girl, three and a half years, who needed fostering. And that she had been at a care home over
- [Drag queen to symbolize Iceland on National Day](https://gayiceland.is/2018/drag-queen-to-symbolize-iceland-on-national-day/) - Gógó Starr, the well-known drag queen, will be portraying the Lady of the Mountain, Iceland’s national symbol in the formal parade celebrating Iceland’s National Day June 17th. It’s the first time a drag queen takes on this role. “I will portray the Lady of the Mountain in the official parade in Reykjavík,” explains Gógó’s alter
- [Icelandic drag family featured in new magazine](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelandic-drag-family-featured-in-new-magazine/) - Iceland’s drag artists are in the spotlight of a new magazine that aims to showcase the stories and souls of sidelined communities around the world. The brainchild of photographer and journalist Kaspars Bekeris, and artist and activist Matthias Boyer, “estranged #1”: Photo Album on an Icelandic Drag Family is a bold project that aims to
- [Trans man crowned Mr Gay Denmark 2018](https://gayiceland.is/2018/trans-man-crowned-mr-gay-denmark-2018/) - Trans man makes history in Denmark. History was made on a bright Saturday night at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub in the heart of Copenhagen’s pulsing gay night life when the Danish LGBT+ community celebrated freedom and inclusion by choosing the 44 yeah-old Niels Jansen as the new Mr Gay Denmark 2018. “There are lots of ways
- [Brand new queer opera examines public shaming](https://gayiceland.is/2018/brand-new-queer-opera-examines-public-shaming/) - #echochamber is a new Anglo-Icelandic opera about sexism and shaming on social media. The opera comes from the music theater group Aequitas Collective in collaboration with Folk Opera Iceland. The shows producer and one of the singers is Ísabella Leifsdóttir who says that it was not until they were well into rehearsals that the creators realized
- [Iceland drops to 18th place on Rainbow Map](https://gayiceland.is/2018/iceland-drops-to-18th-place-on-rainbow-map/) - Iceland has fallen even further behind several other European countries in terms of legal rights and protections for LGBTQIA+ people. The 2018 annual review conducted by ILGA-Europe, an international NGO that advocates for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people, shows that Iceland has stagnated while other European countries have made advancements in the realm of queer
- [Director hopes his film will encourage kids to come out](https://gayiceland.is/2018/director-hopes-his-film-will-encourage-kids-to-come-out/) - HANN (e. HE), a new Icelandic short film focusing on the struggle with acceptance, will premier at Bíó Paradís this Friday, May the 18th, courtesy of Samtökin ’78 and free of charge. HANN is a story of adolescence and the unintended pressures from society to stay within the confines of normality. An intimate story inspired
- [Icelandic drag queens take on RuPaul’s DragCon](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelandic-drag-queens-take-on-rupauls-dragcon/) - The Icelandic drag scene is set to be represented at RuPaul’s DragCon in Los Angeles in May, a 60 thousand person convention of all things drag-related. Five members of the group Drag-Súgur will be in attendance, presenting a booth on the convention floor, close to superstar RuPaul’s own display. We talked to Icelandic drag pioneer
- [“I did not want to live like a hounded animal”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/i-did-not-want-to-live-like-a-hounded-animal/) - The National Queer Organization, Samtökin ’78, celebrates it’s 40th anniversary today, on May the 9th. It’s founding 40 years ago was down to one single man who after contemplating suicide decided to fight for his own and others rights as gays. His name is Hörður Torfason, a well-known singer/songwriter, actor and stage director in Iceland.
- [A safer environment for trans and questioning people](https://gayiceland.is/2018/a-safer-environment-for-trans-and-questioning-people/) - A support group for foreign trans people founded in Reykjavík. Jay Lalonde moved to Iceland in the summer of 2017 and soon found out that there was very little information on trans matters publicly available, and almost none of it in English. Something had to be done and Jay came up with an idea. To
- [More same-sex couples apply to become foster parents](https://gayiceland.is/2018/more-same-sex-couples-apply-to-become-foster-parents/) - More same-sex couples applied to become foster parents after a TV documentary series about fostered children and foster care in Iceland was broadcast. “For years, lesbian couples have been active in fostering and several children have been placed in care with them, but the number of female couples has dropped a lot lately. After Sindri
- [Are you getting the help you need?](https://gayiceland.is/2018/are-you-getting-the-help-you-need/) - How many LGBTI people have struggled with who they are. And how many of them are getting the help they need, asks columnist Angel Buns O'hara. Today Angel tells her own story. I woke up early and was unable to go back to sleep as I had this strong urge to write and get my feelings
- [The biggest drag show yet in the North](https://gayiceland.is/2018/the-biggest-drag-show-yet-in-the-north/) - The Northern Dragshow on April 14th is set to shower the quiet northern town Akureyri with glitter and glamour. The town of Akureyri is home to only 19,000 people and yet the yearly Northern Dragshow is a big event in the community, growing larger each year. With performers visiting from Reykjavík, alongside local talents and returning
- [Menntaskólinn við Sund has a duty to support their trans students](https://gayiceland.is/2018/menntaskolinn-vid-sund-has-a-duty-to-support-their-trans-students/) - It is the duty of schools to make sure that their students feel safe at school. It is their job to create an environment where all students are allowed to flourish and are celebrated for being who they are, writes Ugla Stefanía, referring to a school that is not allowing a trans boy to use his new
- [Northern lights attract more tourists than ever](https://gayiceland.is/2018/northern-lights-attract-more-tourists-than-ever/) - More tourists than ever are visiting Iceland to see the northern lights, according to Grétar Jónsson, founder and director of Aurora Reykjavík. Grétar says this season has been the biggest yet for the tour operator, which offers northern light tours alongside its exhibition space in central Reykjavík. “February was really, really good for us, because we
- [“Categorizing films by the sexuality of protagonists needs to stop”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/categorizing-films-by-the-sexual-orientation-of-protagonists-needs-to-stop/) - That certainly does not apply to my film, says director of award-winning film "And Breathe Normally". And Breathe Normally, the first feature film of multi award-winning director Ísold Uggadóttir, had it’s premier in Iceland on March 9th. It had already been screened at the Sundance Film Festival, where Ísold was awarded with the best international
- [New web-series about being queer](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-web-series-about-being-queer/) - The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service, RÚV, has launched a new web series about being queer. The series are called Hinseginleikinn - Everyday Queer - and it’s creator and host is Ingileif Friðriksdóttir, which bases the concept of the series on the hugely popular snapchat account Hinseginleikinn, where queer people of every kind tell their stories.
- [The ban on circumcision in Iceland: Humanity or hypocrisy?](https://gayiceland.is/2018/ban-circumcision-iceland-humanity-hypocrisy/) - Editor of GayIceland Roald Eyvindsson takes a look at the nation‘s general and curious stance against „genital mutilation on infants“. OPINION This month Iceland made headlines across the world, following a heated debate about a new bill, currently before the Icelandic parliament (Alþingi), that proposes to ban any kind of mutilation on children, including religious
- [Eirikur Örn: "We all consist of a multitude of different things"](https://gayiceland.is/2018/eirikur-orn-norddahl-we-all-consist-of-a-multitude-of-different-things/) - Playwright of “controversial” play responds to criticism. GayIceland contacted the author of Hans Blær, Eiríkur Örn Norðdahl to get his response to Ugla’s point of view and started by asking Eiríkur why he had decided to make the protagonist a non binary person. “To begin with it’s hard to say that things are strictly decided
- [New play makes queer community furious](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-play-makes-queer-community-furious/) - Obvious that the author does not know the first thing about non binary people, says activist. An interview on national TV, RÚV, with the writer Eiríkur Örn Norðdahl about his new play, “Hans Blær”, has caused quite a stir in the Icelandic queer community. The protagonist of the play is the non binary trans person
- [Queer choir from England visits Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2018/queer-choir-from-england-visits-iceland/) - It’s not every day that we Icelanders get to hear choirs from foreign countries, let alone a queer men’s choir, but this week we´ll get one of those rare visits. The Sunday Boys from Manchester are holding two concerts here, on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th of March. Their conductor, Michael Betteridge, has been working
- [Ministry of Welfare doubles funding to Samtökin '78](https://gayiceland.is/2018/ministry-of-welfare-doubles-funding-to-samtokin-78/) - Samtökin ´78 and the Ministry of Welfare have signed an agreement of 12 million ISK in public funding for a year. This means that the ministry is doubling it's funding to the organisation. “It´s been a dream of ours for a very long time. Up until now, Samtökin have only received a sum which is
- [Mother of trans boy: The only obstacle was the psychiatrist](https://gayiceland.is/2018/the-only-obstacle-was-the-psychiatrist/) - A mother of a young trans boy says that society as a whole has been remarkably understanding towards her son. With one exception: A psychiatrist who refused to take his claim of being a boy seriously. Sólveig Hólm’s son is trans but was raised as one of three sisters until he was thirteen years old. Now he is
- [University students receive queer education](https://gayiceland.is/2018/university-students-queer-education/) - Extremely important since issues relating to queer matters within Icelandic universities need to be improved, says head of Queer Student Association. Q – Queer Student Association together with Samtökin ’78, the National Queer Organization, have started inviting students at the University of Iceland to go on educational field trips to the headquarters of Samtökin '78
- [Missionary man](https://gayiceland.is/2018/missionary-man/) - Andrew Sim recounts an encounter he had with a closeted, married man. OPINION I’m sitting at a bar in the East Village of New York after playing a lovely gig to a packed room of comics, tourists and a few true New Yorkers. The adrenaline is still spiking my brain as I sip on my
- [Icelandic school sets policy in queer matters](https://gayiceland.is/2018/icelandic-shool-sets-policy-queer-matters/) - Icelandic secondary school to mark a policy in queer matters, the first to do so. Headmaster believes that other schools in Iceland will follow suit. Gardabaer College (Fjölbrautaskólinn í Garðabæ) aims to mark a policy in the matters of queer students, the first of Icelandic secondary schools to do so. The wheels have already been
- [That’s SO gay!](https://gayiceland.is/2018/thats-so-gay/) - Straight men talk about the experience of being a drag queen. The drag scene has up until now mainly been the domain of gay men but that’s rapidly changing. Straight men and straight women are not uncommon on the scene these days, both here in Iceland and especially abroad. GayIceland was curious to know how
- [“I wanted to show real love”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/wanted-show-real-love/) - A brand new music video depicting real lesbian couples showing affection for each other has become an instant hit. And for good reason. The music video At last by Ingileif Friðriksdóttir has gotten a lot of attention. And for a good reason. The song is catchy and the video depicts lesbian couples laughing and kissing
- [Society needs to make space for intersex children](https://gayiceland.is/2018/society-needs-make-space-intersex-children/) - The Human Rights of Intersex People: A New Approach is the name of a symposium that will be held on Saturday the 17th of February. The symposium is organized by Intersex Iceland, Samtökin ’78 – The National Queer Organization of Iceland and Amnesty Iceland and will take place at Building Askja - Room 132 -
- [Only one MP shows up for intersex symposium](https://gayiceland.is/2018/one-mp-shows-intersex-symposium/) - Only one out of the 63 MP's of the Icelandic Parliament showed up for a symposium on the human rights of intersex people last weekend. One deputy MP was also in attendance. However none of the ministers of the Icelandic government attended and in fact not one MP from the parties that form the coalition
- ["Everything about this film is outstanding!"](https://gayiceland.is/2018/everything-film-outstanding/) - One of the most talked about films this year, the Oscar-nominated gay love story Call Me By Your Name, will premier at art house cinema Bíó Paradís in Reykjavík, tonight, Friday January 26th. Hrönn Sveinsdóttir, managing director of Bíó Paradís, is positively gushing about the film, which she says is one of the most beautiful
- [‘The queerest party of the season’](https://gayiceland.is/2018/queerest-party-season/) - Get yours masks ready, because the the annual Pink Masquerade Ball is just around the corner. The party is part of the program for Rainbow Reykjavik, the winter pride festival organized by LGBT travel company Pink Iceland, and will take place at Iðnó Theatre on February 10. With an estimated 350 to 450 guests expected
- [Can our allies eat meat?](https://gayiceland.is/2018/can-allies-eat-meat/) - Should queer people really demand that their allies support causes that do not directly have anything to do with the rights of queer people? Reynir Þór Eggertson voices his opinion on the matter. OPINION A few weeks ago I had an online discussion - call it an argument, if you will - with a Facebook
- [Genderfluid comedian turns trauma into jokes](https://gayiceland.is/2018/genderfluid-comedian-turns-trauma-jokes/) - Andrew Sim is a Scottish stand-up comedian performing at the Scotch on Ice comedy festival in Reykjavík, from February 8-10th. He has an interesting background for comedy, having embraced his bisexuality and gender fluidity, while discussing traumatic family issues in his sets. We talked with Andrew about his offbeat comedy, his non-binary experience and what
- [Winter Pride Warms Up Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2018/winter-pride-warms-reykjavik/) - February may be one of the coldest months of the year in Iceland, but the LGBT travel company Pink Iceland hopes to warm things up with their winter pride festival. Pink Iceland’s seventh annual Rainbow Reykjavík festival will take place from February 8-11, with an exciting program that includes social events in the city, tours
- [Converting children to the ‘homosexual agenda’](https://gayiceland.is/2018/converting-children-homosexual-agenda/) - Debate rages on Facebook as the National Queer Organisation of Iceland continues to educate staff in kindergartens and primary schools on queer issues. Ugla Stefanía writes about the harsh debate. OPINION It’s that time of the year again. And no, I’m not referring to any type of holiday where people meet friends, family and have
- [Bruce the Angry Bear gets his own T-shirt](https://gayiceland.is/2018/bruce-angry-bear-gets-t-shirt/) - The creators of the comic strip figure Bruce the Angry Bear, Jonathan Duffy (Jono) and Einar Valur Másson, have teamed up with GayIceland to launch a T-shirt with a drawing of the well loved, or hated, bear. The T-shirt will be sold this week during Reykjavik Pride. The bear Bruce has thereby made a leap
- [And the person of the year 2017 is ...](https://gayiceland.is/2018/person-year-2017/) - Readers of GayIceland and a jury panel have chosen the person of the year 2017. And that person is ... Anna Kristjánsdóttir! Anna Kristjánsdóttir Anna Kristjánsdóttir was the first trans woman to talk about her gender correction in the local media in Iceland. For decades she was at the forefront in the fight for equal
- [Greta Salóme writes a Eurovision song for the UK](https://gayiceland.is/2018/greta-salome-writes-eurovision-song-uk/) - The Icelandic two times Eurovision contestant Greta Salóme is one of the songwriters of the song Crazy, a song that will compete to be UK’s contribution in this years Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon come May. The song is written in collaboration with the songwriters Emil Lei and Samir Elshay which, like Greta Salóme, were
- [Person of the year 2017: “I feel extremely grateful”](https://gayiceland.is/2018/person-year-2017-feel-extremely-grateful/) - Anna Kristjánsdóttir has been chosen person of the year 2017. Anna is a legend in Iceland. She was the first trans woman to talk about her gender confirmation procedure in the local media and for many years she was the front-person in the battle for the rights of trans people in Iceland. Last year a
- [Linda Bellos and Owl Fisher clash over hate speech on TV](https://gayiceland.is/2018/linda-bellos-owl-fisher-clash-tv/) - Owl Fisher and Linda Bellos debate hate speech on BBC two and now the Internet is on fire. Should hate speech be protected by the laws about free speech? And do universities have the right to no platform speakers that they consider advocates of hate speech? Yesterday morning, January 10th 2018, the news and current
- [New drag group brings the lewdness to town](https://gayiceland.is/2018/new-drag-group-brings-lewdness-town/) - The Icelandic drag scene is enjoying a boom these days, with a record number of shows available to fans of the saucy arts. A new group, House of Strike, has started putting on shows at bar Gaukurinn, downtown Reykjavík, looking to further shake things up. We talked to performer Jackie Moon about the group and
- [Young man assaulted for being gay](https://gayiceland.is/2018/young-man-assaulted-gay/) - Homophobia is very much alive in Iceland and people need to stop acting like it is not, says young gay man who was assaulted in downtown Reykjavík for being gay. Úlfar Viktor Björnsson was walking through downtown Reykjavík last Saturday night, on his way home after a night on the town. Suddenly a man he has
- [Readers of GayIceland elect person of the year 2017](https://gayiceland.is/2017/readers-gayiceland-elect-person-year/) - Now that 2017 is coming to a close we at GayIceland ask for your help to choose the person of the year. All you have to do is send us an email with your choice of the person you think deserves this honor and tell us why you chose that person. We asked Roald Viðar
- [The War Against Christmas: Let’s Rally the Troops](https://gayiceland.is/2017/war-christmas-lets-rally-troops/) - Celebrity drag queen Wanda Starr writes about Christmas - in bloody Iceland. As any probable Trump supporter will tell you, there is a war going on against Christmas. Led by Islamist Muslims, aided by their key backers, the gays and radical feminists, the festival is being torn apart at its very seams. Christmas decorations are
- [Gay couple kicked off plane in the U.S.](https://gayiceland.is/2018/gay-couple-kicked-off-plane-u-s/) - According to one of the men, James MacDaniel, the only reasonable explanation is that it was an act of homophobia. Adding that he will never again take for granted the freedom and safety he experiences in Iceland. James McDaniel and his boyfriend Hafsteinn Himinljómi Regínuson, well-known in Iceland as the drag artist Ragna Rök, where
- [“Christmas isn’t always a good time for queer people”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/christmas-isnt-always-good-time-queer-people/) - If you’re looking to make a friend on Christmas Eve this year, Samtökin '78 has you set. The national queer organization will be holding its second annual holiday dinner on December 24th, where all are welcome to come out for an evening surrounded by friendly faces and holiday cheer. Guðmunda Smári Veigarsdóttir began organizing the
- [“My sexual orientation should not be news”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/sexual-orientation-not-news/) - The first openly gay man to become a minister in an Icelandic government has taken office. He doesn’t think his sexual orientation should be news, but he also thinks it's a good thing if his appointment as minister can help queer people realize that it’s no hindrance to be queer. Guðmundur Ingi Guðbrandsson is the Minister
- [A suspenseful December](https://gayiceland.is/2017/a-suspenseful-december/) - The Queer reading group will be meeting on December 17th at 7pm at the center of the National Queer Organization, Samtökin ‘78, at Suðurgata 3 in Reykjavík, where they are going to talk about the book Bettý by Arnaldur Indriðason. One of the organisers Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir, talked to GayIceland about what they have been
- [Killing a popular Christmas song](https://gayiceland.is/2017/killing-popular-christmas-song/) - Creators of gay comic strip release a brand new video. Bruce the Angry Bear is known and loved by the readers of GayIceland and the new twist on the comic strip, the gay Christmas calendar, has been the delight of many. The creators, Jonathan Duffy and Einar Valur Másson, took the old Christmas song Twelve
- [The FAB party returns in festive mood](https://gayiceland.is/2017/fab-party-returns-festive-mood/) - The men-only FAB party is back, this time with a holiday twist! The popular event returns Friday December 15 at Ægisgarður in Reykjavík, open to anyone who identifies as male. Music will be provided DJ Bistro Boy and DJ Dramatik, with special performances by Drag-Súgur, the Icelandic drag cabaret, and gay icon Páll Óskar. We
- [Hopefully our website is entertaining and educating](https://gayiceland.is/2017/hopefully-website-entertaining-educating/) - samkynhneigd.is a new website in Icelandic that focuses on news and education on gay matters. Behind it are three guys, Frosti Jónsson, Páll Guðjónsson and Matthías Matthíasson, who all have been prominent in the queer community in Iceland. GayIceland asked the three about the website. To begin with, what kind of website is samkynhneigd.is? “Hopefully
- [We wish you a queery Christmas](https://gayiceland.is/2017/wish-queery-christmas/) - The annual Christmas concert of the Reykjavík Queer Choir will take place in Lindakirkja in Kópavogur on December 9th. This is the fifth time the choir hosts a Christmas concert and their conductor, Helga Margrét Marzellíusardóttir, promises audiences a glimmer explosion of Christmas music and pop ballads. Helga Margrét has been the conductor of the
- [Easier to do love scenes with another woman](https://gayiceland.is/2017/easier-love-scenes-another-woman/) - Icelandic actress Heiða Rún Sigurðardóttir, better known as Heida Reed, will be starring in the new Icelandic TV crime-series Stella Blómkvist which will premier in Sjónvarp Símans (Iceland Telecom's TV) tonight, Friday November 24th. Heiða is well-known for her role as Elizabeth Warleggan in the hugely popular BBC-series Poldark but this is her first time
- [The bingo is the beginning of Christmas](https://gayiceland.is/2017/christmas-bingo-beginning-christmas/) - The annual Christmas bingo of The National Queer Organization Samtökin ’78 will be held at Vinabær, Skipholti 33 in Reykjavík, today, Dec 2nd, to the joy of many. The bingo is the start of Christmas cheer for many in the queer community and something people look forward to the whole year. There people attend with
- [A monk at seventeen](https://gayiceland.is/2017/a-monk-at-seventeen/) - The gay owned and operated noodle bar Núðluskálin located at street Skólavörðustígur 8 has for years been one of Reykjavík's most popular restaurants. GayIceland asked owner Sigurður Jónas Eysteinsson to tell us about the food and menu which, as it turns out, is infused by his own unusual story. What attracts people to Núðluskálin is
- [World Aids Day event in Reykjavík today](https://gayiceland.is/2017/world-aids-day-event-reykjavik-today/) - Today, December 1st, is World Aids Day. HIV Ísland will hold an event in Reykjavik to raise awareness and show support for people with HIV. This year’s theme is “Right to Health” and at the event prominent people from the health institutes of Iceland will speak about the situation of sexually transmitted diseases in Iceland.
- [Australian marriage equality: “Why I almost didn't vote”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/australian-marriage-equality-almost-didnt-vote/) - Glen Wolter reflects on Wednesday's result in the Australian marriage law postal survey, and the painfully long two months preceding it. Wednesday morning, at a few minutes past ten, the Australian Statistician announced, during a rather peculiar televised press conference, that nearly 62 percent of participants in a nationwide postal survey – on whether Australian
- [Drag queen recognized for short film](https://gayiceland.is/2017/drag-queen-recognized-short-film/) - A film by local “bio-queen” (biologically female drag queen) Ingunn Mía Blöndal was recently chosen as the short of the week by RÚV (the national broadcasting comany) and has been selected to screen at the upcoming Stockfish Film Festival. Ingunn, who performs as Ursula Vanity with Drag Súgur, created the film “Ursula Undone” as a
- [Gay Icelandic film awarded in the U.S.](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-icelandic-film-awarded-u-s/) - Icelandic filmmaker Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen is picking up some major awards at North American film festivals with his latest movie, Rift (Rökkur). The psychological thriller, which is set in Iceland and centres around a gay relationship, won the award for Best Cinematography at the California Independent Film Festival this month. “Rift was an unusual movie
- [Drag-Súgur celebrates two years anniversary with a huge show](https://gayiceland.is/2017/drag-sugur-celebrates-two-years-anniversary-huge-show/) - The critically acclaimed drag cabaret Drag-Súgur will be celebrating it’s two years anniversary with a anniversary roast tonight and a show on November 24th - at Gaukurinn, where else? Atli Freyr Demantur is the new event manager for the group and he told us all about what to expect on this special night. “Many exceptional
- [Icelandic dancer taking Stockholm by storm](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandic-dancer-taking-stockholm-storm/) - The Saint Edgard is a stage name of one of the brightest stars on the boylesque scene in Stockholm but not many people know that behind that name is a born and bread Icelander: Sigurður Edgar Andersen. He has been living in Sweden for three years making a name for himself in the entertaining world
- [Supporting queer causes is the right thing to do!](https://gayiceland.is/2017/supporting-queer-causes-right-thing/) - When GayIceland brings you stories about the queer community in Iceland, we do it with the support of our wonderful sponsors. Today, we’re happy to announce three local businesses that have recently come on board to show their support for queer rights. Hamborgarafabrikkan (The Hamburger Factory) “The Hamburger Factory is, in our opinion, a restaurant for
- [A diva party for gay, bi, pan and trans women](https://gayiceland.is/2017/party-gay-bi-pan-trans-women/) - A Diva party for women will be held on Saturday November 18 at Nauthóll, situated at Nauthólsvík, Reykjavík's bathing beach area that nestles in the outskirts of Öskjuhlíð forrest in the middle of town - a romantic and glamorous restaurant that seems perfect for the location! The organizers are five women who first got the idea
- [Colombia allows same sex couples to adopt](https://gayiceland.is/2017/colombia-allows-sex-couples-adopt/) - New parents in Sweden have become the first same-sex couple to adopt a child, after Colombian authorities allowed same-sex couples to adopt children from the country. This could mean that same-sex couples in Iceland can soon adopt children from abroad too. Iceland has had an adoption agreement with Colombia for almost three decades and 15
- [Magazine with bare Icelandic men sells like hotcakes](https://gayiceland.is/2017/magazine-bare-icelandic-men-sells-like-hotcakes/) - The Reykjavík issue of bi-monthly male photography, culture and travel publication ELSKA is getting its sixth reprint. Each issue is shot in a different city with local boys posing and telling their stories. To this date, the Reykjavík issue remains the most popular. We talked to editor and chief photographer Liam Campbell about the reprint
- [A book about the first publicly trans woman in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/book-first-publicly-trans-woman-iceland/) - Anna Kristjánsdóttir is a legend in Iceland. She was the first trans woman to talk about her gender correction in the local media and was for decades very visual in the fight for equal rights for trans people. Anna has blogged about her experience as a trans woman for years but now - finally -
- [Skadi performing at Airwaves](https://gayiceland.is/2017/skadi-performing-airwaves/) - Icelandic musician and multimedia artist Skadi Thordardottir will be performing both on and off venue at the Icelandic music festival Airwaves this year. Skadi is a unique and lively performer who has a reputation for agitating her crowd into a fiery frenzy so audiences are in for a treat. “I'm very excited and proud to
- [#metoo: Queer women share stories of sexual harassment and assault](https://gayiceland.is/2017/metoo-queer-women-share-stories-sexual-harassment-assault/) - Following the Harvey Weinstein case women all over the world are stepping forward with stories of sexual harassment and assault under the hashtag “me too”; an idea originally voiced on twitter by actress Alyssa Milano to give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem. Now women are opening up in Iceland and these
- [A new album inspired by partner who came out as trans](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-album-inspired-partner-came-trans/) - A new Icelandic album about a woman's experience of her partner coming out as trans has just been released. The album is called Sinking Island and in a moving post on Facebook earlier this morning the artist María Magnúsdóttir a.k.a MIMRA explains how her own story was the basis for it. GayIceland caught up with
- [New children's book features two-mom family](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-childrens-book-features-two-mom-family/) - “My family” (Fjölskyldan mín) is a new children’s book about different family structures. The book is the debut effort of Ásta Rún Valgerðardóttir, who draws from her own experience of raising a child in a same-sex relationship. GayIceland asked Ásta about her new book and how children react to the concept of same-sex parents. “The story
- [I dreamed of this for over 10 years](https://gayiceland.is/2017/dreamed-10-years/) - The Canadian musician Denique is releasing his first solo album, Shape 1, today, Friday October 6th and he has chosen to release it in Iceland first with a launch party at KIKI bar tonight at 20PM. A Canadian launching an album in Iceland? What is that all about? GayIceland got in touch with Denique and asked
- [From one side of the world to the other](https://gayiceland.is/2017/one-side-world/) - "I had to lose everything to find out what I was capable of." Gay comedian Jonathan Duffy tells readers how his break-up led him on a life-changing journey to Iceland. I had first come to Iceland in 2011 on vacation with my then partner. It was a nice little country with amazing landscapes and interesting people.
- [Trans-team at hospital in need of manpower and funding](https://gayiceland.is/2017/trans-team-hospital-need-manpower-funding/) - More and more people are seeking the assistance of the Trans-Team at the Landspítali University Hospital. A clinical psychologist, who’s a member of the team, says that the team tries to provide the best help they can, but more funding and manpower is needed. “The increase has been massive in the past few years, I
- [Doctor recommends PrEP in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/doctor-recommends-prep-iceland/) - The Chief Epidemiologist at the Directorate of Health has recommended the use of an anti-viral (Truvada) as a prevention for HIV. PrEP is short for „Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis“ and by prescribing an anti-viral medication to people at risk of contracting the HIV virus Chief Epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason believes the spreading of HIV can be reduced further
- [Why do we need gender-neutral toilets?](https://gayiceland.is/2017/need-gender-neutral-toilets/) - The Equality days of all Icelandic universities start today, October 9th, with an opening of an exhibition in all public toilets of the square of the University of Iceland. The exhibition is titled ‘Why do we need gender-neutral toilets?’ and consists of stories from non-binary, trans and intersex people, highlighting queer experiences of hetero-normative design,
- [Drag queens go berserk in new video!](https://gayiceland.is/2017/drag-queens-go-berserk-new-video/) - A new video showing drag queens completely loosing it at a fast food joint in Reykjavík has just been posted online. In the video members of Drag-Súgur can been seen going berserk at Aktu Taktu (Drive and grab), throwing food at employees. However, it's all part of the story-line of a new music video to
- [A Tom of Finland exhibition in Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2017/tom-finland-exhibition-reykjavik/) - A Tom of Finland exhibition opens today at cinema Háskólabío. However a formal opening will be on the evening of Monday in relation to the premier of a new film about the artist at the Reykjavík Film Festival (RIFF). “I know my little ‘dirty drawings’ are never going to hang in the main salons of
- [Dear unknown Icelander](https://gayiceland.is/2017/dear-unknown-icelander/) - Dear unknown Icelander, My name is Yannis and I identify as a able-bodied, cisgender, gay, male individual. I am 35 years old and married to Themis a 30-year-old, able-bodied, cisgender, gay, male individual and this is our story. We were both born and raised in different parts of Greece. We have spent most of our
- [Skyr: The national dish](https://gayiceland.is/2017/skyr-national-dish/) - The fresh cheese product skyr [pronounced scihr] is authentic Icelandic cuisine, and has been traditionally made in Iceland since the settlement. Originally it was made at home, but is nowadays produced in dairy factories. The skyr “tradition“ has survived all sorts of changes in society, and has probably never been as popular as today. Skyr’s
- [Distant voices: Queer foreigners tell their stories](https://gayiceland.is/2017/distant-voices-queer-foreigners-iceland-tell-stories/) - At Reykjavik Pride this year there was an event called Distant voices - stories of foreign LGBTQIA+ People where guests got the chance to hear several people's accounts of what its like to be foreign and queer in Iceland. GayIceland will publish some of the stories as columns in the next few weeks and to
- ["Most gay men have a post traumatic stress disorder"](https://gayiceland.is/2017/pall-oskar-gay-men-post-traumatic-stress-disorder/) - The beloved Icelandic singer and gay icon Páll Óskar has released his first album in nine years. The album, which bears the name The Crystal Album (Kristalsplatan), was sold up front both as a CD and a vinyl record and sold 1.100 exemplars which the singer is delivering personally to each buyer, giving them a
- [Rapid tests for HIV and hepatitis C available at Samtökin '78](https://gayiceland.is/2017/rapid-tests-hepatitis-c-hiv-samtokin-78/) - The National Queer Organization, Samtökin ’78, will for the first time be offering rapid tests for hepatitis C and/or HIV at their headquarters at Suðurgata 3 in Reykjavík tomorrow, Thursday, September 21st. This will be done in cooperation with Icelandic health authorities as part of a national campaign to eliminate hepatitis C. We asked Daníel
- [Asexuals march together at Pride for the first time](https://gayiceland.is/2017/asexuals-march-together-pride-first-time/) - In Iceland there are many misconceptions surrounding asexuality and to the general public asexuality is still relatively unknown, says Gyða Bjarkadóttir a member of a group called Asexual in Iceland (Asexual á Íslandi). The group intends to change that by taking part in this year's Reykjavík Pride parade. It's the first time asexual people in Iceland march
- [One of Iceland's biggest junior colleges hosts a queer week](https://gayiceland.is/2017/junior-college-hosts-first-lgbtq-week/) - A junior college in Reykjavík is hosting a series of events that celebrate, raise awareness and discuss issues relating to the LGBTQAI plus community this week. The programme, which consists of lectures and films about LGBTQAI plus topics, begin today at Verzló (short for Verzlunarskóli Íslands). The week’s nineteen-year-old organizer says having a LGBTQAI plus
- [Elska Magazine: 13 most memorable photoshoots](https://gayiceland.is/2017/elska-magazine-thirteen-memorable-photoshoots/) - Gay men’s magazine Elska is currently celebrating its second anniversary. For two years the editorial team of Elska has brought intimate portrayals of men from across the globe, in photos and writing. In light of that we asked editor Liam Campbell to recount the most memorable photo shoots. 1) Sasha K, Lviv (Ukraine) - “Lviv was
- [Bears on Ice: A life changing experience](https://gayiceland.is/2017/bears-ice-life-changing-experience/) - Bears on Ice (BOI) kicks off today with a record-breaking number of 200 gay men travelling to Iceland to take part in the annual men only festival. Among them are Shaun Shaffer from Seattle and Anthony Jackson from Florida who've been to it on several occasions and are super excited about attending the event which
- [Lesbian drug smuggler meets her fate](https://gayiceland.is/2017/lesbian-drug-smuggler-meets-fate/) - The end is near for fans of Lilja Sigurðardóttir’s Reykjavík Noir trilogy. The final instalment of the series, which follows a lesbian drug smuggler, Agla, and her bank executive lover in the aftermath of the financial crisis, will be hitting the shelves this fall. Although Icelandic readers are eagerly awaiting the third book, the first
- [New award winning gay film to premier tonight](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-award-winning-gay-film-premier-tonight/) - Cinema Bíó Paradís, in collaboration with HIV Iceland, will premier tonight the gay film “120 Beats per Minute”, a heartfelt French drama about the direct action group ACT UP, who fought for social justice for people with AIDS in the 1990’s. The organizers say the film’s topic is still relevant today. “The film competed in the
- [Queer ritual rite: A Shamanic striptease in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/queer-ritual-rite-shamanic-striptease-iceland/) - South African artist Daniel P. Cunningham and British born artist Mark J. Hamilton will be at Kiki Bar in Reykjavík, tonight, Thursday night August 24, with an act that is unique on the Icelandic scene. They call it Queer-Punk performance art, a Shamanic striptease. We at GayIceland were really curious to find out what that
- [Breaking out of society’s conformed gender roles](https://gayiceland.is/2017/breaking-societys-conformed-gender-roles/) - The art exhibition Uppbrot opens today, culture night, Saturday August 19, at Gallerí 78, on Suðurgata 3 at 17pm. GayIcland talked to the artists behind it, Sigga (Sigríður Helga Hauksdóttir) and Madda (Margrét Óskarsdóttir), about their work, collaboration and how they are protesting the male dominant art world and breaking out of society’s conformed gender roles with
- [The gay play that shocked Icelanders](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-play-shocked-icelanders/) - Cinema Bíó Paradís will send direct from a performance of Angels in America in The National Theater in London this August (part 1 shown on August 18 as well as the 19th and then part 2 on August 25 and 26th). It’s a star-studded production which has gotten rave reviews and will be a treat
- [Rainbow roses for Reykjavik Pride](https://gayiceland.is/2017/rainbow-roses-reykjavik-pride/) - For the last three years people have noticed a special kind of rainbow-colored roses being worn by some participants at the Reykjavik Pride Parade. They represent the rainbow community and can be bought at the flowershop Upplifun which is stationed in Harpa Concert Hall near the Reykjavik harbour. The owners of the shop, Árni Einarsson
- [From a grey soviet city to a festival of color, campness and culture](https://gayiceland.is/2017/grey-barren-soviet-city-festival-color-campness-culture/) - Reykjavik Pride takes over the city like it would in any other European capital (learn the lesson, Istanbul) and is a wonderful opportunity for both party and protest. For six days, the queer people of Iceland take to the streets, covering everything in rainbows and glitter, to celebrate their bizarre deviations from the norm and
- [A database dedicated to queer women’s history](https://gayiceland.is/2017/database-dedicated-queer-womens-history/) - The first history database about queer women is in the making in Iceland. According to the researchers this is the first time that queer women’s history will be systematically researched in Iceland and possibly the world. “What little we know about queer people before 1960 is especially scarce when it comes to women or people
- [Fun, creative rainbow treats for all to enjoy](https://gayiceland.is/2017/fun-creative-rainbow-treats-enjoy/) - Omnom Chocolate is sponsoring Reykjavík Pride this year, which is taking place this week. Omnom has created a special chocolate bar, Caramel + Milk, with rainbows and unicorns adorning the wrappings. The chocolate is, like the name gives away, a milk chocolate bar, topped with caramel pieces and coated in more chocolate. “We wanted to
- [Reykjavík Pride: Celebrating Icelandic LGBTQIA+art and artists](https://gayiceland.is/2017/reykjavik-pride-celebrating-icelandic-lgbtqiaart-artists/) - The annual Reykjavik Pride starts today and will take place until August 13th . The theme this year is art and artists and GayIceland asked the chair of the Reykjavik Pride committee, Eva María Þórarinsdóttir Lange, what that meant and if this years Pride would be in any way different from the Prides of former years.
- [People are hungry for more queer history](https://gayiceland.is/2017/people-hungry-queer-history/) - A new book with a collection of academic articles about queer history will be published in Icelandic this August. One of the editors, Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir, says this aspect of Icelandic history has been largely ignored in Icelandic academic writings. “The book consists of six articles and it’s the first time academics in different fields
- [Behind the scenes of Iceland's drag world](https://gayiceland.is/2017/behind-scenes-reykaviks-drag-world/) - During the Pride week bar Gaukurinn will be presenting a photo exhibition by Kaspars Bekeris. A selection of behind the scenes photographs taken during several drag shows and a drag contest in Reykjavik and Akureyri this year. “When I started the project, I wasn’t familiar with this form of art. I had never been to a drag
- [Looked to the Greek myths for inspiration](https://gayiceland.is/2017/looked-greek-myths-inspiration/) - The official song of Reykjavík Pride this year, “Colors of the Rainbow” (Litir regnbogans) is composed by Örlygur Smári, of Eurovision fame, as well as Michael James Down and Primoz Poglajen but the lyrics are by a complete novice, Hólmar Hólm, who admits that he has never written lyrics to a song before, even though
- [Gay Icelanders looking for partners in India](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-icelanders-looking-life-partners-india/) - The only international agency for arranged gay marriages is operated from India and currently has 26 people of Icelandic ethnicity registered. “We have three females and 23 males with Icelandic ethnicity. Most of them are looking for a partner in Iceland itself; only four of them are looking for partners abroad, like in the US
- [Faroe Islands have made a great achievement](https://gayiceland.is/2017/faroe-islands-made-incredible-achievement/) - Icelandic writer, Jónína Leósdóttir, will be reading from her book at an event in Tórshavn in Faroe Islands this evening, prior to the Faroe Pride festival commencing tomorrow where her wife, former PM of Iceland Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, will participate. GayIceland got a hold of Jónína as she was practising reading excerpts from her book in
- [A huge difference between dating sites and a marriage bureau](https://gayiceland.is/2017/huge-difference-dating-sites-marriage-bureau/) - Finding a love that lasts, a partner that fits and is ready to commit for life, is hard enough for anyone but for a homosexual from a culture where it’s forbidden to love someone of the same-sex, it can be even more of a challenge. That is why increasingly more people turn to match makers
- [Guðni Baldursson - In Memoriam](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gudni-baldursson-memoriam/) - Guðni Baldursson, one of the founders and the first chair of the National Queer Organisation Samtökin ’78, has passed away. His is one of the big names in the history of the Icelandic queer battle for equal rights and many remember him with deep gratitude for his tireless work for that cause. Guðni was chairman
- [Is the drag history of Iceland older than believed?](https://gayiceland.is/2017/drag-history-iceland-older-believed/) - We tend to think that drag is a relatively new phenomen in Iceland but photos of patients at the tuberculosis sanatorium at Kristnes from the middle of last century could tell a very different story. Brynjar Karl Óttarsson has studied the life at the sanatorium for 15 years and he is pretty sure that some
- [The goal is to put Iceland at the top of the rainbow map](https://gayiceland.is/2017/goal-put-iceland-top-ilga-rainbow-europe-map/) - The association Trans Iceland was founded ten years ago and has since fought for the rights of Icelandic trans people and been a platform for many of the reforms of trans rights in Iceland. We asked the chair of Trans Iceland, Alda Villiljós, a few questions about the anniversary and the association. Our first question
- [Drag queen star of brand new ad campaign](https://gayiceland.is/2017/drag-queen-star-new-ad-campaign/) - Iceland‘s largest health restaurant chain has put a drag queen at the centre of its new ad campaign. This is the first time a drag artist fronts a huge TV ad in Iceland. Gló, an Icelandic health food chain which is about to expand to Denmark, is using the opportunity to rebrand and will launch
- [Tearing down the gender wall in tango](https://gayiceland.is/2017/tearing-gender-wall-tango/) - Helen Halldórsdóttir opened the first gay friendly, traditional tango club and worked on establishing the first queer tango festival in Buenos Aires. This has lead to her teaching at queer tango festivals around the world. She says that such festivals are now growing more rapidly than traditional tango events. Being from the North, blonde
- [We have a good chance of going far](https://gayiceland.is/2017/good-chance-going-far/) - UEFA Women's EURO 2017 kicked off in the Netherlands on July 16th. Sandra Sigurðardóttir is one of the goal keepers of the Icelandic national team that is participating in the championship and will be going against France tonight. Sandra has played football since she was five years old, but what got her started? “I lived
- [Sigur Rós send a clear message to a notorious queerphobe](https://gayiceland.is/2017/sigur-ros-send-clear-message-notorious-queerphobe/) - Icelandic post-rock band, Sigur Rós, have come up with a brilliant response to Australia‘s Margaret Court homophobic comments by having a special T-shirt made for their Australia gigs later this month. The T-shirt was designed by Andrew Rae, a London based artist, and features both a male and female couple depicted on a coat of
- [Landsbankinn supports Pride parade acts](https://gayiceland.is/2017/landsbankinn-supports-pride-parade-acts/) - Participants in the Pride Parade can now apply for financial support to create the float of their dreams after a Pride Parade Fund was established as part of an agreement between bank Landsbankinn and the board of Reykjavík Pride. Participants in the Pride Parade can now apply for financial support to create the float of
- [New executive director of Samtökin ’78: We are all in this together](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-director-samtokin-78-together/) - Daníel Arnarsson has now been hired as executive director of the National Queer Organisation, Samtökin ’78. Daníel has been active within the organisation since 2014, as well as being politically active in the Left Green Movement, and is in fact one of their deputy members of parliament. GayIceland was curious about the new director: Who
- [New at Whales of Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-whales-iceland/) - The largest exhibition of its kind in Europe just got even more immersive. The Whales of Iceland exhibition, which is also renowned as a one-of-a-kind venue for events ranging from wedding receptions to film festivals, has been given an overhaul aimed at enhancing visitors' experience. Every detail contributes to a sense of wonder and authenticity:
- [The birth of the Icelandic lesbian](https://gayiceland.is/2017/birth-icelandic-lesbian/) - The event “The Birth of the Icelandic Lesbian” – a discussion about the first openly gay women in Iceland in the 1980s - is hosted by Samtökin ’78, the Icelandic National Queer Organisation, and will take place at Suðurgata 3, Reykjavík on 9 March at 8pm. Speakers will be Lana Kolbrún Eddudóttir, first female chair
- [New networking venue for gay men](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-networking-venue-gay-men/) - The Hump Day Social is a monthly social gathering for gay men, locals and tourists alike, to meet up and enjoy the company of others in the community. Last event was a smashing success. The organisers, Todd Kulczyk and Andres Pelaez say there is still much need for safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ people to network.
- [Hateful messages feed the delusion of fame](https://gayiceland.is/2017/hateful-messages-feed-delusion-fame/) - Wanda Starr is a horrible, selfish, sometimes evil drag queen who has made quite a stir with venomous blog posts on the travel site Guide to Iceland. Wanda is Richard Chapman’s alter ego and he has received hateful messages aimed at Wanda. Still he can’t imagine his life without her. “Oh, she’s just horrible. A
- [A new queer anthem](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-queer-anthem/) - The Queer Song is an upbeat summer single by the quirky and fun band Eva. The members actually think that it might very well become an international queer anthem since it entails many letters in the queer alphabet. “The alphabet is getting a bit hefty and we are prepared to update the song if some
- [Trans Lady of the Mountain](https://gayiceland.is/2017/trans-lady-mountain/) - On the 17th of June each year Iceland celebrates its declaration of independence that happened in 1944. The celebration is held all around the country and celebrates Icelandic culture and society. While I have never personally been a fan of national holidays or national celebrations (I actually stay away from them as much as possible),
- [Icelandair's gay ad a huge success](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandairs-gay-ad-huge-success/) - An Icelandair ad, where the protagonists are a gay couple traveling around Iceland, has had record viewings on social media. “We were quite surprised how far the ad has travelled in social media, much farther than we had expected, which is extremely enjoyable,” says Jón Skafti Kristjánsson, brand manager at Icelandair. As reported, a new
- [Gay singer surprises fans with new music](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-singer-surprises-fans-new-music/) - Icelandic singer Bjartmar Þórðarson is surprising fans with the new direction of his latest music. He’s just released the music video for “Hollow,” the first single of his upcoming EP called Deliria. Although Bjartmar may be more well-known for his pop-influenced songs, “Hollow” marks a shift to a darker and more retrospective sound. But aside
- [Icelandic burlesque and drag in New York](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandic-burlesque-drag-new-york/) - The Icelandic queen of burlesque, Margrét Erla Maack, and drag queen Gógó Starr, a.k.a. Sigurður Heimir Guðjónsson, will be performing at New York's famous theater, The Slipper Room on June 24th. Margrét is a veteran there but it will be Gógó’s first show abroad. The funny thing is that they were booked individually and it’s
- [Jóhanna presented with Alan Turing award](https://gayiceland.is/2017/johanna-presented-alan-turing-award/) - Former Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir has been presented with an Alan Turing Award at an event celebrating LGBTQI business, culture and tourism in Tenerife, Spain. Jóhanna is known internationally as the world’s first openly lesbian head of government since her election in Iceland in 2009. She was given the award in recognition of this milestone,
- [Heiðrikur: “Being gay was a bad thing”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/heidrikur-gay-bad-thing/) - Think of a time in your life where you longed for closure. Perhaps you suffered through a difficult breakup or you quit the job that was holding you back. Who knows, maybe you had a traumatic childhood with many obstacles and roadblocks. After going through these life changing experiences, it’s easy to reflect on the
- [One of the most severe syphilis cases in years](https://gayiceland.is/2017/one-severe-syphilis-cases-decades/) - When Ársæll Hjálmarsson went to see a doctor because of problems with his vision, he never imagined he would be diagnosed with one of the most severe cases of syphilis in recent years in Iceland. Syphilis has been on the rise in Iceland since 2014. And, with cases like Ársæll’s, some health professionals are sounding the
- [Trans woman becomes incarnation of Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/trans-woman-becomes-national-personification-iceland/) - For the first time in Iceland’s history, a trans woman has taken on the role of the Lady of the Mountain, the national personification of Iceland, on the country's National Day. Festivities are being held across the country today and in Hafnarfjörður, a neighbouring town of Reykjavík, the town’s organisers asked Eva Ágústa Aradóttir to
- [The OutGames Scandal: Reykjavík would have been perfect](https://gayiceland.is/2017/outgames-scandal-reykjavik-perfect/) - Outrage has replaced the OutGames after the 2017 World OutGames planned to take place in Miami this week were cancelled last minute. Former board co-Presidents of GLISA, Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association, have called upon the current members to dissolve the association and halt all current and future activities. “I fear it‘s all over
- [Icelandic thriller to premiere at Outfest](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandic-thriller-outfest/) - Iceland filmmaker Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen will be going to Los Angeles next month for the North American premiere of his latest film. Rift (Rökkur), a psychological thriller set in Iceland that centres around a gay relationship, will be screened at the LGBT film showcase Outfest. After the film’s international premiere in Gothenburg earlier this year,
- [Icelandair releases new gay commercial](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandair-gay-commercial/) - A gay couple traveling around Iceland, taking in its nature and culture, are the protagonists of a new video advertisement from Icelandair. The company's brand manager says it's natural and important to show diversity. “Icelandair’s customers are as diverse as they are many. We think it’s only natural to reflect that in our marketing material
- [Spent 17 years in gay conversion therapy](https://gayiceland.is/2017/spent-17-years-gay-conversion-therapy/) - Peterson Toscano is both very funny and very serious. After spending 17 years in gay conversion therapy, he’s come out as a comic and queer rights activist. Peterson will be visiting Iceland for a performance hosted by Wotever Iceland at bar Gaukurinn in Reykjuavík on June 1st. There he will be performing scenes from his
- [Time to party!](https://gayiceland.is/2017/time-to-party/) - There’s a new place in town for queer men to party. FAB Party at Ægisgarður is a “men only party” for gay, bi and trans men on May 27. The party is the latest effort to create men only queer spaces in Reykjavík. Last December, a similar men only party was hosted at Ægisgarður by
- [Beautiful bromance that was not supposed to happen](https://gayiceland.is/2017/beautiful-bromance-that-was-not-supposed-to-happen/) - Gay comic strip Bruce the Angry Bear is celebrating a 6 month anniversary. Comedian Hugleikur Dagsson is a special guest illustrator this week. “I guess my character in the strip is a bit more grumpy than the real me. But I don’t mind. I like people to think I’m unapproachable. The strip will also include a new stick
- [Iceland drops in annual ranking of rights](https://gayiceland.is/2017/iceland-drops-annual-ranking-rights/) - For the second year in a row, Iceland has fallen behind other European countries in terms of legal rights and protections for LGBTI people. The 2017 annual review conducted by ILGA-Europe, an international NGO that advocates for the rights of LGBTI people, shows that Iceland has stagnated while other European countries have made advancements in the
- [7 Things you probably didn't realise about Eurovision](https://gayiceland.is/2017/7-things-probably-didnt-realise-eurovision/) - Another year is over, another winner has been announced and another Eurovision hangover has begun to subside. This is a time of year when a number of people reflect on the competition that was and the one that is to come, so I thought I would share some insight. In 2016 I was a member
- [Tormentors in Cechnya should be punished](https://gayiceland.is/2017/minister-foreign-affairs-people-behind-violence-cechnya-punished/) - The news from Chechnya, where gay and bi-sexual men are being tortured in concentration camps, have made many world leaders react strongly. Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel has protested to Russian president Vladimir Putin and more leaders of the free world have also mouthed their protest. But where does the Icelandic government stand in this
- [Free rainbow popcorn in time for Eurovision](https://gayiceland.is/2017/free-rainbow-popcorn-just-time-eurovision/) - Chocolate maker Omnom has developed rainbow popcorn and a pride bar for Reykjavík Pride. Everyone who pays a visist to Omnom Chocolate Factory Shop at Hólmaslóð 4 in Reykjavík today, Tuesday the 9th of May, between the hours of 11 AM - 6 PM, will get a taste of the popcorn for free – one
- [10 Things you'll likely do after a long-term relationship ends](https://gayiceland.is/2017/10-things-youll-probably-long-term-relationship-ends/) - In the last couple of months I have spent a great deal of time thinking about the past two years. There have been so many changes and I made the decision (sometimes it feels like a mistake) to write a new show about it all and take that show to the place where the story
- [Svala: “I’m going to give it my all tonight”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/svala-im-going-give/) - And just like that, another winter has come and gone, which means one thing … and no, we’re not talking about summer. We’re talking Eurovision! It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost one year since Greta Salomé nailed it with her performance in Stockholm and now it's Svala's turn. Having been performing since the age of seven,
- [Lip sync battles and taboo questions](https://gayiceland.is/2017/lip-sync-battles-taboo-questions/) - An Evening with Jonathan Duffy is a brand new show featuring stand up comedian Jonathan Duffy. It will play at Tjarnarbíó theatre starting from May 5th. “I am a fan of variety shows and used to be a guest on a lot of live variety shows in Australia. They’re great because you never really know what is
- [My marriage puts me in a privileged position](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-marriage-puts-privileged-position/) - Edoardo Mastantuoni, also known by his Icelandic name Játvarður or simply Varði, is an adjunct lecturer and Head of the Department of Italian at the University of Iceland. He first visited Iceland in 2002, when he was 21 years old, and felt socially at ease immediately. He found great support from his immediate family when he
- [Everything you ever wanted to know about being queer](https://gayiceland.is/2017/everything-ever-wanted-know-queer/) - Hinsegin frá A til Ö (loosely translated as: Queer from a to z) is a new website that‘s about to be launched. The subtitle could very well be “Everything you ever wanted to know about queerness” since it will contain a lot of educational matter on queer issues - written in Icelandic. Íris Ellenberger and
- [It will be a wild show!](https://gayiceland.is/2017/wild-show/) - A drag extravaganza is coming to Reykjavík. Tonight, Wednesday night, Loft Hostel will be hosting Australian drag queen Shae den Freude, who will be joined by local queen Mighty Bear. It’s not the first time Loft has brought in an international queen to perform for Reykjavík audiences. In the past year, they’ve brought in British
- [Wants to reignite the awareness about HIV](https://gayiceland.is/2017/wants-reignite-awareness-hiv/) - Todd Kulczyk is an American counselor who recently moved to Iceland and has joined the team of councilors at national queer organization Samtökin ’78 where one of his fields of speciality will be counseling HIV-positive people, their families and loved ones. He wants to reignite the awareness of HIV and not least the plight of
- [Nothing wrong being in an open relationship](https://gayiceland.is/2017/nothing-wrong-open-relationship/) - A new Icelandic film, Snow and Salóme, premiers tonight. The film includes a story of gay male couple that falls in love with an Australian tourist. Snjór og Salóme - Snow and Salóme - a brand new Icelandic feature film written and directed by Sigurður Anton, will premier tonight, Friday April 7th. The film´s story follows
- [A way to broaden children’s horizons](https://gayiceland.is/2017/way-broaden-childrens-horizons/) - The Reykjavik International Children’s Film Festival starts in cinema Bíó Paradís today, Thursday, March the 30th. More than twenty films will be shown, classics as well as new releases, feature films and shorts. Oddný Sen, project manager for film education at Bíó Paradís, says that one of the purposes of the film festival is to
- [Non-binary couple “tie the knot” to protest laws on marriage](https://gayiceland.is/2017/non-binary-couple-tie-knot-protest-laws-marriage/) - “Owl and Fox can’t get married” is the title of a new documentary film being made in the U.K. There the well known non-binary couple Owl and Fox, aka Ugla Stefanía Jónsdóttir and Fox Fisher, explore the situation that non-binary people are facing when it comes to the law. It‘s being crowd funded on GoFundMe,
- [Eurovision winner Dima Bilan in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/eurovision-winner-dima-bilan-iceland/) - Eurovision superstar Dima Bilan is currently in Iceland. The Russian, who was the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2008 with the hit song Believe, came to the country a few days ago, according to his Instagram account. From the information on Dima's social media, the singer seems to be staying in an apartment
- [New dad proceeds with gender transition](https://gayiceland.is/2016/new-dad-proceeds-gender-transition/) - One of this year’s most travelled, and heart-warming, articles of GayIceland was the story of Henrý Steinn, a new dad in the North of Iceland, who happened to be the first Icelandic man to give birth during a gender transition process. The story was picked up by media all over the world, including UK’s Daily
- [New board takes office at Samtökin '78](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-board-takes-office-samtokin-78/) - The annual meeting of national queer organization Samtökin ’78 took place last Saturday, March 25th. Only one person ran for chair this year, María Helga Guðmundsdóttir, and therefor remains chair. The same goes for secretary Álfur Birkir Bjarnason, treasurer Benedikt Traustason and international secretariat Kitty Anderson. “We want to heartily thank everyone who showed up and took part for
- [Greta Salóme: “We're really going all out”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/greta-salome-going/) - Tonight Icelandic mega star and two-time Eurovision contender Greta Salóme will join forces with none other than Alexander Rybak at Hof music hall in Akureyri. The pair is bringing a spectacular show to the north of Iceland and then to Reykjavík tomorrow, when they take on Harpa. We caught a brief moment with Greta. Our first question to her was:
- [Eurovision drawing deemed too much for Icelandic audience](https://gayiceland.is/2017/eurovision-drawing-much-icelandic-audience/) - The Icelandic national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest took place on Saturday and viewers mostly agree that the show was outstanding. However things took a bit of an unexpected turn when the host of the evening asked one of the guests to show his "Eurovision inspired" drawings. Host Ragnhildur Steinunn Jónsdóttir was interviewing cartoonist, writer and comedian Hugleikur Dagsson when the
- [The beer boom](https://gayiceland.is/2017/the-beer-boom/) - In Iceland beer has never been as popular as it is right now. With so many new micro- or craftbreweries producing different styles of beers to choose from and new bars specializing in beer there seems to be no end to the variety of choices. Specialist thinks it safe to say that microbreweries are leading
- [The Eurovision Song Contest: Iceland takes it to the next level](https://gayiceland.is/2017/eurovision-iceland-plans-raise-bar-kiev/) - Singer Svala Björgvinsdóttir will be representing Iceland in The Eurovision Song Contest, in Kiev this year, after winning the Icelandic national selection for the contest last night. GayIceland's Lilja Katrín Gunnarsdóttir was there. “I had such belief in this song and knew I could be proud of it, no matter what happened,” said one of Iceland’s most
- [New gay thriller](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-gay-thriller/) - Rift, the second feature film of Icelandic director Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen, recently premiered at the Göteborg Film Festival and is on it’s way to make the festival rounds. It is a story of two guys who have recently broken up, a psychological thriller with horror elements. Filmed on location in a remote spot in Iceland.
- [“I’ve always had a yearning for justice”](https://gayiceland.is/2017/ive-always-yearning-justice/) - What do queer people, disabled people, people of foreign origin and fat people have in common? How can these groups work together and learn from each other? These questions and others will be examined at the conference Disturbing Existence on March 3-4. The keynote speaker will be Lydia XZ Brown, Autistic Hoya, an American activist
- [Ban on rainbow armbands lifted: A technical mistake](https://gayiceland.is/2017/ban-rainbow-armbands-lifted-technical-mistake/) - The Icelandic Players’ Union has sent a press release stating that the ban on rainbow armbands, during yesterday’s handball matches at the cup finals, is based on a technical mistake, or „misunderstading“. According to the press release The Icelandic Players’ Union got an exemption from IHF‘s (The International Handball Federation) regulations on captains armbands in
- [Handball players forbidden to wear rainbow armbands](https://gayiceland.is/2017/handball-players-forbidden-wear-rainbow-armbands/) - Captains of the women’s handball teams were forbidden to wear rainbow-colored armbands as a sign of support for queer rights during yesterday’s matches at the cup finals in Iceland. Chairman of The Player‘s Union of Iceland hopes that captains of the mens‘ teams will wear theirs in today’s matches. “We are of course extremely disappointed
- [Must one be gay to desire to be with another man?](https://gayiceland.is/2017/must-one-gay-desire-another-man/) - The French film director and screenwriter Alain Guiraudie, will be an honorary guest at the Stockfish Film Festival in Reykjavík this year. Although he‘s been making films for over 30 years, mostly focusing on gay sex and the fluidity of sexuality, he was only recently discovered by the wider audience when awarded the Queer Palm
- [Bridging the gap between age groups](https://gayiceland.is/2017/bridging-gap-age-groups/) - HinUng is a new association for queer people between the ages of 18 and 25, meant to be a bridge between the Young queers association and the Q-association of queer students at the University of Iceland. “We want to create a safe environment for people of this age that have recently come out as well
- [We have to expand the concept of equality](https://gayiceland.is/2017/expand-concept-equality/) - Þorsteinn Víglundsson is the Minister of Social Affairs and Equality in Iceland‘s new government. He means to keep up the work of his predecessor, Eygló Harðardóttir, and improve the situation of queer people in Iceland. GayIceland paid him a visit and grilled him about his intentions and his knowledge of queer issues in Iceland. It’s
- [A gay cruise to Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gay-cruise-iceland/) - With an explosion in the tourism industry and an estimate of almost 2 million people visiting Iceland in 2017, it was only a matter of time when a gay cruise around Iceland would be offered. This summer, Source Events, which specialise in adventure and luxury tours for the gay community, will embark on their first
- [A new phalloplasty technique used in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2017/new-phalloplasty-technique-used-iceland/) - Alexander Björn Gunnarsson is the first trans man to undergo radial forearm phalloplasty in Iceland. The surgery was performed last week by Doctor Hannes Sigurjónsson, a plastic surgeon that has specialized in gender reassignment surgery. “I‘m told that the surgery went exactly by the book and that I‘m recovering by the book too, there have been no complications.
- [Queer people unite at national assembly](https://gayiceland.is/2017/queer-people-iceland-unite/) - The national queer organization of Iceland, Samtökin '78, will hold a national assembly of the queer community, "Samtakamátturinn" 2017, at Reykjavík City Hall on February the 11th. Time to form a policy for the future, says chairman. “In an organization like Samtökin ’78 it’s vital to maintain a regular dialogue with it’s members and others
- [Winter Pride attracts record numbers](https://gayiceland.is/2017/winter-pride-attracts-record-number-guests/) - Rainbow Reykjavík, Iceland's Winter Pride, begins this Thursday, February the 9th. Organizers say that a record number of participants will be attending. “This is an exceptional chance for foreign guests to enjoy Icelandic nature and experience the local LGBT+ scene, with queer entertainment of the highest caliber,” says Birna Hrönn Björnsdóttir, co-founder and owner of travel agency and
- [Football coaches to get queer lessons in future](https://gayiceland.is/2017/icelandic-football-association-implements-queer-education-coaches/) - Queer education was included in a coaches’ course at The Icelandic Football Association (Knattspyrnusamband Íslands, KSÍ) last weekend, for the very first time. A supervisor says that from now on it will be part of KSÍ's training. “There were 35 participants in the course and I’ve only heard positive things from them about the input,” says Dagur
- [TV show on queer rights in Iceland attracts attention in Estonia](https://gayiceland.is/2017/queer-rights-iceland-attract-attention-estonia/) - The Estonian TV investigative programme "Eyewitness" (Pealtnägija) sent one of it‘s editors, Piret Järvis, to Iceland to make a programme about same-sex marriage in Iceland and compare it to the rights of queer people in Estonia. The programme recently aired and received lots of positive response. But why do a program about queer rights in Iceland?
- [Australia -  Iceland by rollercoaster](https://gayiceland.is/2017/australia-iceland-rollercoaster/) - Jonathan Duffy has come far. Literally. This Australian comedian has made Icelanders laugh until they cry on several stand-up events in the past two years. On Saturday he brings on stage in Tjarnarbíó his most personal work, Australiana. “The show is all about what it was like growing up in Australia, what I miss about it
- ['Ladyboys' are just bewildered lovely girls](https://gayiceland.is/2017/ladyboys-just-bewildered-lovely-girls/) - The Icelandic photographer Gísli Hjálmar Svendsen has spent the last two years, on and off, in Thailand where he follows a group of self titled 'ladyboys' and photographs them in their daily lives. He means to publish the photos in a book and thereby diminish the prejudices that they experience in modern society. “It's so sad,“
- [A groundbreaking film that tackles taboos](https://gayiceland.is/2017/groundbreaking-film-tackles-taboos/) - Moonlight is one of the most talked about films of last year and got awarded as the best motion picture – drama at the Golden Globes. What‘s unusual about it is that it chronicles the life of a young gay black man from childhood to adulthood. The film will have it‘s premier in Iceland today Friday,
- [Rapid HIV and Hepatitis C tests available in Iceland for the 1st time](https://gayiceland.is/2017/rapid-hiv-hepatitis-c-tests-available-iceland-first-time/) - Men who practice sex with other men have a great opportunity to get tested for HIV and Hepatitis C in the next few weeks when quick and easy tests will become available in Iceland for the very first time. Ingibjörg Rósa and Lilja Katrín Gunnarsdóttir report. “These tests, from OraSure, are very easy to use but need
- [Guðjón Valur: Supports LGBTI+ community by wearing rainbow shoe at World Championship](https://gayiceland.is/2017/gudjon-valur-supports-lgbti-community-wearing-rainbow-shoe-world-championship/) - The World Championship in men’s handball is now taking place in France. Iceland have their first match tonight and the team’s captain, Guðjón Valur Sigurðsson, will be showing his support for LGBTI+ rights, by sporting the rainbow flag on his shoe. Guðjón Valur is considered one of the world’s best handball players and has had
- [“It does not matter if you‘re gay, lesbian, trans or whatever, it‘s just about feelings“](https://gayiceland.is/2017/not-matter-youre-gay-lesbian-trans-whatever-just-feelings/) - The Icelandic film Heartstone has won the hearts of critics and audiences around the world since it had it‘s premier at the Venice film festival in September. It has been screened at 16 film festivals around the world, winning in total 17 awards including best actors for it‘s young stars, Baldur Einarsson and Blær Hinriksson, at the Marrakech
- [GayIceland presents: An extremely offensive, gay cartoon character](https://gayiceland.is/2016/gayiceland-presents-extremely-offensive-gay-cartoon-character/) - Comedian Jonathan Duffy and illustrator Einar Másson have created a comic strip called Angry Bears which will be featured weekly on GayIceland - starting tomorrow. The humor is dark and Einar is a bit nervous the two-some will offend readers. Jonathan says the protagonist is the voice of reason, raising a series of uncomfortable questions.
- [“Of course she is still my dad“](https://gayiceland.is/2017/course-still-dad/) - Hannes Óli Ágústsson is an actor who, in collaboration with the stage group Trigger Warning, is staging the show She‘s my dad at the City Theatre‘s small stage. Hannes Óli is playing himself in the productions which deals with his reaction to his father coming out as the trans woman Anna Margrét a few years
- [Not being queer will be a challenge](https://gayiceland.is/2016/not-queer-will-challenge/) - Helga Baldvins Bjargardóttir is the newly hired director of Samtökin ’78 and will take office in January. Helga has a law degree with specialisation in human rights. She also holds a BA in social pedagogy and for the past two years she’s been a consultant at Stígamót - Education and Counseling Center for Survivors of
- [Ugla: Resowing history](https://gayiceland.is/2016/ugla-stefania-resowing-history/) - If the Icelandic trans rights movement of the past few years has a mastermind, it just might be Ugla Stefanía. The 25 year-old Icelandic-born activist has helped shift the mainstream’s idea of the gender binary and has been fearless in discussing their personal experiences with people from all over the world, including a sold out
- [New Years Eve in Reykjavík is unique](https://gayiceland.is/2016/new-years-eve-reykjavik-unique-experience/) - Guðni Kristinsson grew up in the Icelandic countryside where Christmas and New Years Eve were celebrated in the traditional way with smoked leg of lamb, leafbread, going to church, reading, and in general just inhaling the peace and quiet of the country. That's not his style anymore. Now he spends New Years Eve with a
- [A men only party you don't want to miss!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/men-party-dont-want-miss/) - Icelandic gay popstar Páll Óskar is throwing a special party "For Men Only" at brewery/club Ægisgarður, Eyjaslóð 5, Grandi, Reykjavík Iceland, on Saturday December 17th. All men welcome - regardless of sexual preferences. Páll Óskar will not only belt out his biggest hits supported by his sexy dancers, but also DJ to make sure the floor jumping all
- [Former lovers can pose the greatest threat](https://gayiceland.is/2016/former-lovers-can-pose-greatest-threat/) - Oktavía Hrund Jónsdóttir is back in Iceland. Permanently. That is one of the reasons she has agreed to talk about her work as a queer activist to a web magazine, with her picture next to her name. Because her work has taken her to places where being queer is not only dangerous to your status
- [Ideal for introverts](https://gayiceland.is/2015/ideal-for-introverts/) - Recently a queer knitting group was founded in Reykjavík by Sana Shaikh and her friend Anna Stína Gunnarsdóttir. On the group’s Facebook page they describe it as a hobby group for LGBTQIA and queer friendly people with an interest in knitting, crochet, quilting, embroidery, or basically any kind of craft. They meet twice a month at
- [Pop, rock and a hint of classical music](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pop-rock-hint-classical-music/) - ABBA, Gloria Estefan, Jeff Buckley and Leonard Cohen are artists who are usually not associated with Christmas concerts but these names are all on the repertoire of the Queer Choir’s annual Christmas concert. “We’ll have a blend of Christmas songs and non-Christmas songs. Music that is arranged for choirs but in various genres; pop, rock and
- [An index that protects LGBTI+ employees](https://gayiceland.is/2016/index-protects-lgbti-workers/) - The Ministry of Welfare is shaping a workplace equality index, that could be used to assess and certify whether Icelandic companies meet the right criteria and lead a good example in looking out for the rights and well-being of LGBTI+ workers. The index, which is being shaped in co-operation with Samtökin ’78, is based on an European model,
- [We must protect the rights of LGBT+ people](https://gayiceland.is/2016/must-protect-rights-lgbt-people/) - The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Iceland urges world leaders to safeguard the rights and interests of LGBT+ groups around the globe. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Iceland, Lilja Dögg Alfreðsdóttir, addressed the general debate of the General Assembly’s seventy-first session last week. When discussing education, human rights and
- [Páll Óskar to host his first men only party](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pall-oskar-host-first-men-party/) - One of Iceland’s most beloved musician, Páll Óskar, will be hosting his first men only party in Reykjavík on December the 17th. He says it’s the perfect chance for men to meet each other in the flesh and hopefully hook up. “This is a private party for men only, but special men only events have been few and far between
- [One of Iceland's longest living Christmas plays is back!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/one-icelands-longest-living-christmas-play-back/) - One of Iceland’s longest-living Christmas play, Ævintýrið um Augastein, or The Adventure of Augasteinn, will be performed every Sunday during Advent at Tjarnarbíó theatre in down town Reykjavík. The play, which is written by the singer, actor and multi-tasker Felix Bergsson, premiered in London in 2002 and in Iceland the following year. Since then it
- [Whom am I allowed to kill?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/whom-am-i-allowed-to-kill/) - The annual book flood is upon us and crime fiction as usually topping the bestseller lists. Two of our prominent female crime writers, Lilja Sigurðardóttir and Jónína Leósdóttir, are lesbians and GayIceland was curious to know if that is a crucial factor in their writing. We decide to meet to discuss this question in the
- [Drag is about the right to take control of your life](https://gayiceland.is/2016/drag-right-take-control-life/) - Oscar Wilde is quoted to have said: "Give a man a mask and he will tell you the truth". Those words can certainly be applied to the drag show Drag-Súgur which will be celebrating one year of showtime this Friday. It started out as a small show who originated in the minds of drag queens
- [A clear violation of human rights](https://gayiceland.is/2016/violation-human-rights/) - The many issues that intersex people have to face will be discussed at a symposium at the University of Iceland this afternoon, Monday November the 14th. “Intersex issues have been swept under the rug for a very long time. Generations of intersex people have been told that society won’t be able to understand their issues
- [Val McDermid: Getting the feel of Iceland through crime fiction](https://gayiceland.is/2016/val-mcdermid-getting-feel-iceland-crime-fiction/) - One of the biggest stars in the world of crime fiction, Val McDermid, will attend the Iceland Noir literary festival next week. Although none of her books have been translated to Icelandic, blood thirsty readers have sunk their teeth in her books in English or bitten their nails watching Wire in the Blood, a thrilling
- [Up mount Esja in drag](https://gayiceland.is/2016/mount-esja-full-drag/) - Next Saturday Hjálmar Forni Sveinbjörnsson will climb mount Esja in drag as his alter ego, Miss Gloria Hole. Hjálmar will walk to the top of the 914 meter high mountain in high heels, to raise awareness and money for HIV Ísland. “I’m used to walking on heels and walking on mountains but I don’t know
- [Ed Sheeran to perform in Iceland next year?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/ed-sheeran-perform-iceland-next-year/) - The immensly popular singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran could possibly perform a concert at Kórinn concert venue in Iceland next year, according to GayIceland’s sources. The sources claim that Icelandic entertainment and event company Sena is in talks with Ed Sheeran’s management team, Rocket Music Management, and is trying to get an Iceland concert included in Ed’s
- [World famous crime writer visits Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/star-crime-writer-visits-iceland/) - World renowned crime writer, Val McDermid, is on her way to Iceland to swear and discuss queer crime fiction! That‘s right, the Scot queen of Tartan Noir is one of the biggest names on the bill for this year‘s Iceland Noir, happening in Reykjavík 17-20 November. McDermid will be keynote speaker at the opening reception
- [Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir awarded in Quebec](https://gayiceland.is/2016/johanna-sigurdardottir-awarded-quebec/) - Former Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir was awarded an honorary award at the annual rainbow gala hosted by the Quebec LGBT Council in Montreal, Canada. Jóhanna accepted the award at a ceremony in Quebec. Jóhanna, who not only became Iceland's first female Prime Minister on February the 1st in 2009 but also the world’s first openly lesbian head
- [Elections: The political parties on LGBTI+ rights](https://gayiceland.is/2016/political-parties-lgbti-rights/) - The parliamentary elections or the so-called Alþingiskosningar will be held tomorrow, October the 29th, and the race is shaping up to be an exciting one with twelve parties running. But what exactly are their stance on LGBTI+ rights? To shed some light on that GayIceland asked the chairs (or spokespersons) the three following questions (repeated throughout the text to make things clear): 1. Are
- ["Horror movies are queer to their core"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/horror-movies-queer-core/) - Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen has been attached to movie making since he was a kid. He started out making short films and music videos while he studied literature at the University of Iceland. When he finished his BA-degree in literature he applied for MFA in movie making at Columbia University in New York and was accepted.
- [Dr. Óttar Guðmundsson is simply wrong](https://gayiceland.is/2016/dr-ottar-gudmundsson-simply-wrong/) - Ugla Stefanía, who is a known activist in Iceland, rejects the claims dr. Óttar Guðmundsson put forward in an interview, which was published on GayIceland this morning. Ugla says that contrary to what dr. Óttar says, trans people in Iceland are urged by health care officials to dress and act in a certain way in order to get appropriate
- [Blood donations and gay sex discussed within The Icelandic Independence Party](https://gayiceland.is/2016/blood-donations-gay-sex-discussed-within-independence-party/) - The Icelandic Independence Party has always guarded the rights of LGBTI+ people, says a city counselor running for congress for party. According to the counselor blood donations and gay sex have even been discussed with in the party. “The Icelandic Independence Party (Sjálfstæðisflokkurinn) is maybe first and foremost known as a conservative party by some people
- [Head of trans health care team rejects allegations](https://gayiceland.is/2016/head-trans-health-care-team-rejects-allegations/) - Dr. Óttar Guðmundsson, the head of a trans health care team at the National University Hospital in Iceland, rejects allegations, that he and his team are making trans people reform to the old-fashioned and out dated ideas about gender roles, in order to get the health care they need. The criticism was put forward in a recently released video on trans health in
- [10 reasons why we love this magazine](https://gayiceland.is/2016/10-reasons-love-magazine/) - It's a year now since the first issue of the British gay men's erotic/travel magazine Elska came out - bringing intimate portrayals of men from across the globe. GayIceland has been there from the beginning, reporting on the magazine's escapades and so we thought it was only fitting to celebrate the one-year anniversary, by putting together a list of reasons why we simply
- [Trans people declare the Icelandic health care system inhumane](https://gayiceland.is/2016/trans-people-declare-health-care-system-inhumane/) - Iceland has a long way to go when it comes down to framing the health care service in a way that is fair, humane and up to date with the newest and best regulations about trans related health care. This is the grim conclusion of a new video where trans people describe their experience of the
- [Wotever night: A party that breaks the norms](https://gayiceland.is/2016/party-breaks-norms/) - Tomorrow night Wotever Iceland will be hosting an evening at Gaukurinn, labelled Rainbow Friday, where queer performers will take to the stage, followed by some heavy DJ-ing to get the dance floor bouncing. The event is a part of the so called Wotever Nights that are becoming quite popular in Reykjavík. “The name comes from the fact that these nights are
- [Reality TV star posts hot pics from Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/reality-tv-star-posts-hot-pics-iceland/) - American reality TV star Jake Nodar recently spent eight action packed days in Iceland. The highlights of his trip was traveling to the highlands and the Icelandic men. Jake also made quite a scene at the Glacier Lagoon, posing almost naked on a unicorn raft. “After filming both Naked and Afraid in the Amazon, and Naked
- [Absence of queer history not down to homophobia](https://gayiceland.is/2016/absence-queer-history-not-homophobia/) - The absence of queer history in museum exhibitions in Iceland has more to do with the shortage of research in the field of queer history and thoughtlessness, rather than with any unwillingness on behalf of museum curators to present what material there is, says a specialist at the National Museum of Iceland in an open letter to
- [Dealing with differences is part of being human](https://gayiceland.is/2016/dealing-differences-part-human/) - In a meeting tonight, Samtökin '78 the National Queer Organisation of Iceland, presented an action plan that aims to increase transparency and get more people to take part in an open conversation about where the organisation is heading. María Helga Guðmundsdóttir, the newly elected president of the organisation, says that after the tumultous times within
- [LGBT lives just as important as heterosexual ones](https://gayiceland.is/2016/lgbt-lives-just-important-heterosexual-ones/) - Author Lawrence Schimel will take part in Mýrin the international children’s literature festival in Reykjavík that starts today. There he will be discussing one of his children' books which have a gay family, as well as engaging in other events. In an interview with GayIceland Schimel says it’s extremely important to include LGBT+ characters in children’s books so they reflect
- [No obligation to cover queer issues](https://gayiceland.is/2016/no-obligation-cover-queer-issues/) - In an interview with GayIceland, Dr. Magnus Gestsson, a lecturer at the University of Iceland, criticizes Icelandic museums for shunning queer history. Margrét Hallgrímsdóttir, Director General of The National Museum, and Kristín Dagmar Jóhannesdóttir, chair of the board of ICOM Iceland, reject the allegations. They say it's a misunderstanding that the museums don't cover queer issues. However,
- [Queer history shunned by museums in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/magnus/) - A lecturer at the University of Iceland (Háskóli Íslands) claims that public museums are disregarding their duty to represent the whole nation, by shunning queer issues. The lecturer wants to bring queer history into light. “Public museums have a responsibility towards society and social groups, it’s their duty to bring queer history into light, as a
- [Provocative and pioneering art](https://gayiceland.is/2016/provocative-and-pioneering/) - Hrafnkell Sigurðsson has just opened a solo exhibition titled Hvítt ljós / Rauður hiti (White light / Red heat) in Gallerí ’78 at Suðurgata 3 in Reykjavík. The exhibition is in line with Hrafnkell’s previous works where his own body is a vital part in his creations. “I'm showcasing one old piece and one new that
- [Bio queens: Just as much a queen as the boys](https://gayiceland.is/2016/bio-queens-every-bit-much-queens-boys/) - Girls as drag queens, what‘s that about? Kristrún Hrafnsdóttir, alias Jenny Purr, and Ingunn Mía Blöndal, aka Ursula Vanity, will be on stage at the 10th show of Drag-Súgur this Friday and show you how it‘s done. To get to know them and their queens better, GayIceland summoned them to a café and put them
- [It’s important to keep the dialogue open](https://gayiceland.is/2016/important-keep-dialogue-open/) - Kristján Andri Stefánsson is Iceland's new Ambassador in France and is already in Paris with his partner Davíð Samúelsson, well-known to many for promoting South-Iceland to our visitors and introducing the Faroe Islands to Icelanders. Together with his partner, Kristján will thus be the first gay Ambassador to be posted abroad by the Icelandic foreign service.
- [New Icelandic gay film getting great response](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelandic-gay-film-getting-great-response/) - Heartstone, the first full length film by Icelandic director Guðmundur Arnar Guðmundsson, premiered at the film festival in Venice to rave reviews, which culminated in the film getting the Queer Lion Award last Friday as Best Movie with LGBT Themes & Queer Culture. The verdict of the judging committee was that Heartstone was awarded “For
- [President of Iceland: “If I can help then I’m honoured to do so”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/president-iceland-can-help-im-honoured/) - The new President of Iceland, Mr. Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, will make world history already on his sixth day in office, when he addresses participants and spectators of the Reykjavík Pride Parade today, Saturday August 6th. Mr. Jóhannesson was elected the 6th President of the Republic on 25th June and was inaugurated on 1st of August.
- [Fox Fisher: “Being out is a form of activism”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/fox-fisher-form-activism/) - Trans Iceland has invited the British filmmaker and trans activist Fox Fisher to come to Iceland and do a workshop for those interested in making videos and shortfilms about the trans experience of the health system. Fisher will be hosting the workshop tonight, on the 3rd of August, at Eggertsgata 2 in Reykjavík. To get to
- [8 ways to piss off queers](https://gayiceland.is/2016/8-ways-to-piss-off-queers/) - It's springtime in Iceland, when the sun shining in the morning means that you'll be buried under a mountain of snow by noon. It's the season which brings out the irony in Icelanders and so in that spirit here are eight surefire ways for you cis straight folk out there to piss your queer friends off
- [María Helga new chair of Samtökin ’78](https://gayiceland.is/2016/maria-helga-new-chairman-samtokin-78/) - María Helga Guðmundsdóttir was elected chairman of Samtökin ’78, the national queer organization, at the organization’s annual meeting yesterday. María was elected with 184 votes but the runner-up, Kristín Sævarsdóttir, got 152 votes. María Helga has been acting as chairman since May of this year when Hilmar Hildar Magnússon resigned. Over 300 members of Samtökin
- [Unknown or naughty?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/unknown-or-naughty/) - “I’ve been working on two studies recently that fit well into the theme of the symposium. The theme is Óþekkt, or Unknown, which in Icelandic can mean something that people don’t know but also translates to something or someone being naughty,” says historian Íris Ellenberger. Íris takes part in a symposium at Reykjavíkurakademían on Saturday
- [Children happy with gender neutral hero](https://gayiceland.is/2016/children-happy-gender-neutral-hero/) - A new Icelandic children's book allows readers to decide whether one of the protagonists is a girl, a boy or not. The authors confess that writing the book was a challenge since it's hard to be gender neutral in Icelandic. “This was a fun challenge, but quite more difficult than I had imagined. The text
- [Nothing's off limit](https://gayiceland.is/2016/nothings-off-limit/) - They are roaring with laughter, that cannot be missed by anyone close to the top of hill Arnarhóll in the city centre; the people who have gathered around the statue that represents Iceland‘s "first settler" Ingólfur Arnarson. In the middle of the group is a stand-up comedian telling stories about Ingólfur, which are the source of
- [National queer student union in the making](https://gayiceland.is/2016/national-queer-student-union-making/) - Icelandic secondary schools are currently planning to found a national queer student union. Þórhildur Elínardóttir Magnúsdóttir, chairman of the newly founded queer student union at secondary school Menntaskólinn við Hamrahlíð, says that the intention is to make schools more open and queer friendly. Before we ask you about the national queer student union, tell us a bit about your newly founded
- [Postcards featuring men of Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/postcards-featuring-men-iceland/) - Iceland based men are featured in a fun and playful collectors’ card set from Elska magazine. The men were all shot for the Reykjavík issue of Elska but editor Liam Campbell hopes to visit Iceland and it’s lads again in the near future. The next destination could be Akureyri. “We decided to give cards to
- [Voice your opinion](https://gayiceland.is/2013/voice-your-opinion/) - “We'll have a fantastic party.” "We're very excited about the meeting. I think it will be a fun day where different people from our community come together to discuss the future of our organization,” says Anna Pála Sverrisdóttir, president of The National Queer Organization of Iceland (i. Samtökin ’78 or just S78) about "a
- [Gay festival in US inspired by Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/gay-festival-us-inspired-iceland/) - A gay festival in the US has adopted an Icelandic format. One of the main men only events in Seattle takes inspiration from the second biggest queer event in Iceland. “I think it’s wonderful. They wanted to create a similar festival to ours in Seattle. We thought it was a great idea, so they went for it,”
- [Trans students can change names at school](https://gayiceland.is/2016/trans-students-can-change-names-school/) - The University of Iceland has now made it possible for students undergoing gender reassignment process to change their names within the school. The head of Trans Iceland believes it's a step in the right direction and hopes for more positive change. “We can imagine that this process is extremely difficult for these students,” says Anna Birna Halldórsdóttir, head
- [Fun and glamour at the movie premiere of VIVA!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/fun-glamour-premiere-viva/) - It’s safe to say that the atmosphere at the premiere of VIVA! at Bíó Paradís last week was electric, colorful and everything in between. The premiere was in collaboration with GayIceland and it’s safe to say that the movie really made an impact on moviegoers that night. VIVA! centers around a young gay man who
- [First bar in Iceland to remove gender signs](https://gayiceland.is/2016/first-bar-iceland-remove-gender-signs/) - Gender signs have been removed from the restrooms at the bar Gaukurinn in the city center of Reykjavík in an effort to make them gender neutral. Owner and manager of the bar, Sólveig Johnsen, says it’s discriminating that some people don’t feel comfortable going to the bathroom because of gender signs and wants to do
- [All gender neutral toilets not the answer](https://gayiceland.is/2016/gender-neutral-toilets-not-answer/) - Klaustur Downtown Bar has had gender neutral restrooms, in addition to gender specific restroom, since it opened in late 2014. The CEO, of the company that runs the bar believes in the right to choose and therefor thinks that having both gender neutral and gender specific bathrooms is a step in the right direction. “I
- [Animal lovers unite in concert tonight](https://gayiceland.is/2016/animal-lovers-unite-concert/) - The concert Hvalir live! will be held tonight at the museum Whales of Iceland and fittingly many animal lovers will perform, such as Högni Egilsson, Sóley, Sin Fang and DJ Margeir. The concert’s aim is to celebrate whales that are alive and well and also to applaud the biggest petition in history where the government
- [“We encourage people to be themselves”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/encourage-people-be-temselves/) - The Icelandic Psychological Association will take part in the Reykjavík Pride Parade tomorrow, Saturday August 6th. This marks a turning point in the parade since this will be the first time a professional association takes part in it. Hrund Þrándardóttir, president of the association, says their message in the parade is clear - to encourage
- [Movie theater becomes a Cuban drag venue](https://gayiceland.is/2016/movie-theater-becomes-cuban-drag-venue/) - Tonight Bíó Paradís, in collaboration with GayIceland, will premiere VIVA!, a film that centers around a young gay man who dreams of becoming a drag queen, but first has to face off his “demons”. Hrönn Sveinsdóttir, managing director at Bíó Paradís, promises that it will be a premiere like no other. “That's right,” says Hrönn with
- [Queer animals more common than believed](https://gayiceland.is/2016/queer-animals-common-believed/) - Everything You Know About Sex is Wrong: Part 1—The Gender Binary is the title of a lecture that Abby Hafer will give at the national queer organisation Samtökin '78, tomorrow (Thursday) at 20PM. “You will hear about lots of queer animals, and other interesting things as well,” she promises and my curiosity is instantly awoken. Wait are
- [Icelandic bar removes gender signs](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelandic-bar-removes-gender-signs/) - Gaukurinn, a bar in down town Reykjavík, has removed gender signs from their restrooms, the first bar to do so in Iceland. Sólveig Johnsen, owner and manager of the bar urges other managers to do the same. “And not just bars and clubs but all public places. Someone has to take the first step and
- [Mayor of Reykjavík on a float for the first time](https://gayiceland.is/2016/mayor-reykjavik-float-year/) - For the first time ever in the history of the Reykjavík Pride Parade, the management team for Reykjavík Pride will join the parade on a float. And to top it off, the mayor of Reykjavík, Dagur B. Eggertsson, and others from the city council will join them. “The last years there has been talk about
- ["We support queer rights!"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/support-queer-rights/) - GayIceland brings you the latest news and stories from the queer community in Iceland. We're proud and happy to be backed by companies, organisations and wonderful people who believe that queer rights matter. Here is what they have to say. Íshestar “We're simply opposed to discrimination. In our eyes everyone is equal whether they are queer
- [Back to the beginning: Using joy as a weapon](https://gayiceland.is/2016/back-start-using-joy-weapon/) - Thirty years after the Stonewall riots in New York in June 1969, the national queer organization Samtökin ‘78 wanted to commemorate the event by having a small festival in Reykjavík. Although news of the event were only spread by word of mouth about fifteen hundred people showed up, much more than expected. “It surprised me
- ["Do what you fucking want to do!"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/do-what-you-fucking-want/) - The airplanes are packed, the Keflavík airport gets busier, the streets in Reykjavik become brighter and people are generally happier. Of course, the Icelandic summer draws a huge number of tourists but for one special week, these numbers triple in size: it’s Reykjavik Pride! The festivities are endless: mesmerizing drag shows, live music, sexy dance
- [For the world to see](https://gayiceland.is/2015/world-see/) - A live web feed from the Reykjavík Pride Parade. The Reykjavík Pride Parade draws thousands of spectators from all over the country every year. Unfortunately not everyone is able to attend, especially those who live outside the city and abroad. Therefore Míla is offering people the chance to see a live web feed of the
- [Rvik Pride 2013 starts tomorrow](https://gayiceland.is/2013/rvik-pride-2013-starts-tomorrow/) - One of Reykjavik's most colorful and popular events start tomorrow! Yes you got it rigt, we're of course talking about Reykjavik Pride! The festivities are now being held for the fifteenth time. Like before there will be a loads of fun attractions, entertainment and off-venue events, ranging from outdoor concerts to wild parties and everything in
- [I'm closer to a lesbian than a gay man](https://gayiceland.is/2016/closer-lesbian-gay-man/) - “There's a lot of different kinds of comedy. There's comedians who do one liners, puns, props and lots of other types. I'm a story-teller. I like my audience to feel like they're sitting in my apartment after we've all been out. I like them to feel like it's just a small group and we're sharing
- [Páll Óskar: "I'm investing in the future"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pall-oskar-im-investing-future/) - Musician Páll Óskar Hjálmtýsson is a pop culture icon in Iceland, and around Europe after his memorable performance in the Eurovision Song Contest of 1997. And from the start of the Pride Parade in Reykjavík, or for 18 years, his float has always been one of the most anticipated entries. Everyone is welcome to participate
- [Lesbian cruise to Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/olivia-lesbian-travel-iceland/) - The world‘s biggest lesbian travel company, Olivia, is preparing a cruise around Iceland next summer; the trip sold out as soon as the new destination was announced. Olivia was founded in 1990 and organizes holidays for women to most corners of the world, from Antarctica to Scandinavia and now soon, Iceland. The cruise begins in
- [Reykjavík Pride: “Of course it’s bananas”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/reykjavik-pride-course-bananas/) - The Reykjavík Pride festival is just around the corner, starting tomorrow on August the 2nd and ending with a bang on the 7th. Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir and Vilhjálmur Ingi Vilhjálmsson are in the management team for the festival but the theme this year is History. They both agree that it’s crucial to look back on
- [Why do we have to define ourselves all the time?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/why-define-ourselves/) - Ásthildur Gunnarsdóttir is the vice chair of the national queer organisation, Samtökin '78. Her agenda is first and foremost to get rid of stereotypical outlook on queer people. She knows what she is talking about as she was in heterosexual relationships until she was 28 years old and after that in a same-sex relationship and since then many
- [The new Pride song is out!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/reykjavik-pride-song/) - The new official Reykjavík Pride song has just been released, and it's a cool Europop song with a tropical vibe. The song is called “We Can Unite” (Við getum sameinast) and is the first song specifically composed for Reykjavík Pride. It's performed by singer, director and actor Bjartmar Þórðarson and written by Eyþór Úlfar Þórisson, Birgir Steinn Stefánsson and
- [A penis painting of the President of Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/penis-painting-president-iceland/) - Under the artist name Perró, Axel Diego has painted several notable Icelandic figures with his penis. Including presidential candidates, musician Gylfi Ægisson and the President and the First Lady of Iceland. “I painted the presidential couple having ‘a cozy time’ on a chaise lounge,” says Axel with a grin, unwilling to go into further detail
- [A gay village in northern Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/gay-village-northern-iceland/) - In the northern part of Iceland, in Mývatnssveit, you will find a property of land called Arnarvatn. At first sight you won't see anything different about this small village consisting of four houses. But if you look a bit closer you will find that fifty percent of the inhabitants are gay. Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir is one
- [Full passes for men only festival sold out](https://gayiceland.is/2016/passes-men-only-festival-sold-out/) - More than 150 foreign guests are expected to show up for the annual men only festival Bears on Ice, which will be held in Reykjavík 1.-4. September. Full Event Passes for the festival are already sold out. “We are delighted by this great response to our festival,“ says Frosti Jónsson, the organizer of Bears on Ice.
- [The man behind TF-GAY](https://gayiceland.is/2016/man-behind-tf-gay/) - Remember GayIceland’s article on TF-GAY, the one that went viral? Well, meet the man who came up with the plane's registration code: Ögmundur Gíslason, a gay pilot working for WOW air, who says that he was totally surprised that WOW air decided to roll with it and even more shocked by the attention it got. “Skúli Mogensen is a very intelligent
- [Police investigating more hate crime cases](https://gayiceland.is/2016/police-hate-crimes/) - In January this year the Icelandic police launched a development project with the special aim of looking into hate crimes in Iceland. Eyrún Eyþórsdóttir, who is leading the project, says the increase in hate speech and hate crimes is really worrying and that the police fears that as queer people and immigrants become more visible in Icelandic
- [New safe-sex campaign features football rivals](https://gayiceland.is/2016/new-safe-sex-campaign-features-football-rivals/) - A new safe sex campaign showing fans of rival countries from the Euro 2016 Championships has just been launched. Among the countries featured in the ads are Belgium and Iceland. The campaign is based on a series of risque photos showing models painted in the traditional colors of their respective countries, along with their rivals. The body paint is smudged to
- [Iceland made me strong](https://gayiceland.is/2016/iceland-made-strong/) - Brian Harris had a bit of a shock when he moved to the Westman Islands, but says that it was a life altering experience which taught him a valuable lesson. Imagine you’re going to be an exchange student for a whole year. You’re sixteen, you want to escape your small town in USA, and the world
- [We can't leave anybody behind](https://gayiceland.is/2016/cant-leave-anybody-behind/) - With the upcoming Women's Rights day on June the 19th GayIceland is bringing light to the issues of queer women. Reporter Lilja Katrín Gunnarsdóttir spoke to three very different women who shared their thoughts on feminism and queer rights. No one is free while some of us are oppressed Ugla Stefanía Kristjönudóttir Jónsdóttir has been extremely zealous the
- [The lesbian immigrant](https://gayiceland.is/2015/lesbian-immigrant/) - In the gay community in Uganda we always say ALUTA CONTINUA- the struggle continues. Will you join the struggle? Where does one start? It seems like this journey has gone on for a life time. Not just for me but hundreds and thousands of others. What am I talking about? Good question. The life of
- [The Pride parade: For better or worse?](https://gayiceland.is/2015/pride-parade-better-worse/) - Ok, I know it isn’t due for another two and a half weeks, but it’s something that I really need to talk about. To get off my chest. But before I do, before I go on, I wan’t to stress that I don’t want to be misunderstood. This is not written to judge or offend
- [World AIDS Day: Our past struggle, a time to remember](https://gayiceland.is/2015/past-struggle-time-remember/) - Today, 1st of December, is the World AIDS Day. Sigurður Júlíus Guðmundsson has some thoughts on the disease that has impacted the queer community in such a deep way. The 31st of October marked the 40th anniversary of the release of one of the greatest rock songs in music history. Millions, even billions, of people
- ["We have a son"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/we-have-a-son/) - I’ll never get tired of saying that. His name is Daníel Valur and he was born late in 2014. He has soft red hair, 8 teeth, grunts when he wants things, his favorite food is bananas and liver sausage (but not together) and he loves playing with spoons. My husband Ágúst and I have written
- [BDSM: Let's vote again](https://gayiceland.is/2016/bdsm-lets-vote/) - In a few days from now, the members of Samtökin ‘78, the queer national organisation of Iceland, will have a chance to vote again for or against the acceptance of The Icelandic national BDSM organization as a member-organization. As stated in S78’s laws, any organization that aims to protect human rights and has agendas that co-align
- [Nothing to fight for](https://gayiceland.is/2015/nothing-left-fight/) - Have we done it? Can we pack up and go home? Are we ... equal? Psychiatrist Óttar Guðmundsson probably didn‘t mean to offend anyone* when he wrote a column (published yesterday) about how queer people are facing a crisis because they have nothing left to fight for. But he did. In fact, his column sparked a wave
- [Presidential candidates on queer rights](https://gayiceland.is/2016/presidential-candidates-queer-rights/) - The Icelandic presidential election will be held on June the 25th. The race is shaping up to be an interesting one with nine candidates running. We decided to ask what their thoughts are on queer rights. We asked them two questions: Will you exercise your power to fight for the queer rights movement if elected president?
- [Icelandic man gives birth to baby girl](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelandic-man-gives-birth-baby-girl/) - There’s a beaming new dad living in the north of Iceland who is experiencing all aspects of parenthood, having given birth to his own daughter, and even breastfeeding her. “I love it, I come from a big family with lots of babies, my daughter is my mother’s tenth grandchild and for as long as I
- [Exploring Iceland – one island at a time](https://gayiceland.is/2016/exploring-iceland-one-island-time/) - “No man is an island, entire of itself,” said the English poet John Donne in 1624. Apart from the obvious literary truth, we understand from his words that human beings do not thrive without company. Islands, by themselves, may not amount too much. But when you group them together, they can combine their qualities to outdo
- [What does it really mean to be queer?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/really-mean-queer/) - Last Saturday was a pretty historical day for the queer movement in Iceland. Last Saturday, there was a general vote and the members of Samtökin '78 voted for BDSM á Íslandi (BDSM in Iceland) to officially be a part of the local queer umbrella. I, for one, am STOKED about the results. For the last few
- [Pinkwashing or not? That is the question](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pinkwashing-support-question/) - So, let‘s say this politician, company, city council or government just did something outrageous in support of queer people. Perhaps they made a public statement supporting gay marriage, walked in the pride parade, brewed a beer with a rainbow-colored label in support of pride week, chastised a foreign city for cracking down on pride parades
- [The lesbian experience is having a moment](https://gayiceland.is/2016/lesbian-experience/) - The crime writer Lilja Sigurðardóttir made Icelandic history with her latest novel “The Trap” (Gildran). The main protagonist is a lesbian cocaine smuggler called Sonja, by no means your average heroine in a crime novel – or any novel, for that matter. The story of Sonja was an instant hit and the film rights have
- [Surreal that millions listened to my music](https://gayiceland.is/2016/juvicsa/) - An Iceland based musician is the brain behind the opening theme of a brand new show that aired on the largest TV-network in Indonesia last Sunday, April 24th. “I feel really proud that all these people listened to my music, it’s just great,” says Juvicsa Vela, an aspiring musician living in Iceland, when asked what
- ["I went to a queer summer camp, by mistake!"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/went-queer-summer-camp-mistake/) - Last summer Saga Eir Svanbergsdóttir decided to go on a vacation with a relative to a place called Rittergut in Lützensommern in the south of Germany. What Saga initially didn't know is that the plan was to go to a summer camp for LGBT youth. “Well, it was actually a misunderstanding, Saga gleefully explains and laughs. “My cousin, who
- [Queer Pirates?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/queer-pirates/) - The Pirates, Iceland's “largest” political party, are currently forming a special group within their midst with a focus on queer related issues. The inaugural meeting will be held at Gaukurinn on June 18. GayIceland interviewed the organizers. “Queer Pirates are very similar to the Pirates. We want fundamental structural changes in society just like the Pirate
- [SE Randy Berry: "You can build love and hope out of a tragedy"](https://gayiceland.is/2016/se-randy-berry-love-hope-tragedy/) - US Government’s Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTI persons, Randy Berry, will participate in an online panel discussion in Bíó Paradís tonight, following a screening of the documentary “Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine”; an event hosted by The American Embassy in Iceland in co-operation with GayIceland. We spoke to Berry about hate
- [Matthew Shepard’s story more relevant now than ever](https://gayiceland.is/2016/matthew-shepard/) - The American Embassy in Iceland and GayIceland are hosting a screening of the film “Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine”at Bíó Paradís tomorrow night, at 17.30. Jason Marsden, a friend of Matthew and the executive director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, will take part in an online discussion after the screening. The film “Matt Shepard
- [The Nordic sports associations discuss queer education](https://gayiceland.is/2016/nordic-sports-associations-queer-education/) - Queer education for coaches was among the subjects discussed at an annual meeting on coach education between ÍSÍ, the National Olympic and Sports Association of Iceland, and its Nordic counterparts. ÍSÍ’s office manager in Akureyri says that ÍSÍ is looking into the possibility of providing coaches with additional educational material on queer matters from the other Nordic
- [Queer summer camp becomes an instant hit](https://gayiceland.is/2016/queer-summer-camp-becomes-instant-hit/) - A queer summer camp that will be held in Iceland in July has proven to be so popular that organizers have been forced to put applicants on a waiting list. “We started this project because we felt the need for it, but we didn't expect that the reaction on this scale. The number of applications are
- [Coaches to receive queer education](https://gayiceland.is/2016/coaches-receive-queer-education/) - Queer education will from now on be implemented in coaches’ training. The secretary-general of ÍSÍ, the National Olympic and Sports Association in Iceland, encourages sports clubs to be vigilant to queer prejudice. “We reacted immediately by having a meeting with representatives from Samtökin ’78 and Styrmir, where we discussed how we could increase awareness within the organization. As a result,
- [We have to ensure the rights of queer people](https://gayiceland.is/2016/ensure-rights-queer-people/) - As reported last week, Iceland only ranks number 14 on the 2016 Rainbow Europe Chart. Shocking news for those who believe Iceland is somewhat a utopia for LGBTI+ people, GayIceland contacted the Ministry of Welfare in Iceland to get their reaction. Why is it that Iceland is falling behind other European countries in LGTBI+ rights? “ILGA’s
- [Icelandic gay erotica sold to France](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelandic-gay-erotica-published-france/) - Best selling author Sigríður Jóhanna Valdimarsdóttir, better known by her pseudonym Erica Pike, has sold the rights to some of her work to a French publisher. The first book is scheduled to come out in France in November “This was a complete surprise. At first I wasn’t sure what to think. But now that I know
- [Iceland is not a queer Utopia](https://gayiceland.is/2016/iceland-not-queer-utopia/) - Iceland has fallen far behind the other Nordic countries regarding laws which ensure that LGBTI people have legal rights. The ILGA-Europe’s 2016 Rainbow Europe chart, published this week reveals an increasingly unequal picture of developments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people across Europe and that Iceland is now in 14th place regarding the legalised
- [The Redefinition of Greta Salóme](https://gayiceland.is/2016/redefinition-greta-salome/) - Being a woman of many hats isn’t always an easy thing. Especially in show business, too often artists are being pigeonholed into specific genres and styles that may not always represent their full creative capability. These stamps can be claustrophobic but for Greta Salome, Iceland’s latest Eurovision hopeful, this is old news. Growing up a
- [Christoph Waltz's pants play a pivotal part](https://gayiceland.is/2016/christoph-waltz-pants-tom-finland/) - Þorsteinn Bachmann, the actor who stole the thunder in ‘Life in a Fishbowl’ (Vonarstræti) and took a dramatic plunge in the recent Nordic Noir TV series ‘Trapped’ (Ófærð) will next be seen on the big screen as an American porn producer in the gay film ‘Tom Of Finland’. To get the look just right he wore trousers from
- [Tom Of Finland: The man who altered gay culture](https://gayiceland.is/2016/tom-of-finland/) - One of the highlights of the Berlinale film festival this year was the press conference held in order to introduce the feature film “Tom Of Finland”, directed by the hottest director in Finland these days, Dome Karukoski. Tom himself will be played by the Finnish actor Pekka Strang and the Icelandic actor Þorsteinn Bachmann, who
- [If you weren't into girls, you'd be gay](https://gayiceland.is/2016/werent-girls-youd-gay/) - Icetralia is a stand up comedy show that features Australian gay comedian Jono Duffy and Icelandic comedian and cartoonist Hugleikur Dagsson. They have worked together for a few months now, most often performing at Cafe Rosenberg in Reykjavík and this weekend they‘re taking the show to Copenhagen where neither of them has performed before –
- [“I’m ovulating, are you interested?” - Icelandic girls on online dating](https://gayiceland.is/2016/online-dating-girls/) - How should you behave when dating on the internet? Do pick-up lines actually work? What's the most embarrassing thing you've experienced after meeting someone off a dating app? We decided to get together a group of girls to answer these questions and more and started by asking which app they think is the best. Ásdís: “Tinder is the only dating app that
- [ÍSÍ, Samtökin '78 and Styrmir to fight queer prejudice in sports](https://gayiceland.is/2016/isi-styrmir-samtokin-78-fight-queer-prejudice/) - The National Olympic and Sports Association of Iceland, ÍSÍ, met today with Samtökin '78 and Styrmir Sports Club to discuss how the three organisations can tackle queer prejudice with in the sports movement in Iceland. The chairman of Styrmir says that he's very pleased with the outcome of the meeting. “It was a great meeting,
- [Guðjón Valur: Coaches need queer education](https://gayiceland.is/2016/gudjon-valur-coaches-queer-education/) - Guðjón Valur Sigurðsson, captain of the Icelandic men’s national handball team and player with FB Barcelona Handbol, says that queer education should be part of coaches’ training and integrated in every leader’s learning. And that frankly, players’ sexual orientation shouldn’t be made into an issue at all because it has no effect on the team spirit. As
- [Drunk dining 101](https://gayiceland.is/2015/drunk-dining-101/) - It's been a long night of dancing and drinking and your facing the eternal question of: "Shall I continue brave, or yield to go home and live to fight another day?" Be it as it may, for either choice you need after-hour fuel. Here's a look at the top spots to get just that in
- [Páll Óskar: Iceland's Queen of Pop](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pall-oskar-icelands-queen-pop/) - It’s about 10.30pm in Reykjavík. As the winter gets shorter, the skies are getting lighter and for Páll Óskar, his days seem to be following the sun. After all, it’s an exciting time for Iceland’s queen of pop; he was recently voted “musician of the year”, he sang the official theme song for the 30th
- [WOW air: TF-GAY is ready for take-off](https://gayiceland.is/2016/tf-gay-is-ready-for-take-off/) - In a declaration of support for queer rights Icelandic airline WOW air has named one of its new Airbus planes TF-GAY. Founder and CEO of WOW air, Skúli Mogensen, says that the aircraft’s name fits perfectly into the company’s concept of what it means to be a modern family in a multicultural society. “WOW air is an
- [Hera Björk: Eurovision fans are the best](https://gayiceland.is/2016/hera-bjork-eurovision-fans-best/) - There’s music in the air. It’s a time of year where acts from all over Europe are gearing up for the next era of “Eurovision 2016”, which will be held in Stockholm in early May. For some, it might be the first time they tune in. For others, like Iceland’s very own vocal powerhouse Hera
- [A taste of Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2016/a-taste-of-iceland/) - In Iceland culinary classes are becoming increasingly popular among tourists who want to try their hand at local cooking. Auður Ögn Árnadóttir, owner of Salt Eldhús, says it's understandable, since the best way to get to know any country is through your taste buds. “Traditional Icelandic food has been our focus point ever since we first
- [Queer athletes are ignored and silenced](https://gayiceland.is/2016/queer-athletes-ignored-silenced/) - Karate instructor María Helga Guðmundsdóttir thinks it's important to open up a discussion on queer prejudice and bullying in sports in Iceland and has posted about it on Facebook. Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir met María Helga and started by asking what prompted her to speak up. “Well, I was having dinner at a karate training camp
- [Samtökin '78: More than willing to assist ÍSÍ](https://gayiceland.is/2016/samtokin-78-willing-assist-isi/) - The director of Samtökin '78, the national queer organisation, is familiar with cases where athletes have had a tough time with in sports in Iceland because they're queer. She says that the organisation is willing to assist The National Olympic and Sport Association of Iceland, ÍSÍ, with queer education. Auður Magndís Auðardóttir, director of Samtökin '78, says she is not
- [ÍSÍ has to fight homophobia](https://gayiceland.is/2016/isi-fight-homophobia/) - From time to time the discussion arises that there is a need to deal with queer prejudice within The national Olympic and Sports Association of Iceland, ÍSÍ, but still little has been come out of it. Jóhanna Ýr Jónsdóttir and Roald Viðar Eyvindsson spoke to athletes who say they're getting tired of ÍSÍ's inadequacy to tackle the matter and want the board to take
- [ÍSÍ: “We have to eliminate prejudice”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/isi-eliminate-prejudice/) - The National Olympic and Sports Association of Iceland claims it's designing a queer education talk for the clubs within the association. Its secretary-general fears that it’s harder for gay men to come out in the world of sports than women. Líney Rut Halldórsdóttir is the secretary-general of The National Olympic and Sports Association of Iceland
- [Icelanders are a bit sensitive to criticism](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelanders-sensitive-criticism/) - One of the journalists at Iceland Monitor, the English section of news site mbl.is, recently wrote a hilarious article on Icelish, pointing out 5 things that native English speakers need to realise about Icelanders speaking their language. Things that Icelanders don't necessarily like to have pointed out to them. “I would say that I am now
- [A record number of people seeking help](https://gayiceland.is/2016/record-number-people-seeking-help/) - Last year saw an explosion in numbers of people seeking counseling at the national queer organisation of Iceland, Samtökin '78, when the numbers of interviews nearly doubled. In 2014 there were 81 interviews but in 2015 there were 145. Sigga Birna Valsdóttir, one of the counselors at Samtökin '78, says that a big part of
- [Icelandic penis museum sees rise in visitors](https://gayiceland.is/2016/penis-museum-sees-boom-visitors/) - Last year The Icelandic Phallological Museum saw a huge increase in visitors. The museum's curator says that the new year is already off to a good start. “I‘m happy that we‘re getting such a generous proportion of the growth in tourism. Actually I‘m thrilled about it,” says Hjörtur Gísli Sigurðsson curator and owner of The Icelandic Phallological
- [Find your inner diva](https://gayiceland.is/2016/find-your-inner-diva/) - A Diva party for queer women will be held at restaurant Iðnó at Vonarstræti 3 in Reykjavík on Saturday, March 12th. A group of women decided to throw a fancy dinner party and dance to shake things up. If it becomes a success the party might even become a regular event. “We got the idea to organize
- [First wedding inside Langjökull glacier](https://gayiceland.is/2016/first-wedding-inside-langjokull-glacier/) - As if getting married doesn’t cause enough nervous tremble to any bride and groom, saying “I do” at zero degrees added an icy crust to one shivering couple’s big day. “I must admit, I had a slightly bigger knot in my stomach than usual. There were just so many factors I had no control over
- [Online dating in Iceland: Local lads open up](https://gayiceland.is/2016/stefnumot/) - If you find yourself single or have given up on finding the right match with conventional methods your best bet is to meet people through dating apps. But that world is a jungle with so many options to choose from which can drive anyone a bit mad. So we decided to ask a few queer
- [“You’re not alone”](https://gayiceland.is/2016/family/) - A support group for parents and family members of queer youth has been founded. The group intends to meet at Samtökin '78 (the national queer organisation), Suðurgata 3, Reykjavík, on the last Tuesday of every month. “The aim of the group is very simple: it's intended for parents and other family members of queer children and
- [I just really, really wanted to be 'normal'](https://gayiceland.is/2016/really-really-wanted-normal/) - Ragnar Birkir is a single parent of three girls, living in Innri-Njarðvík and working at the local primary school and as a Herbalife distributor. At night he sometimes transforms into the drag queen Ina Vagina and performs with Drag-Súgur. He was seventeen when he first came out as gay but a few years later he had
- [Icelandic company goes gay in new commercial](https://gayiceland.is/2016/icelandic-company-goes-gay-new-ad/) - Icelandic Water Holdings hf. has just joined a growing number of companies that are showing queer characters in their ads. The company's Chairman and Co-founder Jón Ólafsson says that it felt like the right thing to do. And he's very happy with the positive response. “Well it felt like the right thing to do, just very natural,
- [Weddings already booked for 2019](https://gayiceland.is/2016/pink-iceland-2/) - The number of weddings that queer travel agency Pink Iceland organize doubled last year and this year is already looking very busy. Tours involving wedding ceremonies are now the agency‘s main aspect and it already has weddings booked for 2019. “The figure more than doubled between 2014 and 2015 and now we already have twice as many weddings
- [Söngvakeppnin: First semi-final reviewed](https://gayiceland.is/2016/songvakeppnin-first-semi-final-reviewed/) - The first semi-final of Söngvakeppni 2016 went down last Saturday, and after a 100 percent televoting, the nation brought Greta Salóme's “Raddirnar”, Erna & Hjörtur with “Hugur minn er” and Karlotta Sigurðardóttir with “Óstöðvandi”, one step closer to Stockholm. Ingó's “Fátækur námsmaður”, EVA's “Ég sé þig” and Sigga Eyrún's “Kreisí” were left in the semis.
- [John Grant: Struggling with the darkness](https://gayiceland.is/2015/john-grant-struggling-darkness/) - I said “wank” to John Grant! How embarrassing! The Icelandic language is to blame; the Icelandic word for wanking can also be short for a couple of Icelandic names and it just came up when I was explaining the –ng/-nk rule to John. That’s what happens when one language nerd interviews another. His Icelandic sounds
- [School removes restroom signs](https://gayiceland.is/2016/school-removes-restroom-signs/) - An Icelandic elementary school has removed gender signs from its bathrooms in an effort to become "gender neutral". The principal thinks that other schools should do the same. “One simply has to be conscious about the fact that we are not all the same and everybody has the right to be as they are; That
- [Author Sophie Labelle: Crushing the patriarchy](https://gayiceland.is/2016/sophie-labelle-crushing-patriarchy/) - There's so much more to Sophie Labelle than her vibrant pink locks. From inside the walls of her old classroom in Northern Canada, to her cozy Montreal flat, she is not your average girl next door. An elementary school teacher turned trans-author, cartoonist and public speaker, Sophie has become a voice for trans communities around the
- [Ban this filth!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/ban-this-filth/) - GayIceland's story on "the gender neutral primary school" has gotten an overall positive response, not only in Iceland but also worldwide. However there are those who seem to be morally offended, shocked, angered, outraged and quite "outspoken" after hearing the news and some even think that the school officials should be scolded for their actions. Of course it wouldn't
- [Wants to make Icelanders proud](https://gayiceland.is/2016/wants-make-icelanders-proud/) - Travellers coming to Iceland just love tasting traditional Icelandic food. Chef Gísli Matthías Auðunsson realized this when he opened his new restaurant Matur og Drykkur (e. Food and Drink) in Reykjavik. The restaurant has been frequented by foreign – and Icelandic - visitors since the opening in January 2015. “I had been running a restaurant
- [Söngvakeppnin: What do the experts think?](https://gayiceland.is/2016/songvakeppnin-experts-think/) - In February twelve songs will compete for the chance to represent Iceland in The Eurovision Song Contest. We spoke to a panel of experts and asked what they think about the finalists. Our first question was: Which songs will do well in this year's Söngvakeppni? Reynir: “That's a rather tricky question, since I have a hard time choosing
- [Sleeping pods popular](https://gayiceland.is/2016/galaxy-pod-hotel/) - Sleeping capsules are gaining popularity on the accommodation market in Iceland. The country‘s first pod hostel opened up in Reykjavik in December and will be doubling the number of capsules in June. Iceland is one of the first countries in Europe to offer this kind of accommodation to travelers. Sverrir Guðmundsson is the brain behind Galaxy Pod Hostel, a new hostel
- [Concert with a cause](https://gayiceland.is/2014/concert-with-a-cause/) - It was truly moving and a privilege to have been at the fundraising concert for the LGBT community in Uganda held in Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik on Thursday March the 6th. The Icelandic National Queer Organization and Amnesty International in Iceland organized the event in order to raise awareness on the legalized human rights abuse
- [Eurovision: A song that unites](https://gayiceland.is/2016/eurovision-song-unites-people/) - 2016 marks the 30th anniversary of “Söngvakeppni sjónvarpsins”, Iceland’s pre-selection competition for Eurovision. Among this year's exciting contestants are first timers Vala Höskuldsdóttir and Sigríður Eir Zophoníasardótir - known together as the band Eva - who say that they're bringing a political message to the contest. I caught up with Vala and started by asking, how it came about that
- [Queer passion straight from the heart](https://gayiceland.is/2015/queer-straight-heart/) - In Iceland most people spend New Year's Eve with family or close friends. It’s generally considered important to be with your closest ones when the clock strikes 12, and only after that you go out for a party with a bigger crew. With Eva María Þórarinsdóttir Lange, her girlfriend Birna Hrönn Björnsdóttir and their partner
- [Most popular in 2015](https://gayiceland.is/2015/most-popular-in-2015/) - Important, insightful, inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking, shocking and even terrifying are all words that can be used to describe the stories, interviews and columns we brought our readers in the past twelve months. Sadly there were accounts of queer bullying, domestic violence, injustice, deep-rooted prejudice, "stigmatizing" labels and discrimination with in the Icelandic health care system. But there
- [Elska is out!](https://gayiceland.is/2016/elska-is-out/) - The latest issue of Elska Magazine is out and it features men and boys from Reykjavík city. Editor says that he's very satisfied with the outcome. “I’m really excited. I feel like Elska’s now reached the right balance of imagery and text to create that intimate and revealing feel that I’d always had in mind
- [A wide selection of queer books available](https://gayiceland.is/2015/porn-not-acceptable/) - A project manager at Reykjavík City Library says that the library's decision to reject certain books is based on good grounds. There just wasn't enough room for all the books and some of them were also dated. “We had to pick out what was best for us to keep. We are a public library, not
- ["Your girlfriend was never a boy..."](https://gayiceland.is/2015/painfully-perso/) - How do your genitals work after surgery? How do you have sex? Why didn't you just be gay? Trans-Iceland has just released a video, in cooperation with the anonymous curious public, where trans people answer questions which they usually hate being asked.
- [No glamour in comedy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/no-glamour-comedy/) - After hosting the Drag-Súgur drag show last weekend, Australian comedian Jonathan Duffy – Jono – is the talk of the town. He has only lived in Reykjavík for a few months, but has already made his presence felt. He does stand-ups every week and last Saturday a music video he made for pop idol Páll Óskar
- [Literature needs to reflect diversity](https://gayiceland.is/2015/literature-needs-to-reflect-diversity/) - Jónína Leósdóttir’s trilogy about the emotional life of a teenager where the protagonist comes out as a lesbian is one of the best Icelandic literature work that’s been written for young adults. I met with Jónína and talked to her about the importance of queer characters in our stories and culture, both for young people
- [Reykjavík City Library rejects bestellers](https://gayiceland.is/2015/reykjavik-library-bestseller/) - Reykjavík City Library has rejected books, deeming them too sexually explicit. One of the authors has stepped forward and criticised the decision. “I never thought I'd meet this kind of restriction in Iceland because we're known for being open minded, so it was a bit of a shock,” says writer Sigríður Jóhanna Valdimarsdóttir, who has written three
- [The right kind of queer](https://gayiceland.is/2015/right-kind-queer/) - In recent years there has been an international awakening regarding acceptance of various sexual minorities. Following the long hard struggle of homosexual people to be accepted, other groups have joined the fray, each expanding the meaning of the word queer and adding a letter to the ever more colorful acronym used when referring to the
- [Inappropriate talk](https://gayiceland.is/2015/inappropriate-talk/) - Trans-Iceland has made a video, in cooperation with the anonymous curious public, where trans people answer questions which they usually hate being asked. Alexander Björn Gunnarsson is one of the individuals appearing in the video, and as if he hadn’t had enough of questions already, he agreed to answer some more from us on GayIceland. “We’re basically imitating
- [ELSKA shot in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2015/elska-shot-iceland/) - The next issue of ELSKA will be dedicated to Iceland. Photographers from the gay erotic magazine are currently in the country taking pictures. Editor says its been a pleasure working with Icelandic men, who are both open-minded and ready to go great lengths to get the job done. “It's been packed everyday - the first day we had
- [Gay romance](https://gayiceland.is/2015/gay-romance/) - Tonight Erica Pike will be discussing male romance in literature at The National Queer Organisation, Samtökin '78. Pike is very familiar with the subject because she has written three romance novels and numerous short stories about gay men since 2012. Books that have been published in the United States by one of the three leading publishing houses
- [Ready for some fun!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/ready-for-some-fun/) - This Friday a variety of performers, including musicians, stand up comedians, circus performers, DJ's and drag artists are putting on a show at legendary club Gaukurinn in downtown Reykjavík. Organisers say they want to spice up the queer-club-party scene with a spectacular night. “Basically, this is a queer-partynight/show with a hint of drag, cabaret, music 'n stuff,”
- [Ashfall: Cinderella's Prince Charming needs to be gay](https://gayiceland.is/2015/prince-charming-really-needs-gay/) - A princess who's brave and resourceful instead of being a passive, pursued object. And a prince who has zero interest in girls. Tonight the Student Theater will stage a brand-new version of Cinderella or rather a consciously anti-Cinderella: Ashfall (i. Öskufall) which addresses queer issues and equal rights. We met with author/director Tryggvi Gunnarson and started by asking why
- [Perfume Genius: Nice and easy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/perfume-genius-concert-nice-easy-delicate/) - Perfume Genius showed his delicate side in Harpa's Silfurberg on Friday night during his Iceland Airwaves concert. With a full venue, it was obvious that the audience's expectations were high. That came as no surprise. Perfume Genius is a talented performer with three albums on his CV, the latest one, "Too Bright", receiving almost universal
- [Þjóðskrá has long known and done nothing](https://gayiceland.is/2015/thjodskra-long-known-done-nothing/) - Mother of two says that Registers Iceland and The Childbirth Leave Fund have known for years about the discrimination lesbian mothers must endure, when asked to provide the institutions with consent for assisted reproductive technique used in conception. She claims that its only now since the matter has been put on the spot in the media that the institutions have been forced to
- [A possible solution for lesbian mothers?](https://gayiceland.is/2015/solution-lesbian-mothers/) - Registers Iceland has sent the Ministry of Internal Affairs a memo, proposing a change of the Act in Respect of Children, that might end the discrimination against lesbian mothers. The institution states an amendment is needed in the Act, by including a mater-est clause, comparable to the pater-est rule. That would mean that if a
- [Iceland Airwaves:11 fast questions for Elín Ey](https://gayiceland.is/2015/iceland-airwaves-11-fire-questions-elin-ey/) - The Icelandic band Sísý Ey will be performing at the Iceland Airwaves festival. The band has been getting a great deal of attention for its enthusiastic live performances and its first single, Ain't Got Nobody, has also been well received, both in Iceland and abroad. Sísý Ey was founded in 2011 by three sisters, Elín Ey,
- [One rule for all couples](https://gayiceland.is/2015/one-rule-couples/) - Lawyer glad to hear about Registers Iceland will to include ‘Mater est’ clause in the Act in Respect of Children. “Well that sounds like a reasonable solution,” says lawyer Katrín Oddsdóttir, when asked what she thinks about the Mater est clause (comparable to the pater-est rule) that Registers Iceland is now proposing to be included in the Act in
- [New possibilities for trans-people in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2015/new-possibilities-trans-people-iceland/) - Iceland has gained its first plastic surgeon specialized in gender reassignment surgery. Hannes Sigurjónson has taken over from Gunnar Kratz, a Swedish professor in plastic surgery, who has been performing these operations here since 2010. The new doctor says he's very excited about the task and that he wants to offer trans-people in Iceland a broader spectrum of operative
- [Denique LeBlanc: Scandinavian at heart](https://gayiceland.is/2015/denique-leblanc-scandinavian-heart/) - Born and raised on the east coast of Canada, the multi-talented Denique LeBlanc started step dancing when he was seven years old and moved on to the fiddle at the age of ten. At 16, he became obsessed with a few female singers who, in his words: ”changed my views on what singing really was.“
- [Each item is unique](https://gayiceland.is/2015/each-item-is-unique/) - Crafts and design (i. Handverk og hönnun) will hold its 14th fair at Reykjavík City Hall from November 5th to November 9th. Among the 58 participants is Kristín Jóna Þorsteinsdóttir, or Stína bongo as some might know her, who will be displaying work made from hardwood and ram horns. ”I love everything about the Icelandic sheep;
- [It gets better](https://gayiceland.is/2015/it-gets-better/) - He was born into a family of farmers, raised on the famous dairy farm Erpsstaðir, in region Dalir in West Iceland, along with his four siblings, including a twin brother. His idea of the simple life was quite simple: Find a girl, get married and become an animator. (The cows didn’t really interest him.) But
- [Queer art for everyone](https://gayiceland.is/2015/queer-art-everyone/) - Gallerí '78 opened recently at the new location of Samtökin '78 at Suðurgata 3, Reykjavík. The ongoing opening exhibition is called "HINSÝN! (a play with words, that might be translated as Queer-sight) which underlines the diversity of the 15 artists who have work on display; videos, photographs, paintings, embroidery and sculptures. Today, On October 29th, at
- [Kids shows need to address queer issues](https://gayiceland.is/2015/kids-shows-need-address-queer-issues/) - Icelandic children's TV show Stundin okkar (e. "Our hour") made history last Sunday, when guest star and openly gay singer Páll Óskar addressed gay issues in a simple manner by saying: "you can't decide how your heart beats. It just beats." The writers felt it was about time somebody touched on the matter and are immensly proud with the
- [Cruising Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2013/pink-iceland/) - “Crazy. Friendly. Fun!” Planning your first travel to Iceland or already a seasoned traveler but still want to get a gay perspective? Pink Iceland, Iceland's first and foremost gay owned and operated travel expert, has all the answers. Pink Iceland works for and with the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning) community and specializes in
- [We want to beat Gilzenegger!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/want-beat-gilzenegger/) - Kitchen Sink Revolution is a new documentary film from director Halla Kristín Einarsdóttir, telling the story of the Women’s List, an Icelandic political party entirely made up of women. The film competed for „Best Nordic Documentary 2015“ at Nordisk Panorama and was also the „Pick of the Audience“ at Skjaldborg, the annual Icelandic Documentary Film Festival
- [Police not biased against male victims](https://gayiceland.is/2015/police-not-biased-male-victims/) - Last weekend a gay man, Antoine Hrannar Fons, opened up in the media and described in a harrowing account how he suffered domestic violence at the hands of his former partner for years, without getting proper assistance from local police. Since then a counsellor on violence has stated that men, especially gay men, feel that the police is not
- [A walk on the queer side](https://gayiceland.is/2015/walk-queer-side/) - Queer literature in Iceland may not have been prominent in the past, but it has always been there, according to Úlfhildur Dagsdóttir, project manager at Reykjavik City Library. Nine years ago she led the first walking tour through Reykjavik focusing on queer literature. She says the tours appeals just as much to the average literary
- [Viking weddings popular](https://gayiceland.is/2015/viking-weddings-trending/) - Ever since Iceland legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 the country has been a popular destination for gay weddings and now it seems more and more travellers are opting to get married here in the Old Norse way. Humanist weddings have become equally popular. “There has been a massive increase in demand for same-sex wedding ceremonies in the last year, an
- [Samtökin '78 celebrate brand new facilities](https://gayiceland.is/2015/samtokin-78-celebrates-new-facilities/) - Last Saturday the new and elegant facilities of the National Queer Organization, Samtökin '78, opened at Suðurgata 3, Reykjavík. A steady flow of people passed by and checked out the premises. The colorful cake, cut in pieces, was certainly as delicious as it looked. During the day all sorts of families warmed the house –
- [Memorable moments](https://gayiceland.is/2015/memorable-moments/) - They had their picture take on their wedding day 16th of June 2007 in park Hellisgerði in the town of Hafnarfjörður, Greater Reykjavík Area. And ever since they've been pictured on their wedding anniversary in exactly the same spot. Inga Hrönn Stefánsdottir and Raggý Scheving have been married since 2007. They intended to have their wedding
- [Police needs education](https://gayiceland.is/2015/samtokin-78-police-need-education/) - Director of Samtökin '78 happy to hear about the non-discrimination policy the police has towards victims of domestic violence. Says that in spite of good intentions the police still needs special education on how to deal with violence among queer couples and queer matters in general. ”That statement is great, obviously. I know that the new
- [We should not be teaching prejudice in our schools](https://gayiceland.is/2015/not-teaching-prejudice/) - ‘Intersex’ is being translated into Icelandic as ‘freak’ in a biological terminology, used in local schools. Disturbing says head of Intersex Iceland, who wants the glossary reviewed and republished, as this kind of foul language should never be used to describe minorities and is likely to foster prejudice. “I think it’s disturbing that this is being used as a teaching
- [Publisher apologises for poor translation](https://gayiceland.is/2015/publisher-apologises-poor-translation/) - Publisher says that he's sorry that the word ‘intersex’ is being translated into Icelandic as ‘freak’ in a biological terminology, used in local schools. The translation has been criticized by Intersex Iceland. “I completely agree, this translations is unacceptable and I wish to apologise for the hurt feelings it may have caused,” says Kári Örlygsson, publisher and distributor of
- [A bad example of surrogacy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/bad-example-surrogacy/) - A mother criticizes TV programme Kastljós for airing an interview with a woman who has lost touch with her daughter after giving her up for adoption, as an example of a surrogacy gone wrong. She herself gave a baby up for adoption twenty years ago and says that surrogacy and adoption are two very different things. One of the hottest
- [Local choir hypnotized](https://gayiceland.is/2015/local-choir-hypnotized-brought-paris/) - The Reykjavík Queer Choir will be collaborating with renowned French film maker, Gurwan Tran Van Gie, on his next film, to be shot in Iceland this winter and presented at The Museum Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris in 2016. But before that the two will team up for a very unconventional act involving group-hypnosis at this year's Reykjavík International
- [A victory for BDSM people](https://gayiceland.is/2015/great-victory-bdsm-association/) - BDSM should be removed from the list of mental disorders, agrees The Director of Health for Iceland. A great victory for us, says The Chairman of The Icelandic BDSM association. The Director of Health for Iceland, Birgir Jakobsson, says there's nothing that prevents Iceland from following the footsteps of other Nordic countries and removing BDSM from its
- [BDSM labelled a disorder](https://gayiceland.is/2015/bdsm-still-labelled-mental-disorder/) - Iceland is the only Nordic country that still lists BDSM as a mental illness. A clear example of thoughtlessness, says the chairman of the Icelandic BDSM association. Members want the government to acknowledge BDSM as normal sexual behaviour. Not categorize it as a sickness. “Its not easy to realize your sexual desires are categorized by your
- [Time to spice things up!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/time-spice-things/) - Tonight sees the beginning of Girls' Nights at Kiki queer club. From now on Wednesdays nights will be girls only. About time to cater to the need of lesbian get-togethers say organizers. “I can’t count how many girls have asked me: ‘Where are all the lesbians?’ And I simply have to answer the truth: ‘Nobody
- [We need more than sex](https://gayiceland.is/2015/we-need-more-than-sex/) - Once a week the rainbow flag is put on one of the tables at the coffeehouse IÐA Zimsen where a diverse group of gay men meet and talk. Hafsteinn Sverrisson is the organizer of these meetings. “I thought it might be a good idea to offer an opportunity for gay men to meet in a casual alcohol
- [Local boys open up](https://gayiceland.is/2015/local-boys-open/) - Elska a new erotic magazine set to hit stores in September. Models lining up to take part. „I pitch it as a publication about getting to know beautiful men, to feel like you can understand them, like you're there next to them. The tagline is "local boys + local stories". I'm trying to showcase a
- [No questions asked](https://gayiceland.is/2015/no-questions-asked/) - Bears On Ice, the only Icelandic men only festival, will be held in Reykjavík for the 11th time from the 3rd to the 6th of September. Organizer Frosti Jónsson promises an event that will be remembered for a long, long time. “It's a fantastic weekend where bears and friends get together for a long weekend.
- [Gay for a day](https://gayiceland.is/2014/gay-for-a-day/) - The Bears are coming! No not polar bears or grizzly bears, but the more cuddlier kind. The annual Bears on Ice festival will run from September 4-7 this week and is set to have the biggest turn out in its ten-year history, with over 150 bears and friends flying to Iceland from all over the world.
- [Gimmi Gimmi is out!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/gimmi-gimmi-is-out/) - Berndsen has just released a music video for the song "Gimmi Gimmi" from his latest album, the 80's spirited "Planet Earth". The new video features Berndsen performing at the yearly Icelandic gay men only festival Bears on Ice which we interviewed him about last month. When we spoke the musician stated that he was really excited
- [A record breaking frenzy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/record-breaking-frenzy/) - The queer sports club Styrmir broke at least 14 national records in competitive adult swimming at the EuroGames in Sweden. A great success for a team of seven where the majority were beginners only three years ago. “Our team broke a record in the first race which gave the whole team a second wind and
- [Lucky to be alive](https://gayiceland.is/2015/lucky-to-be-alive/) - Out in the quiet countryside, embraced by mountains, lives one of Iceland’s most beloved musicians. Lay Low lives in a small house she’s giving a new paint job this summer. She enjoys the solitude and feeds of the creative energy of her surroundings as she works on three new albums. Since a little girl she wanted
- [Prejudice?](https://gayiceland.is/2015/prejudice/) - Icelanders pride themselves in being accepting and non-judgemental and one of the leading countries when it comes to queer rights. Some even say that the acceptance in the society is so much that there is no more need for Reykjavík Pride. That the fight is over. But what does the queer community itself say. Is there still
- [Páll Óskar debuts music video](https://gayiceland.is/2015/pall-oskar-debuts-new-music-video/) - Páll Óskar releases music video for new dance pop single, Look into the light (i. Líttu upp í ljós). Páll Óskar has just released a musich video for his single Look into the light. A dance party-friendly pop song with uber energetic lyrics about staying positive and happy and, well, listening to your mother's advice. "To be clear it's meant metaphorically, as
- [We have to keep on fighting](https://gayiceland.is/2015/we-have-to-keep-on-fighting/) - Ambassadors of foreign countries are not necessarily the people you would expect to see in a Pride Parade, but the Canadian Ambassador to Iceland, Stewart Wheeler has marched in the Reykjavík Pride for the last two years with his partner Brian Armstrong, and they will be marching again this year. On top of that Stewart will
- [Iceland sends Swiss soldier to EuroGames](https://gayiceland.is/2015/iceland-sends-swiss-soldier-eurogames/) - Ten Icelandic athletes are set to compete at the EuroGames in Stockholm in August. On the team is Swiss ex-soldier Stephan Jón Hufschmid who's determined to set a personal goal. “Yes, I've set my mind on it, that's something I always do,” says Stephan, who will be competing in swimming, that is in the 100 meter breaststroke
- [Prepare to party!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/prepare-to-party/) - Kiki queer bar has a lot of exciting things on offer during the Reykjavík Pride festival. Tonight, straight after the Opening Ceremony (at Harpa) DJ DE LA ROSA and DÓRA DÚNA make their debut at Kiki alongside DJ Fjalar! DJ Rosa promises it will be absolute madness! "Oh, I can tell you this night is going to be crazy," says Rósa Birgitta Ísfeld, otherwise
- [Lines will be crossed!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/lines-will-crossed/) - The annual Icelandic Drag Competition will be held in Gamla bíó on Wednesday, August 5th at 8pm. Georg Erlingsson Merritt has been the competition’s coordinator ever since he won the title Iceland’s Drag Queen in 1998. We talked to Georg about the contest, censorship and possible reasons why the Icelandic drag scene isn't nearly as vibrant as it used
- [Erotic movie shot in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2015/erotic-movie-filmed-iceland/) - Awarded porn director plans to shoot film in Iceland. On the lookout for local talent. "I'm not searching for professional actors. It could be someone with experience or without it. Just someone who is comfortable with being filmed," says Spanish director Lola Clavo who is currently looking to hire actors for a new erotic movie to be shot in Iceland. "My only
- [For the settlement queens!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/for-the-settlement-queens/) - Pop singer Páll Óskar will be "sailing" a twelve meter long pink Viking ship at this year's Pride parade. The idea he says is to bring attention and pay respect to all the queens who have been silenced throughout the centuries in Iceland, ever since settlement. "We are building a real size pink Viking ship destined to sail the crowd
- [Drag queen to compete in Reykjavík Marathon](https://gayiceland.is/2015/drag-queen-compete-reykjavik-marathon/) - It‘s not every day that drag queens in full costume compete in marathons, but that's exactly what Hjálmar Forni Sveinbjörnsson Poulsen plans do in the Reykjavík Marathon in August. „I saw a guy run the Reykjavik Marathon in a business suit last year and that's how I got the idea to run in drag,“ Hjálmar says and explains that he‘s running
- [An honor to be nominated](https://gayiceland.is/2015/an-honor-to-be-nominated/) - Six Icelandic films have been nominated in three categories at this years Nordisk Panorama short and doc film festival, which takes place in Malmö, Sweden, between September 18th to Septermber 23rd this year. Five of which are directed by women. Including the documentary “I want to be Weird” by newcomer Brynja Dögg Friðriksdóttir, who says she's exhilarated that her first feature
- [BDSM Iceland: Not part of the Pride parade](https://gayiceland.is/2015/bdsm-iceland-not-part-pride-parade/) - The national BDSM association won't be taking part in the Reykjavík Pride Parade this year. Still a lot of prejudice towards BDSM in the queer community says chairman of BDSM Iceland. „BDSM is still controversial. And the people running the parade are afraid of upsetting people who come to watch. In the old days we were always
- [Reykjavík Pride 2015: "Nice to do some good!"](https://gayiceland.is/2015/reykjavik-pride-some-good/) - Almost a third of the nation shows up to watch the Pride Parade every year. Despite the obvious support, there is still prejudice against queer people in Iceland, and there is still need to campaign for queer rights, says Eva María Þórarinsdóttir Lange, the chairman of Reykjavík Pride. This year‘s theme is queer health. Reykjavík
- [Hiking with Halla: Eldborg](https://gayiceland.is/2014/hiking-with-halla-eldborg/) - eel like doing a hike in beautiful surroundings yet so easy its almost suitable for toddlers. Then why not head off to Snaefellsnes peninsula? You can drive to Snorrastadir, where a farm stay and horse rental are on offer, and hike from there to a 5.000 year old volcano crater called "Eldborg" or "The Fortress of Fire". The
- [Singer Eivør Pálsdóttir: Ignore Jenis av Rana](https://gayiceland.is/2015/eivor-palsdottir-ignore-jenis-av-rana/) - Earlier this week Jenis av Rana, a member of Parliament and leader of the fundamentalist Christian political party, Midflokkurinn, in the Faroe Islands, demanded that the Pride festivals, which are to be held two days before Ólafsvaka (the islands' national holiday at the end of July) be banned. Now Faroese singer and songwriter Eivør Pálsdóttir has stepped forward, calling Jenis
- [Hard to please everybody](https://gayiceland.is/2015/hard-please-everybody/) - Last week celebrity Felix Bergsson declared the Icelandic gay scene as good as dead. And since, Facebook has been buzzing with comments from those who either agree or oppose. Many of whom want to see some kind of changes brought about. But how exactly do you please a target group which is both small and extremely diverse? And
- [„I take full responsibility“](https://gayiceland.is/2015/take-full-responsibility/) - The discussion about the lack of a place for the LGBTQI community to meet and strengthen their community continues and one of the things that has been brought up is the fact that the space Samtökin '78, The National Queer Organization, bought a year ago has not been opened yet. We asked the chairman of S78,
- [There is no true gay scene in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2015/no-true-gay-scene-iceland/) - Why is there no men only gay club in Iceland? Where do gay men go to meet each other? Lately there has been a nostalgic discussion on Facebook about the legendary MSC men only club that, which for some, used to be the highlight of gay clubbing in Reykjavík before it was closed. We asked one of
- [#Love wins](https://gayiceland.is/2015/love-wins/) - The Supreme Court of the United States just declared that same sex marriage is a constitutional right. In a statement from president Barack Obama he called the decision a “victory for America.” This means that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry nationwide without regard to their state’s laws. Before the 5-4 ruling, 13
- [The beauty of boylesque](https://gayiceland.is/2015/the-beauty-of-boylesque/) - This summer the Icelandic Circus (i. Sirkus Íslands) is cooking up a feast of versatile entertainment with international guest artists who will leave the audience in awe with unusual bodybending, hilarious glutes tricks and the beauty of burlesque. In a show called “Skinnsemi”, tailored for an adult audience only, traditional gender roles will be playfully challenged.
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | Official Song Video](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-2012-official-song-video/) - The official video for the Reykjavik Pride song 2012, "Rönd í regnboga" which ranslates as “Stripe in a rainbow,” is out! The song is a cover song of Don't rain on my parade sung and made famous by Barbra Streisand. The Icelandic version is performed by Viggó and Víóletta. Previous post wich includes the lyrics in Icelandic.
- [Hera Björk to sing Gay Pride Song](https://gayiceland.is/2011/hera-bjork/) - Icelandic pop-diva Hera Björk will be singing this year’s Reykjavík Gay Pride song. The song, Feel the Love Tonight, is quite a catchy dance number written by musician Örlygur Smári, the man behind Eurovision smash hits like This is My Life and Je Ne Sais Quoi. The latter song gave Europe it’s first real glimpse
- [Transpeople always excisted](https://gayiceland.is/2012/transpeople-always-excisted/) - Rannveig Traustadóttir, a professor in sociology at the University of Iceland, says that transgender-people have always existed in a recent interview with mbl.is. She points out that a certain percent of all children are born with undetermined sex every year, that is they have either both genitals or their sex is uncertain and therefore need
- [Violence still a problem](https://gayiceland.is/2012/violence-still-a-problem-self-defence/) - Styrmir sports club and Samtökin 78 have organized a self-defense class for beginners which will take place at Ármann, Laugaból sports center, Engjavegur 7 (near Laugardalsvöllur) tomorrow night and on Saturday. The GayIceland team sat down with organiser Íris Ellenberger and found out why taking such a course might be a good idea. “Throughout the years there have
- [Pride 2011 | Never the Bride](https://gayiceland.is/2011/never-the-bride/) - For the first time in Iceland and not to be missed, Never the Bride will perform on Pride's opening ceremony in Hákskólabíó cinema Aug. 4th and at the Outdoor Concert at Arnarhóll Aug 6th. Never the Bride, vocalist Nikki Lamborn and keyboard playing composer Catherine Feeney (aka. The Been), first met on the London jam
- [Queerphobes welcome](https://gayiceland.is/2015/queerphobes-welcome/) - The National Queer Organization is hosting a public meeting on queer matters this Sunday. The event is a response to the hate speech which has been aimed at queer people for the past weeks. Remember all the fuss the media made after Hafnarfjörður town decided to add queer issues to the curriculum to educate the
- [Biggest selfie ever](https://gayiceland.is/2015/biggest-selfie-ever/) - "I want to be weird" (i. Ég vil vera skrítin) is one of the documentaries premiering at the Icelandic documentary festival Skjaldborg this weekend. The documentary follows British artist Kitty Von-Sometime who has lived in Iceland for nine years and is known for "The Weird Girls Project", an ongoing beautiful, strange, unearthly and fairy tale like
- [Muslims and queers united](https://gayiceland.is/2015/muslims-queers-united/) - The president of Samtökin ‘78, The National Queer Organization in Iceland welcomes the chair of the Association of Muslims in Iceland attitude towards gay marriages. He says the two group face similar adversity in their fights and hopes to establish good contact with the Muslim congregations. "I am delighted that this is his opinion," says Hilmar
- [Religion over children](https://gayiceland.is/2015/religion-over-children/) - Where to start? Leelah‘s Alcorn story is a sad one, with a sad ending. And it‘s spread around the world as a lesson to those who oppress fragile teenagers who are coming to terms with their own identity. Teenagers who need to be told things will be alright, not that they‘re wrong. It‘s a sad
- [Pink Party: Photos](https://gayiceland.is/2015/pink-party-photos/) - It was glitz and glamour all the way when the The Pink Masquerade Party took place at Iðnó last Saturday, January 31st, as part of the LGBT festival Rainbow Reykjavík. Photographer Kent Lárus Björnsson was there and managed to capture the magnetic atmosphere perfectly.
- [Drag show dazzles](https://gayiceland.is/2015/drag-show-dazzles/) - Since January this year RuPaul’s Battle of the Seasons: The Condragulations tour has visited all the major cities in the USA and Europe. Last weekend the traveling ensemble show brought some of the best queens from past seasons to Reykjavík. Needless to say the audience had a blast. And so did the queens.
- [Queer studies part of teacher education](https://gayiceland.is/2015/queer-studies-teachers/) - If all goes according to plan, the students at the Faculty of Teacher Education at The University of Iceland will soon be able to take a course in queer studies as part of their education. Ingólfur Ásgeir Jóhannesson, professor at the Faculty, and Jón Ingvar Kjaran postdoctoral fellow, have put forward a proposition for the course
- [Beauty in all forms](https://gayiceland.is/2015/beauty-forms/) - Concept artist Kitty Von-Sometime releases a new episode of The Weird Girls Project with music by CREEP featuring Sia. “The purpose of this piece is to promote a message to women to embrace yourself, women celebrating themselves as themselves and to truly love who they are,” says British-born, Iceland-residing concept artist Kitty Von-Sometime who today
- [The body is my canvas](https://gayiceland.is/2015/body-canvas/) - Andres Pelaez recently graduated from the Iceland Academy of the Arts with a BA degree in fashion. He moved from Guatemala to Iceland in 2012 and says that the past three years have been quite a journey. Being from Guatemala, where earthquakes are very common, Andrés Peláez wasn‘t alarmed when the earth shook under his
- [The right to be yourself](https://gayiceland.is/2015/right/) - The Nordic opera MagnusMaria that will be on the stage of The National Theatre, June 3rd, as a part of the Reykjavik Art Festival, tackles gender issues and gay, transgender and women’s rights with the true story of the 17th century girl Maria Johansdotter from Åland who was better known as Magnus Johansson throughout her
- [Eurovision ecstasy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/eurovision-ecstasy/) - Ready to be the star of your Eurovision party? These duo dip cheesecake cookie bars are delicious and can be cut into as small or large of pieces as you want. A bottom layer of cookies, a middle layer of cheesecake, and crumbles of chocolate chip cookies on the top, ensure an amazing desert that
- [Italy wins!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/italy-wins/) - Eurovision expert predicts that operatic pop trio Il Volo will win the song contest this year. Forget Google ask Reynir Þór Eggertsson a.k.a. "Eurovision Reynir", at least when it comes to everything related to the Eurovision song contest for he seems to know all there is to know about it, hence the nickname. Every year
- [An amazing moment](https://gayiceland.is/2015/amazing-moment/) - Troy Michael takes Iceland to the top 5 in Mr. Gay World 2015 - setting a new record for the country. "One of the most amazing and nervous moments of my life. Locking hands with the top gay ambassadors in the World waiting for the official results. I can't even describe what I was feeling," says Troy
- [Bullying a big problem](https://gayiceland.is/2015/bullying-big-problem/) - Research show that gay students are more than 30 percent likely to be bullied than their peers. And the consequences can be severe, ranging from higher risks of dropping out of school to suicidal behaviour. Therefore the question arises, are school authorities doing enough to prevent homo- and transphobic bullying? “It is a known fact that gay
- [There is always talk](https://gayiceland.is/2015/always-talk/) - Elísa Björg Örlygsdóttir Husby is the new chair of Trans-Iceland. She had to fight the system for eleven years before she was allowed to get sex reassignment. Shortly after she had started the process she met the love of her life who was also in the process of reassigning her sex. The ride has been a
- [Freedom of speech](https://gayiceland.is/2015/freedom-speech/) - It is springtime in Iceland. Despite the cold weather this little island is slowly coming alive. The Lóa is here, the tomato plants in my window are growing nicely and Gylfi Ægisson has come out of hibernation with his annual rant about how this country's queer organizations are damaging the nation's youth. This time he
- [Mr. Gay Iceland: Fighting the pain](https://gayiceland.is/2015/mr-gay-iceland-fighting-the-pain/) - The annual competition Mr Gay World will be held in South Africa from the 26th of April to the 4th of May. The Icelandic delegate, Troy Michael Jónsson is all set to fly to Cape Town. He was also the Icelandic delegate in Rome last year when he finished in the top ten and is confident he has
- [We need education](https://gayiceland.is/2015/need-education/) - Education eradicates prejudice. Therefore increased education on LGBTI matters is needed in the curriculum of schools. Says a young girl who has taken upon herself to found a queer student organisation in a small fishing town in the south-eastern part of Iceland. Earlier this month eighteen year old grammar school student Guðrún Ósk Gunnarsdóttir took a brave decision.
- [Come on kids, let's all join hands and be gay!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/come-kids-lets-gay/) - They say that the Great Wall of China is the only man-made object visible from the Moon. I'll tell you below how this is related to the ongoing movement to protest against education on queer issues in Icelandic schools. It started out as a simple and beautiful step of progress, made by the Samtökin ‚78,
- [The Queens take over!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/queens-take/) - RuPaul's Drag Race Battle of the Seasons takes over the Pink Iceland Instagram at 4pm (GMT). Contestants of American reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race will be performing live in Reykjavík city later this month. If you're one of those who's already bought a ticket and can't wait to see the show, then here's your chance
- [Not just a drag show](https://gayiceland.is/2015/not-just-a-drag-show/) - Iceland is in for a treat tonight when the biggest stars from TV reality show RuPaul's Drag Race will blow the roof of "Gamla bíó". Host Michelle Visage is looking forward to losing her virginity in Reykjavík. "It's a show like you’ve never witnessed before. It's more than a drag show, it's an experience," says Michelle Visage, the
- [Rabbit chili recipe](https://gayiceland.is/2015/rabbit-chili-recipe/) - Rabbit meat. Not so easily available in grocery stores in Iceland, but easy to raise. Sæþór Benjamín shares one of his favorite recipes: rabbit chili, served over crushed tortilla chips with shredded cheese, sour cream and guacamole on top. Rabbits are prized for their fast maturity (up to a kilogram of meat in just six weeks), low skeleton weight
- [We like to laugh!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/like-laugh/) - Dining in with locals may still be somewhat of a nouveau option in Iceland but it's done regularly and it's a blast. Although not a very common practice there are a few individuals who open up their homes for strangers and offer an unforgettable dining experience. One of which are the hospitable Beggi and Pacas. It might have started out as
- [Love yourself](https://gayiceland.is/2015/love-yourself/) - In a sincere and heartwarming video on YouTube, Icelandic teen Vífill Harðarson encourages everyone to love and accept themselves whether they’ll come out of the closet or not, for that is the only way to go through life. Vífill decided to make the video after speaking to LGBT teens from all around the world and
- [The trans-Icelandic way](https://gayiceland.is/2015/transgender-rights-iceland/) - Lithuanians look to Iceland for how to – and how not to – deal with transgender rights issues. Recently two representatives from LGL, the LGBT national rights organization of Lithuania, paid a visit to Q, the queer student organisation of Iceland. The aim was to see what knowledge the Icelanders had to offer regarding rights
- [Are we gender obsessed?](https://gayiceland.is/2013/are-we-obsessed-with-gender/) - “I feel that when I speak, more people tend to ignore me. Even when I'm making a critical point about something I know a lot about. It's as if my voice simply doesn‘t count as much.” Ever since I came out as trans, a few years ago, I've been asked over and over again: "Do
- [Vaccine for boys](https://gayiceland.is/2015/vaccine-for-boys/) - All around the world scientists have been focusing more on the role of the HPV virus in cancers among men, both anal cancer and throat cancer, as it's an increasing health hazard to men. Especially those who are gay and bisexual. Icelandic doctor says that in a perfect world boys would get HPV vaccine as well
- [Eurovision - Iceland on to the Finals](https://gayiceland.is/2011/eurovision-iceland-on-to-the-finals/) - It was an exciting moment to say the least when it was finally announced yesterday that Iceland got on to the finals in the Eurovision Song Contest, which takes place in Dusseldorf this Saturday. Ten countries out of nineteen from the first semi-final got on and Iceland landed the last spot, with the song "Coming Home" performed
- [Girls on wheels!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/girls-on-wheels/) - Today, March 28th, two roller derby teams will compete in Herzhöllin, Seltjarnarnes: The Icelandic Ragnarök and the Norweigian Oslo Tiger City Beasts. It’s going to be fast. It’s going to be brutal. There will be girls on wheels! Roller derby is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of team sports.
- [Jogging Pants are Hot](https://gayiceland.is/2013/jogging-pants-are-hot/) - “Never mix disco pants with anything. Just don’t wear them.” Actor and soon to be personal trainer Antoine Hrannar Fons loves sports and nature. He also knows a thing or two about the Icelandic fashion scene and where to shop. Iceland's most trendy shop? Geysir. Favorite designer? Franco Moschinoplain. Best buy? T-shirts in Hagkaup. Same stuff
- [A course in etiquette](https://gayiceland.is/2014/a-course-in-etiquette/) - Fancy going out for dinner in good company? If not, you could rather look at the less common, and somewhat nouveau option of dining in with locals in Iceland. Yes, it's done regularly and it's a blast. Although not a common practice there are a few individuals who open up their homes for strangers and offer a dining
- [Single and hating it!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/single-and-hating-it/) - Kiki queer bar's first "Single and HATING IT" night tonight. In cooperation with Q - The Queer Student Association. Does the sight of red roses make your eyes hurt? Do heart-shaped chocolate boxes awaken the demon in you? Then, take our advice and head to Kiki queer bar tonight, Saturday 13 February, to celebrate the "Single
- [Pink parties and Northern Lights](https://gayiceland.is/2012/pink-parties-and-northern-lights/) - Hi, you all, just back from a little breather - well a relaxing break on gorgeous exotic locations to tell the truth if you must really know. Did you miss us? Well, we sure missed you!!! Now, november has arrived so it’s getting a little bit chilly in Iceland at the moment but there’s certainly no need
- [Dolly is simply the best](https://gayiceland.is/2013/dolly-is-simply-the-best/) - “A lot of songs make me happy but one that never fails is You dropped a Bomb on Me with The Gap Band.” When the clock chimes midnight in Iceland the party really begins. Natalie G. Gunnarsdóttir, known as Dj Yamaho, knows where to go for the best music, to have drinks, some fun and
- [It’s all about the happiness](https://gayiceland.is/2015/happiness/) - If you’ve ever been out at night at a bar in Reykjavík, chances are that you’ve been amazed by a pair of old ladies grooving on the dance floor or even bumped into a herd of wild animals dancing away to disco tunes. Sometimes Dick and Dyke are close to unrecognisable, but you can identify
- [A rare spectacle](https://gayiceland.is/2015/a-rare-spectacle/) - Solar eclipse visible from Reykjavik Friday morning, March 20th. A rare spectacle not to miss. "The solar eclipse will be impressive, beautiful and captivating at the same time" says Sævar Helgi Bragason, chairman of Stjörnuskoðunarfélag Seltjarnarness (e. Seltjarnarness's Society of Astronomy and Stargazing). The solar eclipse of March 20th will be a partial eclipse where the moon
- [Pirate Bay is a blessing](https://gayiceland.is/2015/pirate-bay-is-a-blessing/) - It's been eight years now since Páll Óskar Hjálmtýsson released his hit album "Allt fyrir ástina" (e. "Everything for Love", 2007). Since then fans have eagerly been waiting for a new album to come out and now the wait is almost over. Iceland's biggest pop star has fifteen new songs in the works. Soon to
- [Ham-cloud and eggnog](https://gayiceland.is/2014/ham-cloud-and-eggnog/) - "Christmas is all about family and traditions for me." I just loved Christmas as a kid. I still do, but as a child it was the most exciting time of year. There was so much to look forward to: school break; a car trip to grandma’s (over the hills and through the woods as it
- [Eurovision: Is No Football Match](https://gayiceland.is/2013/eurovision-is-no-football-match/) - “We thought it [the song] sounded more sincere and honest in Icelandic” Eurovision is just around the corner. The first semi final take place next Tuesday and the grand final on the following Saturday, the 18th of May. This year Iceland is competing with “Ég á líf” (e. I’ve got Life) performed by Eyþór Ingi
- [Iceland's tribute to Conchita](https://gayiceland.is/2014/icelands-tribute-to-conchita-wurst/) - Conchita Wurst's Eurovision victory has not only exposed a divide between Europe's progressives and conservatives but also driven people all over the world (including chef Nigella Lawson and comedian Russell Brand - well in his own way) to celebrate by posting bearded selfies on the Internet. Here's Iceland's tribute to the diva!
- [What kind of sick joke is this?](https://gayiceland.is/2014/what-kind-of-sick-joke-is-this/) - I'm a bit of a fan of the Eurovision Song Contest. Not because I know anything about music (I'd stand a better chance explaining quantum physics to a three-year old, than to take part in an intellectual conversation about music) but because it's a celebration of the things all Europeans (or indeed all of mankind)
- [Conchita Wurst's 'Heroes'](https://gayiceland.is/2014/conchita-wursts-heroes/) - Conchita Wurst released earlier this month the music video 'Heroes' which deals with love and self empowerment. It sounds modern with classical elements and is receiving positive reviews. Conchita, who won the Eurovision song contest last year with her dramatic ballad 'Rise like a Phoenix,' is with 'Heroes' showing that she is not a one-hit
- [Eurovision 2012 | Iceland's final tonight](https://gayiceland.is/2012/eurovision-2012-icelands-final-tonight/) - Tonight it will be clear who'll be performing on behalf of Iceland at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, as the Icelands finals will take place in only an hour. Tickets sold out in only five minutes after they went up for sale on the internet. So it's clear that Harpa, the Reykjavik Concert and Conference Hall, is indeed
- [We try to be civil](https://gayiceland.is/2015/try-civil/) - Unbroken will represent Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2015 after recently winning the Söngvakeppni (the Icelandic preselection song competition for ESC). The song is written by StopWaitGo, a group of three musicians and music producers. Brothers, Pálmi Ásgeirsson and Ásgeir Ásgeirsson, and their childhood friend Sæþór Kristjánsson. Pálmi was kind of enough to tell us little bit
- [Pride's new theme song?](https://gayiceland.is/2015/gay-prides-new-theme-song/) - With a powerful performance of the song Unbroken, in the national pre-selection for Eurovision Song Contest 2015, María Ólafsdóttir stole our hearts and tickled our minds with empowering lyrics. Lyrics which are now starting to raise eyebrows. Some songs' meanings need no explanation. They're very literal and direct. Whilst others are more vague leaving them open to interpretation.
- [Daníel Óliver makes a splash in Sweden](https://gayiceland.is/2012/daniel-oliver-makes-a-splash-in-sweden/) - Gay singer and model Daníel Óliver performed at the Stockholm Pride in Sweden recently. Around ten thousand people listened to the Icelander sing his songs DJ Blow My Speakers and Criminal Love. Overall it is estimated that around one hundred thousand people showed up for the Stockholm Pride this year. After a well received performance
- [Photos: OUT Party](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-out-party/) - Out, America's premiere life-style magazine for gay men, is featuring Iceland in it's November issue. Staff members from the editorial team are currently traveling around the country doing interviews and taking pictures for the issue. Visit Reykjavík (i. Höfuðborgarstofa) organized a party for the group at Reykjavík Art Museum (i. Hafnarhúsið), last Friday night, attended by
- [Nothing is forbidden](https://gayiceland.is/2014/nothing-is-forbidden/) - Glamorous, glitzy, chic and edgy. What started out as an experiment two years ago has turned into one of Reykjavík's most eagerly anticipated celebrations. The queerest club night in town returns tonight when Pink Iceland throws it's annual Glamoween party. „The party is the result of demands from queer guests visiting Iceland for Airwaves. Last year so many where asking: "Where is the
- [Photos: Diving Divas](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-diving-divas/) - On August 6th Reykjavík swimming pool Sundhöllin was transformed into a concert hall for one evening, as a part of the Reykjavík Pride festival. The atmosphere was nice and cozy as the crowd (either sitting down with a drink or paddling in the pool) enjoyed live performances of renowned musicians Josefine Winter, Elín Ey, Felix
- [Photos: Opening Ceremony](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-opening-ceremony/) - For the past years the opening ceremony has been one of Reykjavík's Pride most fun and popular events and this year certainly wasn't any different. Last Thursday evening kicked of with a brass band playing popular rainbow tunes at the Harpa Concert Hall, quickly followed by songs performed by The Queer Choir and Hafsteinn Þórólfsson. The chair of Reykjavík Pride, Eva María
- [Photos: The Pride Parade 2](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-the-pride-parade-2/)
- [Photos: The Pride Parade 1](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-the-pride-parade-1/) - The Reykjavík Pride took place for the 16th time last week with a record-breaking 100,000 spectators and participants attending the big Parade on Saturday. That is roughly one-third of the whole population. As usual the were lots of glimmer, gloss and colorful costumes to be seen. But also a strong underlying message reminding us that the battle for equal
- [A green meal in a lava field](https://gayiceland.is/2015/a-green-meal-in-a-lava-field/) - Fancy of dining in with locals in Iceland? Although not a common practice in Iceland there are a few individuals who open up their homes for strangers and offer a memorable dining experience. Travel guide Sólveig Jónsdóttir and sculptor Anna Sigurjónsdóttir not only offer their guests delicious and healthy food but also bicycle tours in the southwest
- [Winter wonderland](https://gayiceland.is/2013/winter-wonderland/) - lanning a trip to Iceland this winter? Then make sure to pack some warm clothes, walking shoes and waterproof shoes, cause its been snowing heavily for the past days. These wonderful pictures by renowned photographer and journalist Ellert Grétarsson (ELG), who has travelled around the country with his camera, should give you an idea of
- [Queer concert and party tonight!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/queer-concert-and-party-tonight/) - Pop legends Lay Low and Paul Oscar (Páll Óskar) will perform together for the first time ever at the Queer Concert at Harpa, the concert hall in Reykjavik tonight at 20.30. The concert is part of the hugely anticipated Rainbow Reykjavik winter festival which started yesterday with the arrival of visitors from all around the world.
- [Winter Pride is Booming](https://gayiceland.is/2013/winter-pride-is-booming/) - “You can say that this is a kind of winter pride for people what want a little boost in the winter darkness” This is going to be a huge festival and we've had great support everywhere, which is fantastic. You can say that this is a kind of winter pride for people what want a little boost in the
- [Rainbow Reykjavik 2014](https://gayiceland.is/2014/rainbow-reykjavik-2014/) - In the past few years, Iceland has become an increasingly popular tourist destination for LGBTQ travelers. Several hotels and guesthouses are owned or operated by members of the LGBTQ community, and one company, Pink Iceland , specializes in organizing gay and lesbian friendly tours and events. For the past three years, Pink Iceland has organized an annual
- [The Redmayne controversy](https://gayiceland.is/2015/the-redmayne-controversy/) - The casting of Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne in the role of transwoman Lili Elbe in Tom Hooper’s film The Danish Girl has caused quite an outrage in the transgender community. It has been argued that in this day and age it’s a scandal to cast a cisgender man in the role. He could never understand
- [Outside the box](https://gayiceland.is/2015/outside-the-box/) - A non-binary day held in Iceland for the very first time. Non-binary Iceland is hosting its first non-binary day at Loft hostel tonight at 20Pm. The day is being held specifically to raise awareness about non-binary gender identities - "an umbrella term covering any gender identity or expression that does not fit within the gender binary.
- [Trans people's rights](https://gayiceland.is/2015/trans-peoples-rights/) - Lecture on trans people’s right in Iceland and Lithuania, held at the University of Iceland today. For the last two years Q – Queer Student Association has been working on a project about transgender issues with LGL, a LGBT organization in Lithuania. From the 19th-22nd of March two representatives from LGL will be visiting and
- [Good to be queer in MR](https://gayiceland.is/2015/good-queer-mr/) - This week the students of Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík (MR) celebrate queer days for the first time in the history of this oldest junior college of Reykjavík. The common rooms of the school have been decorated in all the colours of the rainbow for just the right feel and all through the week there will be
- [Gay muslims can marry](https://gayiceland.is/2015/gay-muslims-can-marry/) - Icelandic Muslims have experienced growing prejudice after attack on the editorial office of Charlie Hebdo in Paris last month and the Copenhagen shootings this month. The chair of the Association of Muslims in Iceland says he’s getting tired of generalisations made about Muslims, such as that all Muslims are homophobic, which he claims to be
- [Forget the 50 Shades crap!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/forget-the-50-shades-crap/) - Erotic literature has been in the spotlight lately, thanks to the 50 Shades of Grey trilogy that now has become a hugely hyped film. But what really makes a text erotic? Is it graphic descriptions of people having sex, leaving nothing to the imagination, or is it the undertones in the text that rouse our
- [A showgirl showdown](https://gayiceland.is/2015/a-showgirl-showdown/) - Contestants of American reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race will be performing live in Reykjavík city in April this year. If you love drag queens you are in for a treat. The queens of popular TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race will be performing in Reykjavík city on the 17th April this year. Every year a group of the show’s
- [Food & Fun: A killer combo](https://gayiceland.is/2014/food-fun-a-killer-combo/) - Restaurants in Reykjavik offer food and fun all year around but during the last week of February they emphasize that by having an annual Food & Fun festival. Food and fun! A killer combo that is hard to resist, especially when the food is prepared by world renowned chefs using fresh, natural Icelandic ingredients. This
- [Put your mask on!](https://gayiceland.is/2015/put-your-mask-on/) - Prepare to put your mask on and dance to the beat of Iceland’s superstar Páll Óskar at the most glamorous LGBT party of the year, The Annual Masquerade Pink Party next Saturday, January 31st at Iðnó, a part of the Rainbow Reykjavik Winter Pride Festival. The Masquerade Pink Party last year was a huge success and Páll
- [More seek treatment](https://gayiceland.is/2015/more-seek-treatment/) - Recent boom in number of transgender people in Iceland. Before trans-women dominated by three to one but not any more. Younger also seeking treatment. A more common issue than was previously thought says transgender expert. "The number of transgender people has grown in Iceland and this is consistent with similar development in other countries," says dr. Óttar Guðmundsson,
- [Sports for everyone](https://gayiceland.is/2014/sports-for-everyone/) - Styrmir, the local queer sports club in Iceland, recently released its winter schedule. Jón Þór Þorleifsson, board member of Styrmir, took the time to tell us all about the club and what to expect in the coming months. What kind of club is Styrmir? "It's a very active sports club where everyone is welcome - queer or not.
- [Getting to zero](https://gayiceland.is/2014/getting-to-zero/) - "Even though people with HIV can live a normal life if they take their drugs as prescribed it's still a serious matter, and education is needed to prevent HIV, " says Einar Þór Jónsson chairman of the HIV Iceland organization that are hosting World Aids Day December 1st at their offices at Hverfisgata 69 in Reykjavík
- [TORSO Reykjavík now online](https://gayiceland.is/2014/torso-reykjavik-now-online/) - A film project which explores the humanity behind the online gay community in Reykjavík has been released online. In TORSO Reykjavík director Tim Marshall seeks to uncover the vast and varied stories existing within it by interviewing men who use popular dating apps such as Grindr and Scruff . Full of interesting facts and revelations about the
- [Not to miss in December](https://gayiceland.is/2014/not-to-miss-in-december/) - In fear of getting lost in Iceland over the holidays? Bewildered when faced with the ö’s and ð’s and þ’s of the tourist brochures? Wondering why Forbes selected Iceland as the coolest place to visit in the year 2015? Or why CNN nominated Reykjavík last year as one of the 10 best places to spend Christmas?
- [More than a pussy or a penis](https://gayiceland.is/2014/more-than-a-pussy-or-a-penis/) - Today, November 23rd, is the Transgender Day of Remembrance and in light of that a special event will take place at the City Hall (i. Ráðhúsið) at 17:30. Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir met Ugla Stefanía Jónsdóttir, the chair of Trans-Iceland, at The University Bar (i. Stúdentakjallarinn), for a quick chat about the issues transgender people face in Iceland. When asked
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | Only 30 days to go](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-2012-only-30-days-to-go/) - With only 30 days to go until the annual Gay Pride takes place in Reykjavik events surrounding the six day festivities are quickly shaping up. Some hugely anticipated dance-parties, a gay cruise, stand-up, various concerts, art exhibits and a family festival are just around the corner apart from the parade itself of course which is
- [2012: What a great year!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/2012-what-a-great-year/) - Hi, guys and girls and a HAPPY NEW YEAR! Vow, time flies by, 2012 is just behind us and we already have a lot of exciting things lining up in 2013. But before we head off to the near future, why not take a stroll down memory lane and remember what 2012 was all about. Fun
- [Embassy employees fool around](https://gayiceland.is/2014/embassy-employees-fool-around/) - Aaaw, how cute. American employees of The U.S. Embassy in Reykjavík try to pronounce Icelandic phrases in a new video. The embassy had previously encouraged the public to send in proposals, word plays and phrases, for the employees to try out. So enjoy and make sure not to miss the end. Post by US Embassy Reykjavik
- [Photos: Kiki's Halloween](https://gayiceland.is/2014/photos-kikis-halloween/) - Halloween is all about trick-or-treating – but it's also about getting dressed up. These guests turned up as their wicked best at Kiki's spooktacular party. All photos by Aníta Eldjárn. Courtesy of Kiki.
- [Want's blood ban lifted](https://gayiceland.is/2014/wants-blood-ban-lifted/) - Gay rights activist Troy Jonsson (Mr. Gay Iceland) is taking the Icelandic government to court for upholding a ban on blood bank donations from gay and bisexual men. In an interview with Gay News Network Jonson says the ban is based on outdated information from "way back" referring to the height of the AIDS/HIV epidemic (as
- [Make the Yuletide gay!](https://gayiceland.is/2011/xmas/) - Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Let your heart be light From now on, our troubles will be out of sight Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Make the Yuletide gay, From now on, our troubles will be miles away. Here we are as in olden days, Happy golden days of yore. Faithful friends who
- [Reykjavík to host World Out Games 2017?](https://gayiceland.is/2012/reykjavik-to-host-worldoutgames-2017/) - Chances are high that the worldOutgames will be held in Reykjavík in 2017. The website Gay Star News claimed to have a reliable source that Rome and Rio de Janeiro were now out of the picture, leaving the choice between Reykjavík and Miami Beach in Florida. The openly gay Prime Minister of Belgium has now confirmed
- [A Political Pride](https://gayiceland.is/2012/a-political-pride/) - Yesterday we posted a translation of an article by Erla Hlynsdóttir published in Fréttablaðið and on Vísir.is under the caption "The Rain before the Rainbow". Erla expressed her thoughts on the Reykjavík Gay Pride Parade, leaving us amongst other things with this very powerful image: Far away I could see a float in the Parade that was different from
- [Congratulations Finland!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/congratulations-finland/) - The Finnish Parliament has voted to legalize same-sex marriages. Finland now joins the other Nordic countries allowing same-sex marriages and becomes the 12th country in Europe and the 20th country world-wide to legalize gay marriage. We here at GayIceland were very pleased to hear the news and we'd like to congratulate all Finns on this
- [Out and about in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2014/out-and-about-in-iceland/) - When someone tells you to “Get Out” – they don’t necessarily mean out of the closet (even though they might). Some are simply pointing towards new experiences – go out ... go somewhere new, if you have the chance. It’s a sure way to lengthen your life. Or they might be asking you to be
- [Positive towards same-sex parenting](https://gayiceland.is/2014/positive-towards-same-sex-parenting/) - Icelanders seem to be generally more positive than Americans, Germans and Scandinavians towards different types of families according to the results of a survey conducted by the International Social Survey programme (ISSP). When asked 86 percent of the Icelandic respondents said they thought two women were just as capable of raising a child as a man
- [We have nothing to lose](https://gayiceland.is/2014/we-have-nothing-to-loose/) - One is a former soccer player. The other used to be a member of a synchronized skating team. Together they’re on their way of becoming the first ever same-sex dance partners to compete in an adult category for Iceland internationally. Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir met with Margrét Sigurðardóttir and Sigrún Þuríður Runólfsdóttir to talk about their participation
- [Blame it on the gays!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/blame-it-on-the-gays/) - With great powers come great responsibility. It‘s true for Spiderman, and apparently it‘s true for queer people too, probably because being gay is a superpower of sorts. I think. That is, at least, the only logical conclusion I can come to, after compiling the following list of things gays have been blamed for over the
- [Ban Ki-moon praises Conchita](https://gayiceland.is/2014/ban-ki-moon-praises-conchita/) - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon hosted a special meeting with Eurovision's winner Conchita Wurst in Vienna, Austria, today. Secretary General Ban praised Wurst for her talent and thanked her for turning the Eurovision song contest into a "moment of human rights education". He also grabbed the opportunity to say that this year he extended benefits to same-sex partners
- [Grindr profiles on display](https://gayiceland.is/2014/grindr-profiles-on-display/) - You have a Grindr profile? Well, then you might want to think carefully about what you say on it, because Australian artist Adam Seymour is creating watercolor depictions of interesting profiles he has come across on the popular gay men's hook-up app. Choosing his subjects by humorous tags and screenshots of profiles sent by friends, Seymour says he's intrigued by the
- [One torso at a time](https://gayiceland.is/2014/one-torso-at-a-time/) - TORSO Reykjavik explores the humanity behind the online gay community in Reykjavik and uncovers the vast and varied stories existing within it. Director Tim Marshall confesses that he was surprised by the honesty of the Icelandic participants and their willingness to open up. "The project begun as an experiment after I found myself becoming disillusioned with apps like Grindr. Being
- [Want to host a party?](https://gayiceland.is/2014/want-to-host-a-party/) - iki – the queer bar you probably know if you’ve been partying in Iceland – is searching for an awesome candidate to host a party. Private party. Wait … what? If you already follow Kiki on Facebook you might have noticed an interesting post the other day, where the bar searched for a party host.
- [Equal but separate?](https://gayiceland.is/2014/equal-but-separate/) - he ministry for foreign affairs in Iceland recently announced that Iceland will be hosting a conference in New York in January 2015 on gender equality, aimed specially at men, with the theme "The Barbershop". The conference is held in cooperation with Surinam and The United Nations. There are understandably, mixed feeling about the endeavour because
- [Let's party!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/lets-party/) - Looking for a bloody good time this weekend? Then get ready, because this Saturday there will be plenty of Halloween parties to choose from in Reykjavík. These are the ones you absolutely shouldn't miss. Queer bar KIKI is already gearing up for its spooktacular party and manager Árni Grétar promises a house full of dancing zombies
- [Must see TV](https://gayiceland.is/2014/must-see-tv-2/) - t looks like we, the LGBT audience, will have a lot to look forward this winter. Long gone are the days when catching a queer character on TV was a rarity. An ill-conceived two-dimensional, flat and unbelievable one at best. Now its more like you can't turn it on unless seeing a least one gay, bi
- [Bend over Putin!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/bend-over-putin/) - "For me it's not provocative to show love between two men, but seeing opposing statesmen in love challenges people to understand that love is the answer to everything and that love makes everyone beautiful...even Putin," says Danish artist Jim Lyngvild, who literally wants world leaders to make love, not war. Lyngvild has created a new exhibition
- [Ebola: Gays to blame](https://gayiceland.is/2014/ebola-gays-to-blame/) - The Ebola virus is a plague unleashed by God to punish homosexuality and other immoral acts. This is the unanimous conclusion of a recent meeting attended by church leaders from the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) in Liberia, West Africa. The purpose was to discuss "a spiritual response" to the outbreak of Ebola, which has
- [Supernannies and time out chairs](https://gayiceland.is/2014/supernannies-and-time-out-chairs/) - hey say it takes a village to raise a child, and in our case it took at least five, the biological mom and dad, foster parents and a social worker. It all started when a friend asked if I would consider volunteering as a teacher for a group of bilingual kids. Each Saturday for two
- [City Library receives a gift](https://gayiceland.is/2014/city-library-receives-a-major-gift/) - amtökin '78, The National Queer Organization of Iceland, donated a part of its library, a total of 2.400 titles, mostly literature and academic publication, to The Reykjavík City Library and Gender Studies at University if Iceland’s Faculty of Political Science, yesterday, on the 23rd of September. The organization is at a turning point as it is
- [Proud to be average](https://gayiceland.is/2014/proud-to-be-average/) - e 's the first to get Iceland into the top ten finals in Mr. Gay World. And now he has a new album coming out next year. We spoke to Troy Michael Jónsson about his music career, the decision to move to Iceland, his passionate battle for lgbt rights and the pressure of taking part in a
- [Iceland in second place](https://gayiceland.is/2014/iceland-second-best-place-to-be-gay-and-lesbian/) - The Netherlands (83%) narrowly beat Iceland (82%) and Canada (80%) as the best place in the world to be gay and lesbian according to a Gallup poll in 123 countries. On average nearly 3 in 10 say their areas are good for gay and lesbians which shows there is still a lot of work to
- [Charged for vagina propaganda](https://gayiceland.is/2014/charged-for-uterus-propaganda/) - va may be Iceland's first band that has ever been charged for inappropriate lyrics. Most likely the world's first band to be charged for vagina propaganda. We spoke to band members Vala Höskuldsdóttir and Sigríður Eir Zophoníasardóttir about their new record set to hits stores in Iceland in November. How a theatrical background has influenced their music career. And the charges which
- [A pie to die for: crust and filling](https://gayiceland.is/2014/pie-crust-and-filling/) - Welcome to this (hopefully) monthly cooking column! My name is Ben, and I ran the home-delivery bakery “Hveiti og Smjör” (Icelandic for Flour and Butter). The editors have asked me to try to work up our collective kitchen skills, and two of my passions are teaching and baking, so I am really excited. These first
- [Cheap Booze](https://gayiceland.is/2014/cheap-booze/) - heap booze? Yes please! Icelandic liquor prices can be insane, so here is a way to get a buzz in your own home for much less: A home-made hard cider. All you need is apple juice, bread yeast sugar, and a bottle. I’m using a fancy stopped version from Ikea, but even a 2-liter soda
- [The sinful hama beads](https://gayiceland.is/2014/the-sinful-hama-beads/) - owadays, it seems like you have to qualify for almost anything you do. Want to drive a car? Study, take tests, get a license. Want to get a job? Study, take tests, get a degree. Want to buy a house? Fill in forms, apply for a loan, get approved. Want to work with children and
- [We could learn from Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2014/canada-should-learn-from-iceland/) - o you know someone who works hard, always puts others first and never takes a break? We probably all know people like that but how often do we get an opportunity to actually reward them for their special qualities? TV program Operation Vacation makes this a reality as it receives nominations from families and friends
- [We need to keep the fire going](https://gayiceland.is/2014/we-need-to-keep-the-fire-going/) - or over three decades Sigríður Beinteinsdóttir, otherwise known as Sigga Beinteins, has been one of Iceland's most prominent singers. Today she'll be performing her new single, "Surrender", at the Reykjavík Pride outdoor concert (at Arnarhóll). We spoke to Sigga about her newly released song, what it takes to make it in the music industry for
- [CAUTION: PRIDE](https://gayiceland.is/2014/caution-pride/) - t's that time of year again here in Iceland. And by that, I don't mean the usual whining about the blatantly obvious lack of sun. It's time for the greatest LGBTQI party of the year, Reykjavik Pride, held between 5-10th of August. It's an enormous event, Tuesday til Sunday, sometimes attracting up to a third of
- [Someone will likely get laid](https://gayiceland.is/2014/someone-will-probably-get-laid/) - eykjavik Pride is amongst Iceland's most vibrant and colorful yearly events. Tomorrow night a variety of artists will be performing at the popular Opening Ceremony at Harpa Music Hall at 9PM. Amongst them none other than American drag queen, recording artist, actress and self proclaimed matress Willam Belli, who undoubtly will manage to get the
- [Naked Mountain Guides in Skaftafell](https://gayiceland.is/2012/naked-mountain-guides-in-skaftafell/) - Mountain guides (i. fjallaleiðsögumenn) at Icelandic Mountain Guides have been in the spotlight for the past few days after posting a picture of themselves in the nude on Facebook. "Our boss in Reykjavik asked us to take a picture of the group without further instructions. So we decided to do it in an entertaining way,"
- [Lalli Sig: My Favorite Places](https://gayiceland.is/2013/lalli-sig/) - “as it [Seljalandsfoss] faces west you can experience the sunset standing behind it” arus Sigurdarson, also known as Lalli Sig, is a professional freelance photographer living in Reykjavik. He photographs mostly people, both privately (portraits, weddings) and for advertisements. He tries to make the best he can of living in the beautiful landscapes in Iceland
- [Excuse me...](https://gayiceland.is/2014/excuse-me/) - onsider yourself an activist? Then you know that taking an active stand against injustice is never easy. If it was, you would be doing something wrong because changing a society is damned hard work. Therefore it is, to a certain extent, understandable, that when someone is, say a women’s or queer rights activist, fighting against
- [Iceland among top ten gay wedding destinations](https://gayiceland.is/2014/iceland-among-top-ten-gay-wedding-destinations/) - Lonely Planet puts Iceland on list of top ten gay wedding destinations. "Take your pick of mind-blowing backdrops for the ceremony: beside a thundering waterfall, in a rustic wood church or surrounded by hulking blue glaciers. Iceland's magical landscapes make a perfect backdrop to any ceremony," the travel guide states, putting Iceland in eight place
- [Make the Yuletide Gay](https://gayiceland.is/2013/make-the-yuletide-gay/) - Make sure your holiday season starts with on of the best holiday events in town, namely Reykjavik Queer Choir's Christmas Concert which will be held at Neskirkja (at Hagatorg, 107 Reykjavik) today, Saturday 7th of December, at 5pm. The choir will perform with a band and classical singer, song-writer and actress Andrea Gylfadóttir (of Todmobile fame). The choir, which is
- [Icelanders act against Uganda's anti-gay bill](https://gayiceland.is/2014/icelanders-must-act-against-ugandas-anti-gay-bill/) - he National Queer Organization of Iceland (i. Samtökin '78) and Amnesty International have started a joint campaign to help raise awareness and money for LGBT organisations in Uganda, where president Museveni Yoweri has just recently signed into law a bill toughening penalties for gay people. The bill includes life sentences for gay sex and same-sex marriage and closure of LGBT
- [Time to get tested?](https://gayiceland.is/2014/time-to-get-tested/) - "HIV is spreading in Iceland between men having sex with other men. That is why, we The HIV Organization Iceland, The National Queer Organization, Q - Queer Student Association and The National University Hospital of Iceland are jointly for the first time offering a free HIV-test today, Thursday March 27th. This we do to raise awareness hopefully to reduce
- [The Pride Programme is out!](https://gayiceland.is/2014/rvik-pride-programme-2014/) - njoy watching fit swimmers flex their muscles, going to a beach party, sailing on-board a ship full of fun people or just partying non stop? Well, then there are plenty of exciting events to choose from at the forthcoming Reykjavik Pride (August 5th-10th) as this years programme clearly exemplifies. Like before the Opening Ceremony and Dance are among the
- [Smokey Bay after midnight](https://gayiceland.is/2014/smokey-bay-after-midnight/) - ey there, readers of Gayiceland.is! Are you in serious need for fun? Want to go out but haven’t got a clue where all the cool people hang out in Reykjavík or where to get decent music. No worries. My name is Óli Hjörtur and for the next 5 minutes (or 10 if you’re a slow reader) I'm
- [Mommy, look at the leather daddy!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/mommy-look-at-the-leather-daddy/) - “I tend to forget what the LGBT people had to go through to get here” 'm an almost 30 (shut up), straight, white, over average height, dark-haired man. For me, life couldn't be any easier. Statistically speaking. When I complain about something it's like Paris Hilton complaining about her diamond shoes being too tight. Or Justin Timberlake complaining
- [At 40, Grindr emails you a death certificate](https://gayiceland.is/2014/at-40-grindr-emails-you-a-death-certificate/) - neaky-funny..." (The New Yorker). "..enticing..." (Hypable). "...wispily and magically sexy..." (Vanity Fair). Why is HBO's gay TV show Looking getting such rave reviews in the US and the world around and what makes it different from popular predecessors like Queer as Folk and Will & Grace? Björn Birgir Ingimundarson takes a closer look and tells you why. Steamy gay sex on prime time
- [Same sex partnership for 15 years](https://gayiceland.is/2011/191/) - Last month, on June 27th to be more exact, The National Queer Organization of Iceland celebrated not only its 33 years birthday but also the fact that fifteen years have now passed since the Icelandic Parliament (Althingi) approved a law recognizing the registered partnership between individuals of the same sex. On the same day
- [Rainbow Reykjavik | Spectacular and fun](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rainbow-reykjavik-spectacular-and-fun/) - traveller shares his experience of visiting the Rainbow Reykjavik festival in Iceland. Arriving in Iceland on Thursday and whisked away directly to the magical Blue Lagoon was the perfect start to an amazing weekend. After the relaxing soak a welcoming party at gay club Truno where we met the friendly locals, tasted Icelandic beer and schnapps
- [Road trips and guitar pics](https://gayiceland.is/2014/road-trips-and-guitar-pics/) - uly is supposedly the best month to travel to Iceland due to "great" weather. Most Icelanders use their vacation to go camping, hiking, swimming and to enjoy the seldom seen yellow thing called the sun. This month is all about music festivals, so pack your tent, sun screen (or just some warm clothes, boots and an umbrella),
- [Pride 2011 | MaryJet](https://gayiceland.is/2011/maryjet-mariette-hansson/) - ariette Hansson was born in 1983. She got her first guitar at the age of 11. She was admitted to Stureskolan music college in Halmstad where she met Linnea and Johanna, and together they formed the band Ethan Xiphias. Her first television appearance was in ”Sikta mot stjärnorna” where she did a cover of an
- [Hidden gems around Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2014/hidden-gems-around-reykjavik/) - o you feel like exploring some really cool places usually not mentioned in any of the typical Icelandic tourist books? Then pack some warm clothes, good hiking shoes/boots, a map, GPS (get directions just in case) and remember to take your cellphone along because there are sites around Reykjavík city really worth visiting. Here are our top five recommendations.
- [The allure of summer](https://gayiceland.is/2014/the-allure-of-summer/) - f you're the type that likes music, arts and festivals of all sorts as long as they're hip and cool then May is certainly the month to be in Iceland. But take note, by mid-May the sun is visible 24 hours a day so make sure to bring eye-shades along with you. Unless of course your OK with sleeping surrounded by
- [I love Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2014/i-love-iceland/) - routinely brag about Iceland to my friends and family. I am immensely proud of the progress it has made in women's rights, its representation in government and business and how it has decreased the pay gap between genders. I am doubly proud of the gay rights, the fact Iceland was not only the first to elect a female
- [Second class](https://gayiceland.is/2014/second-class/) - ave you ever found yourself in the situation where other people, who don‘t know anything about you, are discussing whether or not you should be granted the same basic rights as anyone else? If you have, you probably belong to a minority in one way or another. This whole concept is wrong, in so many
- [Uganda: Is helping only making things worse?](https://gayiceland.is/2014/uganda-is-helping-only-making-things-worse/) - The new anti gay laws in Uganda have sparked widespread criticism around the world. The Icelandic parliament, Althingi, will soon discuss a cross party resolution condemning the laws and calling for the re-organizing of humanitarian aid to Uganda with a focus on supporting gay and lesbian organizations in the poverty hit Center African state. Personally, I'm
- [Fishing and fooling around](https://gayiceland.is/2014/fishing-dancing-and-fooling-around/) - Even though Icelanders celebrate the first day of summer on the 24th of April, the summer usually starts with cold weather and perhaps a bit of snow. But even though April can be somewhat cold out here in the North, it's also a very beautiful and bright time to be here and there are plenty of exciting and fun
- [A date with Calvin Klein](https://gayiceland.is/2014/a-date-with-calvin-klein/) - Creativity, design, architecture and inspiration will take Reykjavik with a storm next weekend (27th – 30th of March). DesignerMarch (i. HönnunarMars) is one of the largest design happenings in Iceland with around 100 exciting events taking place in the capital city, ranging from cool exhibitions to lectures by famous designers and architects. With so many events happening at the sama time it's
- [Why are you gay?](https://gayiceland.is/2013/why-are-you-gay/) - “People tend to get the idea that lesbians don't like to be fucked (as in getting something long and hard up their muffin) but this statement is plainly wrong.” oon it will be three years since I came out as a lesbian. These years have been the best of my life, full of new people,
- [RIFF 2013: Gay Related Films](https://gayiceland.is/2013/riff-2/) - he tenth Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) starts today, Thursday the 26th of September. Until October the 6th Háskólabíó, Tjarnarbíó and The Nordic House will be brimming with interesting and exciting films from all over the world. As usual there will be a fair share of new interesting LGBT films to catch, as you can see
- [Hilmar elected chairman](https://gayiceland.is/2014/hilmar-magnusson-elected-chairman/) - Hilmar Magnússon has been elected chairman of The National Queer Organization of Iceland (i. Samtökin '78). In an interview earlier with national broadcasting company RÚV Hilmar stated that he will continue the good work of former chairman Anna Pála Sverrisdóttir by "getting the grassroot to keep on working for the organization. Listening to members of the organization and sparking their creativity." Hilmar has been
- [In or out of the shadows](https://gayiceland.is/2014/in-or-out-of-the-shadow/) - or decades LGBT rights were struggled for by millions of people and have become somewhat fashionable in recent years. But fashion can change on a dime. The LGBT community has won many victories and a real positive change has occurred in the last decades. And of course a large part of the general public has changed it's views mainly due to education and open debate. To realise that you just
- [The joy and challenge of trans-parency](https://gayiceland.is/2013/the-joy-of-trans-parency/) - “If the National registry says I‘m a woman, what comes out of a little refrigerator in a medical clinic isn‘t going to change that.” arly on a cold October morning, two women rush to the hospital. One of them is in labor. A few hours later their son is born. As with any couple, the
- [Progress and setbacks](https://gayiceland.is/2014/progress-and-pusbacks/) - ith the blink of an eye 2013 is over. Considered by many to be on of the most trying (or plainly boring) years in recent history, but we here at Gayiceland.is like to remember it for other things. Lets see what some of our hardworking journalists and columnists have to say about all the great
- [Happy New Year!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/happy-new-year/) - gleðilegt nýtt ár godt nytår gelukkig nieuwjaar onnellista uutta vuotta bonne année gott nýggjár ein gutes neues Jahr felice anno nuovo godt nyttår szczęśliwego nowego roku feliz año nuevo gott nytt år laimingų Naujųjų Metų
- [Booty Call, Boys and Girls!](https://gayiceland.is/2011/booty-call-boys-and-girls/) - Now that summer has finally arrived in Iceland with its breeze and ever bright nights it’s time to shake some booty. Gay Pride is just around the corner so get your dresses, make up and the good mood out of the closet if it isn't already. Begin to warm up for the year’s biggest gay party,
- [Happy 1st Birthday to Kiki Queer Bar](https://gayiceland.is/2014/happy-1st-birthday-to-kiki-queer-bar/) - Time flies when you're having fun, this weekend Kiki Queer Bar is celebrating its 1st birthday. Happy hour on beer the whole weekend, special price on long-drinks and great DJs, let's go and celebrate.
- [Instagram](https://gayiceland.is/2014/instagram/) - #gayiceland #pinkiceland #rainbowreykjavik [alpine-phototile-for-instagram user="gay_iceland" src="global_tag" tag="gayiceland" tag="pinkiceland" tag="rainbowreykjavik" imgl="instagram" style="gallery" row="4" grwidth="750" grheight="563" size="M" num="30" shadow="1" highlight="1" align="center" max="100"]
- [Not to miss over the holidays](https://gayiceland.is/2013/not-to-miss-over-the-holidays/) - Feeling lost in Iceland over the holidays? Bewildered when faced with the ö’s and ð’s and þ’s of the tourist brochures? Wondering why CNN nominated Reykjavík as one of the 10 best places to spend Christmas? To guide you through the Christmas season, we've come up with the definitive list of things to do in
- [Jón Gnarr | Hot Slut of the Day](https://gayiceland.is/2012/jon-gnarr-hot-slut-of-the-day/) - ontroversial (but gay friendly and very popular) webpage Dlisted has named Jón Gnarr, the mayor of Reykjavík, as Hot Slut of the Day, not only for supporting gay rights but also standing up for the members of Pussy Riot. In case you haven´t been reading the headlines lately Pussy Riot is a Russian feminist punk-rock band
- [Humour is a Valuable Weapon](https://gayiceland.is/2013/humour-is-a-valuable-weapon/) - “We suddenly felt like we were at a memorial for fallen lesbians and gays around the world.” hat is Gay Pride all about? Putting out a strong message, right? But which way is the best to do it? I must admit these thoughts passed my mind during the last Reykjavík Gay Pride here in Iceland.
- [Iceland: Trouble in queer paradise](https://gayiceland.is/2013/trouble-in-queer-paradise/) - “The oldest description of the country is from the 11th century and it presents the country as some sort of utopia, where the inhabitants live a simple, modest and satisfying life with their cattle in caves.” f you are foreign, also if you are Icelandic, you might be under the impression that Iceland is some
- [Pour l'égalite!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/pour-legalite/) - “Je soutient le droit au mariage et á l'adoption pour les homosexuels. Pour l'égalite, maintenant!” roposals to introduce same-sex marriage in France have provoked a strong backlash in recent weeks. Jón Gnarr, the mayor of Reykjavík, has for the past days been very clear on the subject. He fully supports the legalisation of gay marriage and adoption by gay couples in France. In
- [Former Prime Minister protests russian anti-gay law](https://gayiceland.is/2013/former-prime-minister-protests-russian-anti-gay-law/) - “People from around the world and their leaders are obligated to demand accountability.” - All Out co-founder Andre Banks. eople gathered outside the Russian Embassy in Iceland yesterday, to protest Russian law cracking down on gays. A law that has caused outrage in the West, especially after pictures and videos showing violence being carried out by a Russian
- [That's it Mr. Putin!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/thats-it-putin/) - emonstrators intend to gather in front of the Russian Embassy in Iceland (Garðastræti 33) today at 17PM to protest homophobia in Russia. A message from All Out: "Soon world leaders will meet President Putin in St Petersburg, Russia. It’s a massive opportunity for us to build the pressure. If we gather in our thousands just before the meeting,
- [Flirt with us](https://gayiceland.is/2013/flirt-with-us/) - “A long, passionate eye-fuck from across the room can really drive us crazy.” For lesbians, flirting is a subtle form of art. Apríl Smáradóttir gives valuable tips for girls who want to master the art of flirting with other girls and avoid awkward situations. So you have come to the point where you are actually thinking about doing it. For us lesbians,
- [And the Award goes to ...](https://gayiceland.is/2011/and-the-awards-go-to/) - The National Queer Organization (Samtokin '78) has announced that singer Páll Óskar Hjálmtýsson and psychologist Sigrún Sveinbjornsdóttir will be awarded with the LGBT Human Rights Awards, at the Reykjavik Gay Pride opening ceremony on August 4th. The awards are handed out every year to individuals and organizations that have worked for social acceptance of sexual
- [Declaration of love!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/declaration-of-love/)
- [Páll Óskar - La dolce vita (Official Video) ](https://gayiceland.is/2011/pall-oskar-la-dolce-vita-official-video/)
- [Hera Björk wins song contest](https://gayiceland.is/2013/hera-bjork-wins-song-contest/) - “This is just great for me and a recognition that I should keep on making music” celandic singer and gay icon Hera Björk has won the Vina del Mar Song competition in Chile for best song. Hera Björk was awarded with 35.000 USD and a trophy in the form of a seagull. “This is just
- [Hidden Gems in Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/2011/hidden-gems-in-reykjavik/) - There are many fun and exciting ways to get to know Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík. One is taking an informative walk through the city’s LGBT history which kicked off this summer. Tour guide Hilmar Magnússon brings to life the story of LBGT people who fought for gay rights in Iceland the last three decades, throwing in the
- [Kiki or just Kinky?](https://gayiceland.is/2013/kiki-or-just-kinky/) - “A crooked tiara only means that you are a queen having fun!” aving been the center of the gay scene in Reykjavik for many years, Laugavegur 22 is still going strong, mind you under a new guise: Kiki. Manager Árni Grétar Jóhannsson promises that the place will be packed this summer with people who
- [Drag Dad gets green light](https://gayiceland.is/2012/drag-dad-gets-green-light/) - Remember when we told you about upcoming film Drag Dad by Icelandic director Björn Flóki Björnsson? Further founding was need to finalize the documentary and now, partly thanks to our generous readers, it seems Drag Dad has gotten the green light from the production company. Below you can read a big thank you letter we
- [Culture | Dad in Drag](https://gayiceland.is/2012/culture-dad-in-drag/) - Upcoming Icelandic filmmaker Björn Flóki Björnsson is currently working on a new documentary called Drag Dad, as newspaper Morgunblaðið reports today. The film will examine the life of one James William Ross IV who became known in the States as drag queen performer Tracy Sanchez after winning popular reality TV show RuPaul´s Drag Race back
- [IGLA 2012 | A Roaring Success](https://gayiceland.is/2012/igla/) - Extremely positive reviews on IGLA 2012, The International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics held in Reykjavik in June/May, have been pouring in the media worldwide in recent days. All in all around 500 gay men and lesbians mostly from abroad took part in the event. Participants and visitors alike are sharing their thoughts on the global
- [Rvik Pride Parade 2012 | The biggest ever](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-parade-2012-the-biggest-ever/) - The Reykjavik Pride Parade starts at 2 p.m. and is expected to be the biggest ever. GayIceland caught up with one of the Pride Parade managers, the charming and witty Ásta Kristín Benediktsdóttir, who has been quite the busy bunny for the past months and found out why the Pride Parade is still relevant in Iceland
- [Jóhanna to present at WorldPride 2014](https://gayiceland.is/2013/johanna-joins-worldpride-2014/) - Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, the former Prime Minister of Iceland, will present at the WorldPride Human Rights Conference in Toronto, June next year. WorldPride 2014 Toronto is an international celebration incorporating activism, education and the history and culture of global LGBTTIQQ2SA* communities organized by Pride Toronto, host of Pride Week in Canada. When asked about her participation in the conference,
- [We will keep on pushing](https://gayiceland.is/2013/we-will-keep-on-pushing/) - “No matter who'll be in government after the elections, I’m optimistic they’ll help us make adoption the next thing...” n 2006 the Icelandic Parliament, Alþingi, legalized joint gay adoption. However since that time there has been little progress. Currently no same-sex couple has adopted a child in Iceland. Gayiceland.is met up with Anna Pála Sverrisdóttir,
- [Coming out and keeping faith](https://gayiceland.is/2013/coming-out-and-keeping-faith/) - “People have actually showed up to try to safe me from the harmful cult I'm in.” dad of three and a member of a christian congregation, known for anti-gay stance, comes to terms with the fact he's gay and decides to act out. Doesn't really sound like your typical coming out story. Still that's what Davíð Guðmundsson (32) just did four years
- [Wash without swimming suit](https://gayiceland.is/2013/wash-without-swimming-suit/) - “Some feel that their privacy is being violated by the bathing without swim suit rules.” visit to Iceland isn’t completed without a dip in one of the open air thermal pools located all over the country. Warm due to geothermal heat and extremely clean due to the strict bathing rules everyone must follow before entering
- [Breaking the ice over tasty Spanish Tapas](https://gayiceland.is/2013/breaking-the-ice-over-tapas/) - “There is definitely a need for a good venue, not necessarily a bar or a nightclub. So I thought a cooking class for gay women would be a great idea.” cooking class that promises a wonderful gay atmosphere will be held at Salt Eldhús later this month. There well-known chef Gunnar Helgi Guðjónsson will show gay women how
- [Jómfrúin: Where less is more and small is big](https://gayiceland.is/2013/less-is-more-and-small-is-big/) - “Smørrebrød is to be served at lunch, or a late lunch. The real enthusiastic lovers of smørrebrød would never eat it as dinner.” mørrebrød, Frikkadeller and Biximad may sound a bit strange and exotic to some ears. However in reality these are the names for Danish delights. Restaurant Jómfrúin, Lækjargata 4, has the best variety
- [Have a (h)app-y holiday](https://gayiceland.is/2013/have-a-happ-y-holiday/) - Oh, who doesn’t love a good old vacation, honey? Show of hands… everybody, yes ma’m. The lgbt-crowd are world-renowned hipsters so as a bunch of trendsetting extraordinaires we must make use of apps to set an example. Set the trend. Below is a list of apps, most of them Icelandic, that will make your journey absolutely orgasmically (it’s
- [Meeting Mr. Right changed my life](https://gayiceland.is/2013/meeting-mr-right-changed-my-life/) - he other day someone asked me how I felt about Iceland and especially the gay scene. "Acceptance" was the first word that sprang to mind. "Why?", you might be asking. Well to explain I have to tell you the story of how I settled in Iceland early 2007 not knowing anything about the country nor any
- [Iceland Express shows it's true colors](https://gayiceland.is/2012/1215/) - Flight attendants working for Iceland Express will done the colors of the rainbow flag in support of the Reykjavik Gay Pride festivities mbl.is reports today. The ladies wear scarfs and the men ties that symbolise the flag's colors. Also, the program guide for Gay Pride is distributed for free in Icelands Express' entire fleet. The gesture
- [Transgender rights legislation passed](https://gayiceland.is/2012/transgender-rights-legislation-passed/) - We here at GayIceland.is are proud and joyful over the Transgender Rights Legislation (i. Lög um réttarstöðu einstaklinga með kynáttunarvanda) passed by Iceland's Parliament on June 11th 2012 and which came into effect on June 27th, a day before the Christopher Street day. The purpose of the law is "to ensure that transgender people receive equal treatment before the law, in
- [Transgender people fully protected](https://gayiceland.is/2012/transgender-people-fully-protected/) - Eleven Icelandic MPs want to push into effect a new bill that further ensures the legal rights of transgender people in Iceland. According to Eygló Þóra Harðardóttir, MP of The Progressive Party (i. Framsóknarflokkur), the aim is to prevent that people can be denied of products or services based on their gender identity. Eygló also
- [Extremely touched by the wonderful reception](https://gayiceland.is/2013/extremely-touched-by-the-wonderful-reception/) - “We received an incredible number of messages from people, both gay and straight, who were happy about the fact that a woman, who had a same-sex partner, had been chosen to lead a country at a very difficult time in its history.” A new book about the relationship between former Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir and
- [Being gay is just fucking amazing!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/being-gay-is-fucking-amazing/) - “I’ve come to believe that if I hadn’t gone through this hurricane of emotions I wouldn’t be so strong and proud of myself as I am today.” hen I was younger I wondered why it was OK for girls to have their favorite Spice Girl, saying that Geri or Emma was their favorite because they
- [Others have to come out on their own terms](https://gayiceland.is/2013/the-fans-are-difficult-everywhere/) - “Supporters of other teams have on occasions made disrespectful remarks about my sexuality.” ast year Daníel Örn Einarsson became the first Icelandic handball player to publicly say he's gay and challenged the homophobic notion that sports and homosexuality don’t mix. He says gay athletes are still hesitant of coming out in Iceland, but shouldn't feel pressured
- [Bravó: Expect the unexpected](https://gayiceland.is/2013/bravo-expect-the-unexpected/) - “Bravó is a place where you celebrate life with friends, lovers and family.” t has been called the unofficial gay bar of Reykjavík and is already a hit with the Icelandic LGBT crowd. According to bar manager Ísar Logi Arnarsson Bravó, Laugavegur 22, is a place where you can expect the unexpected or everything ranging from experimental
- [A record number of participants](https://gayiceland.is/2013/4257/) - “When we started the event in 2005 no one had a clue what we were doing and for a long time people did not understand what this was all about and why we were doing this.” t's bear season. Meaning that this coming Thursday sees the opening of BEARS ON ICE, Icealand´s only Bear event.
- [Great Expectations: A human rights festival](https://gayiceland.is/2013/great-expectations-a-human-rights-festival/) - he National Queer Organization (i. Samtökin '78) have planned a human rights festival at the Throttarheimilid (i. Þróttarheimilið), close to Laugardalur, which will be held today between 17 - 18. The purpose of the festival, which goes by the name Great Expectations: Respect - Rights - Humanity, is to emphasize that the human rights, equality and dignity of every
- [An all girl trip to the magical Westfjords](https://gayiceland.is/2013/an-all-girl-trip-to-the-westfjords/) - “We decided it was time to create a women-only tour led by women, where we'd take care of most of the planning. All the girls have to do is show up and have a magical time!” e will be visiting amazing locations. This is a chance to truly connect with nature in great company," says Birna Hronn Bjornsdottir, co-owner
- [Dress to impress for a queer club night](https://gayiceland.is/2013/dress-to-impress/) - “Drag, gender bending, club kid, glamour, grunge. People should show up in whatever they feel like!” riginally an experiment to spice up Reykjavík's nightlife with some gay glamour the Pink Parties have become an event the Icelandic LGBT crowd eagerly awaits. Hannes Sasi Pálsson, co-owner of party host Pink Iceland, promises a vastly entertaining experience
- [Drag is fascianting, high heels are hell!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/retro-stefson/) - “...what fascinates me about this drag/trans-thing are all the heterosexual men that feel the need to dress up in women's clothes” - Unnsteinn Manuel Stefánsson ex operations, drag shows and bank robberies. The brand new music video from Retro Stefson, one of Iceland’s most popular bands, is everything but conventional. Gayiceland.is sat down with bandmembers
- [Get out the lederhosen](https://gayiceland.is/2013/oktoberfest/) - ave you been waiting for a chance to put your lederhosen or dirndl dress on? Well, now might actually be the opportunity. You see later today the Oktoberfest starts with all its beer drinking, singing, slap dancing and all kinds of entertainment - they even have a show about the history of beer and exotic circus acts planned for this evening. Hello,
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | Opening Ceremony in 7 days](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-gay-pride-2012-only-7-days-to-the-opening-ceremony/) - With only 7 days to go and for the fourteenth time the preparation for Reykjavik Gay Pride 2012 (i. Hinsegin dagar) is in full swing. We at GayIceland.is are also preparing for the Pride and we‘ve published a listing of all the events along with location maps. The program guide is also a helpful tool
- [Looking the part](https://gayiceland.is/2013/looking-the-part-of-queer-asylum-seekers/) - “[g]ay asylum seekers are increasingly going to extreme lengths to meet immigration officials' demands that they prove their sexual identity [...]. This includes filming themselves having sex.” ast week the Icelandic government decided to include queer peoplein a group of 10 to 14 refugees from Afghanistan (and perhaps Iran) which will be granted asylum in
- [Celebration of life, love and success](https://gayiceland.is/2013/celebration-of-life-love-and-success/) - eykjavik Pride has started with all it's glitter and glamour. We asked around what people are most excited about this year and got some interesting answers.[hr] Haffi Haff, musician (Hafsteinn Thor Gudjonsson) "There is always such a buzz in the air around Pride. It's a beautiful show that everyone can take part in. Also
- [Paris is Burning](https://gayiceland.is/2013/paris-is-burning/) - “Delves into sexual and ethnic self-image and elicits charges of exploitation.” efore RuPaul's Drag Race and Madonna's Vogue there was "ball-culture," drag-ball competitions in New York in the 1980's in which African-American and Latino drag-queens mimicked the preening of high-fashion models and movie legends. Now you have a chance to get an incredible look inside
- [Transgender Day of Remembrance](https://gayiceland.is/2013/transgender-day-of-remembrance/) - The international Transgender Day of Remembrance which is held on the 20th of November every year to commemorate victims of transphobia. On that occasion Trans Iceland, the Icelandic Trans Organization, and The National Queer Organization (i. Samtökin '78) have organized a programme at Fríkirkjan (church) at Fríkirkjuvegur 5, Reykjavík tonight at 20pm. Even though gays and lesbians have gained full legal
- [Homophobia in Russia](https://gayiceland.is/2012/homophobia-in-russia/) - St. Petersburg, the capital city of Russia, prides itself on its cosmopolitan reputation. Yet in one week the city will vote on a homophobic law that will silence millions by making it a crime to read, write or even discuss anything gay. If this law will be passed in St. Petersburg, the ruling party's next step
- [Iceland protests anti-gay bill in Uganda](https://gayiceland.is/2012/iceland-protests-anti-gay-bill-in-uganda/) - Össur Skarphéðinsson, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, says the Icelandic government will do everything in it’s power to fight against the legislation of a new anti-gay bill in Uganda. The legislation strengthens the criminalization of homosexuality by introducing the death penalty for people who are considered serial offenders. The bill was first introduced
- [I felt a lot of prejudice from lesbians](https://gayiceland.is/2013/i-felt-a-lot-of-prejudice-from-lesbians/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “When I came out I didn't know of the term pan, I only knew of lesbian, gay or bi and I felt I didn't fit into any of these boxes.” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]I[/dropcap4]n spite of young age María Birta (25) has already
- [Women kissing causes a strong reaction](https://gayiceland.is/2012/women-kissing-causes-a-strong-reaction/) - [fullwidth_text alt_background="none" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] A painting that shows two women kissing and is painted on one of the windows of Rvik City Hall has caused a strong reaction in Iceland. The painter, María Sif Daníelsdóttir, is the proud owner of the coffeehouse Öndin, in the building, and says that "tourists either love it or
- [I ♥ Alice ♥ I - Elderly lesbians reveal all](https://gayiceland.is/2012/elderly-lesbians-reveal-all/) - LÓKAL - International Theatre Festival Reykjavík will take place for the fourth time in the capital between the first and fourth of September. As usual guests will get a unique opportunity to attend as many as thirteen cutting edge staged events, both Icelandic and from abroad in a four days run. What really caught our attention this time around is gay
- [Always stay true to yourself](https://gayiceland.is/2012/always-stay-true-to-yourself/) - Daníel Óliver has made a big impression in Iceland and abroad both as a musician and a professional model in recent years. We met up with Daníel Óliver and found more about the highly talented artist who has a lot of exciting projects on the horizon, with a new single coming out this month and
- [Hail to the new King and Queen!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/hail-to-the-new-king-and-queen/) - We here at GayIceland would like to congratulate Johnny Rock and Shady Jones the new drag king and drag queen of Iceland! Both were crowned at the The Icelandic Drag Competition in Harpa on Thursday night. The annual contest has as usual gotten its fair share of attention from the media in Iceland - and
- [Friðrik Ómar | New record in the making](https://gayiceland.is/2012/fridrik-omar-new-record-in-the-making/) - Singer Friðrik Ómar is working on a new record (still untitled) - his second solo album in fourteen years. Gayiceland.is sat down with the renowned muscician who says the newest offspring will be even better and more energetic than previous records. How would you define the album? Well for starters it's gonne be hundred percent pop
- [Viggó and Víóletta off to New York](https://gayiceland.is/2012/viggo-and-violetta-off-to-new-york/) - "This is one of the worlds biggest Gay Pride festivals and it's truly an honor to be invited there," says actor Bjarni Snæbjörnsson, who alongside actress Sigríður Eyrún Friðríksdóttir, has been asked to perform at the New York Gay Pride in June next year. Bjarni and Sigríður are behind singing musical duo Viggó and Víóletta
- [Ok to be different in Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2012/ok-to-be-different-in-iceland/) - "I'm really happy with the reception, considering how they could have been. This could have been a death sentance in some other countries. In that sense there is a huge difference between Iceland and other countries," says Hrafnhildur, an icelandic trans-girl whos the subject of a new documentary which is named after her and was
- [Lady Gaga coming to Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2012/lady-gaga-coming-to-iceland/) - Avid readers of GayIceland.is should know by now that celebrities have been flocking to Iceland this year. Tom Cruise, Russel Crowe, Noomi Rapace, Ben Stiller, Jennifer Connelly, Ronan Keating, Patti Smith and Anthony Hopkins to name just a few. Well now international superstar Lady Gaga is on her way. Gaga is coming to receive a
- [A true eye opener](https://gayiceland.is/2012/a-true-eye-opener/) - The trans-documentary Hrafnhildur is getting raving reviews in Iceland. The critic for newspaper Morgunblaðið for example calls it a true eye opener on the life of trans-people, praising subject Hrafnhildur for letting the filmmakers into her life as well as director Ragnhildur Steinunn for a good job and finally gives it four out of five
- [Eurovision 2011](https://gayiceland.is/2011/eurovision-around-the-corner/) - Rehearsals for the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 are taking place in Düsseldorf, Germany. Everything went well for the Icelandic band Sjonni’s at The Esprit Arena earlier this week. Iceland’s entry this year is the song Coming Home, a relaxed song dealing with the preciousness of life. The composer Sigurjón Brink, better known as Sjonni Brink,
- [Bears on Ice Documentary](https://gayiceland.is/2011/bears-on-ice-documentary/) - British TV producer Jonathan Robinson will be documenting Bears on Ice in Iceland early September this year, as gayice.is reports. The DreamBears, a bear dance and cabaret troupe, will accompany Robinson to entertain themselves and participants in Bears on Ice. Robinson is a known producer from Manchester, England, who has been filming the growing bear
- [It's bear season!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/its-bear-season/) - Up to 80 merry men from all around the world are heading Iceland's way to take part in the four-day event Bears on Ice this weekend. Never before have so many showed up for the annual bear festival since it was first held in Iceland back in 2005. Guests will be greeted with a program full of exciting
- [Gore Vidal passes away](https://gayiceland.is/2012/gore-vidal-passes-away/) - Gore Vidal, the american novelist, playwright and scriptwriter passed away yesterday at the age of 86. Cause of death is thought to have been linked to pneumonia. Vidal will be remembered as much for his outspokenness as for his writing carer which span 60 years. Only as recently as 2008 he managed to cause controversy
- [Paul Oscar takes the stage](https://gayiceland.is/2012/paul-oscar-takes-the-stage/) - As usual pop sensation Paul Oscar will take part in the Reykjavik Pride Parade this year. In an interview in todays edition of Fréttablaðið the singer says that he intends to show up today in the form of a sea good surrounded by mermaids and all kinds of sea creatures. "It´s a reference to the
- [Faroe Pride 2012 | A huge succsess](https://gayiceland.is/2012/faroe-pride-2012-a-huge-succsess/) - The Faroe Pride was a huge success this weekend with an estimated number of between five and up to six thousand participants mbl.is reports. The planners were expecting around one thousand to show up and are therefore ecstatic with the results. They say that the huge number of people place the festivities as a milestone
- [Out of the golf closet](https://gayiceland.is/2012/out-of-the-golf-closet/) - Photo: Rainbow Golf Balls by MrStaticVoid (CC BY-NC-SA) "We know that there are people out there who want to play but are shy about it. Our aim is to get those people out of the golf closet and onto the golf course," says Kristinn Jónsson who alongside Hannes Þorsteinsson has formed a new LGBT golf
- [Lay Low | Mesmerizing](https://gayiceland.is/2012/lay-low-mesmerizing/) - Enchanting, genuine and highly entertaining are words that probably best describe Lay Low’s performance at the queer concert in Harpa last Friday – the first time she’s ever graced an audience with her presence at the concert hall. After being a little hesitant and shy to begin with, asking the “foreign” guests to excuse her bad
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | Events start today](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-2012-events-start-today/) - Although the opening ceremony is not until Thursday, the Reykjavik Gay Pride events for 2012 start today at 17 p.m., with the opening of an art exhibition by poet Kristín Ómarsdóttir at Reykjavik City library (i. Borgarbókasafn Reykjavíkur). Also today is a concert with The Icelandic Queer Choir and the premiere of documentary Hrafnhildur, a
- [Who will host the World Outgames?](https://gayiceland.is/2013/the-world-out-games-in-reykjavik/) - [vc_single_image image="ype-of-2627" image_size="full" frame="noframe" full_width="no" lightbox="yes" link_target="_self" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] Reykjavík and Miami have been shortlisted in bid to host the games [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="yes" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]J[/dropcap4]ón Gnarr, the mayor of Reykjavík, Iceland, is traveling off to Antwerpen in Belgium tomorrow where it will be
- [And the winner is ... Miami](https://gayiceland.is/2013/and-the-winner-is-miami/) - [vc_single_image image="2615" image_size="full" frame="noframe" full_width="no" lightbox="yes" link_target="_self" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “Both cities have a lot to offer the world's LGBT sportspeople” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="yes" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]I[/dropcap4]t was made known earlier tonight in Antwerpen, Belgium that Miami, Florida has been chosen over Reykjavík city to host the World
- [Come on in!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/come-on-in/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “With over 100.000 guests and 400 events, Culture Night is the biggest and most popular festival in Iceland.” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]T[/dropcap4]omorrow Reykjavík Culture Night will be held for the eighteenth time. The event, which is both created and enjoyed by city residents, takes place
- [An unusal story](https://gayiceland.is/2013/johanna-sigurdardottir/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “We've always tried to keep our personal life private. But now we felt it was time to make our story public.” - Jónína Leósdóttir. [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]A[/dropcap4] new book about the relationship between former Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir and her wife, author and journalist Jónína Leósdóttir will be published next month.
- [Pete Burns in Phallic Museum](https://gayiceland.is/2012/pete-burns-in-phallic-museum/) - And talking about celebrities...Gay british singer and tv personality Pete Burns is filming in Iceland for a show airing on BBC. Burns and crew were spotted in the ever popular Icelandic Phallological Museum (i. Hið íslenska reðasafn) downtown Reykjavík only recently (we were actually doing our regular morning exercise when we caught a glimpse of the icon!) . What the
- [Mayor of Reykjavik in Faroe Pride](https://gayiceland.is/2012/mayor-of-reykjavik-in-faroe-pride/) - "I heard the pride parade was taking place on my visit so I asked if I could participate. The organisers were ecstatic to have me," says Jón Gnarr, mayor of Reykjavik, who will take part in the Faroe Pride, Faroe Islands, this Friday. Gnarr is going on an official visit to the Faroe Islands starting
- [Pride Parade 2011 | A Change of Route](https://gayiceland.is/2011/a-change-of-plan/) - The Gay Pride festivities in Reykjavík have taken place annually in August since 1999. This year marks a drastic change for Pride as the parade will not follow it’s regular route down shopping street Laugavegur but instead start at bus station BSÍ going by Sóleyjargata, Fríkirkjuvegur and Lækjargata, ending with entertainment at Arnarhóll. Pride planners
- [The biggest small Pride in the World](https://gayiceland.is/2013/the-biggest-small-pride-in-the-world/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “With Pride we are thanking the Icelandic nation for its support but also reminding the audience of why we celebrate and march.” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]R[/dropcap4]eykjavík Pride is all about coming together, celebrating and making a stance against discrimination. Eva María Þórarinsdóttir Lange, chairman at Reykjavik Pride, believes
- [Best European Country](https://gayiceland.is/2012/best-european-country/) - Photo/Sævar Helgi Bragason Iceland was chosen the Best European country at the Guardian, Observer and guardian.co.uk Readers' Travel Awards 2012. According to guardian.co.uk the volcanic eruption in 2010 might be one of the reasons the country came in first place this year. "Iceland wins the crown this year, no doubt attracting visitors intrigued by all
- [Hiking with Halla: Laugavegur](https://gayiceland.is/2013/hiking-with-halla-laugavegur/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] Nature child Halla loves outdoor activities such as rock climbing, biking and hiking. She sometimes works as a private tour guide taking people on hiking journeys out in the wilderness of Iceland and spices it up with spiritual events, yoga, meditation practise and lots of humor. Halla is currently
- [Pink Iceland | Pink Wedding Planners](https://gayiceland.is/2012/pink-iceland-pink-wedding-planners/) - Hannes, Eva María and Birna Hrönn. Photo/Pinkiceland.is Pink Iceland is the LGBT travel expert in Iceland. The company was founded last year and is owned and operated by lesbian couple Eva María and Birna Hrönn along with their friend Hannes Páll. Together they have years of experience in tourism, event management, marketing and they've worked
- [Rainbow Reykjavik: A New LGBT Festival](https://gayiceland.is/2011/rainbow-reykjavik/) - Rainbow Reykjavik is a new LGBT festival held in Reykjavik, Iceland on February 16th – 19th 2012. The festival is a mix of fascinating culture, amazing nature, fantastic music, great food and a lot of fun. Click here for further information.
- [Rainbow Reykjavik | First day of the festival!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rainbow-reykjavik-first-day-of-the-festival/) - Winter festival Rainbow Reykjavik starts to day with a program paced with exciting things to experience. Currently there’s a lot of commotion in the local LGBT community as this is the first time the festival is being held in Iceland. Guests arriving at Keflavik Airport will be transported to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa which
- [Pink Iceland's first straight wedding](https://gayiceland.is/2012/pink-icelands-first-straight-wedding/) - Pink Iceland, the LGBT travel expert in Iceland, received a little unusual request the other day from an American couple getting married. Like most foreign couples Pink Iceland has helped with wedding arrangements the past year they were very much in love and really wanted to get married in Iceland. But unlike all they were
- [Cool Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/2013/cool-iceland/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “Iceland, where you can expect the warmest welcome” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]I[/dropcap4]celand is the coolest country to visit. Or at least it’s where you can expect the warmest welcome according to a new survey done by World Economic Forum. In the survey, Travel
- [Eurovision | Icelandic song stolen?](https://gayiceland.is/2012/eurovision-icelandic-song-stolen/) - “I was alone when I wrote my song and did it with integrity. This is the first time I’ve ever heard the other song,“ says singer Greta Salome, author of the song Remember me, Iceland’s contribution to the Eurovision Song Contest in Azerbaijan. In Iceland accusations have been made that the song is too similar
- [Bishop of Iceland pro gay-marriage](https://gayiceland.is/2012/bishop-of-iceland-pro-gay-marriage/) - The newly appointed bishop of Iceland, Agnes M. Sigurðardóttir, advocates gay-marriage. "According to the laws of this country priests can marry gay couples. If I were asked to do so I would of course tie the knot," the bishop says with determination in an interview with Icelandic newspaper DV. Adding she knows a lot of
- [Hrafnhildur documentary | Trailer online](https://gayiceland.is/2012/hrafnhildur-documentary-trailer-online/) - The trailer from upcoming trans-documentary Hrafnhildur is now online, in Icelandic. The documentary follows the turbulent four-year life of Hrafnhildur as she undergoes gender correction. Previous post on the documentary.
- [Reykjavík Queer Choir](https://gayiceland.is/2012/reykjavik-queer-choir-concert/) - The Reykjavik Queer Choir was founded late summer 2011 and has since then performed on different occasions. The choir's first official concert will be held on Saturday January 7th at Norræna húsið in Reykjavik at 4 pm. The ticket price is 2.000 kr. but those who order tickets online in advance get 10% discount. Order tickets. The income from ticket
- [Eurovision 2012 | Iceland has a winner!](https://gayiceland.is/2012/eurovision-2012-iceland-has-a-winner/) - Gréta Salóme and Jónsi will represent Iceland at the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest with the song Mundu Eftir Mér. They will compete in the first semi-final in Baku on May 22. This is the second time Jónsi (Jón Jósep Snæbjörnsson) participates in The Eurovision Song Contest. He performed on behalf of Iceland back in 2004, with
- [Icelandic drag competiton tonight](https://gayiceland.is/2012/icelandic-drag-competiton-tonight/) - The Drag competition of Iceland will take place at Harpa music hall tonight at 9 p.m. On that occasion both drag queen and drag king will be crowned. The competition is one of the most popular LGBT events in Iceland and is expected to attract a big crowd.This is the fifteenth time the contest is
- [Eurovision 2012 | Iceland Should drop out](https://gayiceland.is/2012/eurovision-2012-iceland-should-drop-out-says-paul-oscar/) - Pop singer Paul Oscar thinks Iceland should drop out of this year's Eurovision Song Contest. The former Eurovision contestant came to this conclusion after hearing news saying that a part of the poorer population in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan were the contest will take part for the first time in May, are being evicted
- [Eurovision in Februrary!](https://gayiceland.is/2013/2290/) - Are you as super excited as we are about the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden?! Well if so chances are you are probably chewing your fingernails off with impatience. May is like in four months, ages really. Well, LGBT travel and event specialist Pink Iceland seems to agree with us. They are teaming up with the icelandic
- [Finland | Armbands for identification](https://gayiceland.is/2012/finnlandarmbands-for-identification/) - Helena Eronen, a member of the political party the True Finns, wants members of minority groups in Finland to wear sleeve badges for identification. Eronen suggest a rainbow flag for gay people, a crescent for Muslims, and a hammer-and-sickle for Russians. The main purpose is to help the finnish police to distinguish who is an immigrant
- [Gaga helps AIDS patients](https://gayiceland.is/2012/gaga-helps-aids-patients/) - Lady Gaga accepted the Lennon Ono Peace Grant at Harpa music hall only two hours ago. Yoko Ono, the widow of John Lennon, and Jón Gnarr, the mayor of Reykjavik, delivered the award to a very humble and grateful Gaga. Yoko Ono used the oppertunity and said the singer has used her fame to raise
- [Trúnó | Open or closed?](https://gayiceland.is/2012/truno-open-or-closed/) - We've received several emails from devoted readers asking whether gay bar/cafe Trúnó is closed or not, unfortunately the answer is yes. Truno and Barbara at Laugavegur 22 were for years the best, friendliest and most popular gay venues in Iceland. The places merged into one and were unfortunately later closed, both are missed. The one
- [New Gay Club - Mens Only Bar](https://gayiceland.is/2011/new-gay-club-a-men-only-bar/) - A new gay club, Our Boys (i. Strákarnir okkar), has been opened in Reykjavik´s city center, the first only men club since MSC clubhouse closed down earlier this year. Located on Hverfisgata 46 the club is small and very cozy and the staff friendly. Our Boys is only a few steps away from popular gay
- [Men Only Nights](https://gayiceland.is/2011/men-only-nights/) - Members of MSC Iceland, the Icelandic men’s only leather club, have teamed up with nightclub Barbara to host special men only nights every Thursday. Recently MSC’s clubhouse was closed but now it seems the members have found a new home at the ever friendly Barbara, situated on Laugavegur 22 in the heart of Reykjavík. Men
- [Gnarr wants gay pride in Moscow](https://gayiceland.is/2012/gnarr-wants-gay-pride-in-moscow/) - Jón Gnarr, the mayor of Reykjavík, encourages Sergey Sobyanin, the mayor of Moscow, to lift the ban of gay pride and openly support the LGBT community to gain equal human rights. In a letter Gnarr recently wrote Sobyanin he talks about the over all great effects the gay pride festivities have had on Reykjavík’s image and the publics
- [A Choice Between Life and Death](https://gayiceland.is/2012/a-choice-between-life-and-death/) - A new transgender documentary titled Hrafnhildur will premiere on August 7th or the first day of Reykjavik Pride visir.is reports. The film chronicles the turbulent four-year journey of a trans womans gender makeover, including psychotherapy and hormonal treatment and its aftermath. The director Ragnhildur Steinunn Jonsdottir says that making the documentary was quite the roller coaster
- [Icelandʹs biggest Gay Club](https://gayiceland.is/2012/icelandʹs-biggest-gay-club/) - Adding to the line up of gay venues in Iceland comes the new Gay 46 at Hverfisgata 46, Reykjavik, which was launched last weekend with a roaring success. Gay 46 is Icelandʹs currently biggest gay club, situated under the same roof as The Boys Only Club (i. Strákaklúbburinn okkar). In addition to a large dance
- [A hero says goodbye](https://gayiceland.is/2012/a-hero-says-goodbye/) - Rasmus Rasmussen, openly gay singer, guitarist, songwriter and popular radio host from The Faroe Islands, has died at age 32. Rasmussen made the world headlines back in 2006 after being threatened and beaten up for being openly gay in The Faroe Islands where there’s still even today considerable discrimination against homosexuality. Rasmussen was rushed off
- [Kjallarinn | New gay bar/disco to open tonight](https://gayiceland.is/2012/kjallarinn-new-gay-to-open-tonight/) - For a while Gay 46 at Hverfisgata 46, Reykjavik, has been the only gay bar in Iceland. Tonight that is all going to change with the grand opening of a new gay bar/disco called Kjallarinn (e. The Basement) at Laugavegur 73 (main shopping street of Reykjavik). The owner is none other than Ingi Rafn Hauksson who's is
- [Russia: a bill to silence millions](https://gayiceland.is/2011/russia-a-bill-to-silence-millions/) - Political leaders in St. Petersburg are about to vote on law that will make it illegal for any person to write a book, publish an article or speak in public about being gay, lesbian or transgender. The ruling party led by President Medvedev and Prime Minister Putin could make millions of people invisible with the
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | US Embassy in parade](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-2012-us-embassy-to-participate-in-parade/) - The Embassy of the United States in Reykjavik, Iceland openly supports gay-rights. Employees of the embassy intend to voice this opinion by taking part in the Rvik Pride parade this year. Last year they showed up in the parade for the first time, following the mayor of Reykjavik, Jón Gnarr, and were well received.
- [Nike | Be True Pride Pack](https://gayiceland.is/2012/nike-be-true-pride-pack/) - Nike has launched the Be True Pride Pack, footwear and tees inspired by the LGBT community. The Pride Pack is a parts of Nike's 2012 Be True campaign. Three different kind of shoes were released on this special occasion at Nike's main stores in three different cities in the U.S., that is San Francisco, New
- [Gaga: Now I can do more](https://gayiceland.is/2012/gaga-now-i-can-do-more/) - As some of you know by now pop icon Lady Gaga left Iceland on Monday after accepting her LennonOno peace grant. After the award ceremony grateful Gaga wrote on Facebook: "Today was happiest day I've ever had. Here's me with my LennonOno Peace Prize. Yoko says, it's a piece of the sky," and adding "Thank you
- [Iceland meets celebrities](https://gayiceland.is/2012/iceland-the-new-celebrity-haven/) - Celebrities have been flocking to Iceland this summer. Currently there are two established Hollywood directors visiting the country, some top-notch actors and singers and Octopus, the yacht of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, moors just outside the Reykjavik harbour. First there was actor Tom Cruise working on his sci-fi adventure Oblivion earlier this summer. Co-stars Olga Kurylenko
- [Lay Low's Release Concert 18/11/2011](https://gayiceland.is/2011/lay-lows-release-concert/) - Lay Low along with her band will play songs from her new album "Brostinn Strengur" (e. Broken String) alongside some older songs at Fríkirkjan on Nov. 18th 2011 at 20:00. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to listen to Lay Low and her band. For further info on the location of the event click
- [Rvik Pride 2012 | Official Song ](https://gayiceland.is/2012/rvik-pride-2012-song/) - The Rvik Pride 2012 song is out! The song is performed by Viggó and Víóletta, aka. Bjarni Snæbjörnsson and Sigríður Eyrún Friðriksdóttir. The song is a cover of the Barbara Streisands song Don't rain on my parade and the name of it in Icelandic "Rönd í regnboga" translates as "Stripe in a rainbow." The lyrics in
- [Monster in the Closet](https://gayiceland.is/2012/monster-in-the-closet/) - RIFF (Reykjavik International Film Festival) is over this year but the career of upcoming Icelandic director Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen is just taking off. His new film Child Eater got a special mention at the festival where it was hailed as "a first class, refreshing horror film that got the audience jumping and screaming in their
- [Call Me Kuchu](https://gayiceland.is/2012/call-me-kuchu/) - RIFF, the Reykjavik International Festival, is currently showing dramas and non-fiction films from over 40 countries this year. One of the films that caught our eye is gay documentary Call Me Kuchu. Kuchu is slang for gay in Uganda in Africa where homosexuality is met with death penalty. The film tells the story of one David
- [Ochi Chyornye?](https://gayiceland.is/2013/dark-eyes/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] Sister agreement between Moscow and Reykjavik to be revoked? [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]J[/dropcap4]ón Gnarr, mayor of Reykjavik, has proposed that "the sister city" agreement between Reykjavik and Moscow will be revoked, in light of recent development in matters concerning the LGBT community in Russia.
- [Pride gets a Prize](https://gayiceland.is/2011/pride-gets-the-prize/) - Thumbs up for Reykjavík Gay Pride which has been awarded Reykjavik’s Human Rights Prize. The award ceremony took place atReykjavik’s City Hall on May 16th. The Prize is handed out every year after a committee has nominated several individuals, groups and/or organizations for outstanding contribution to the humanitarian cause. This year the honor befell on
- [Caught in the act](https://gayiceland.is/2012/caught-in-the-act/) - "The city police caught a homosexual red-handed the other night. The man had become acquainted with a "negro" from one of the ships in the harbour and had managed to get him to succumb to his needs." This is how a clipping from an old Icelandic newspaper reads. The clipping is a part of an
- [Hrafnhildur | A crowd pleaser](https://gayiceland.is/2012/hrafnhildur-a-crowd-pleaser/) - Trans-documentary Hrafnhildur has not only been getting good reviews in Iceland (news paper Morgunblaðið giving it 4 out of 5 stars) it also seems to appeal to a large audience of cinema goers. Well over 1.500 people have already seen it since the premiere more than three weeks ago making Hrafnhildur the most popular documentary in Iceland, according to the
- [Kjallarinn: Men Only Nights](https://gayiceland.is/2012/kjallarinn-men-only-nights/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] Social gathering for all types of men [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]B[/dropcap4]ears on Ice and sport organization Styrmir will be co-hosting a monthly Men Only Night at Kjallarinn this winter. The nights, which are described by organisers as a laid back social gathering for all types of
- [Sigur Rós on The Simpsons](https://gayiceland.is/2013/sigur-ros-on-the-simpsons/) - [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “I’m a longtime fan of Sigur Rós, and we’re honored to bring their Icelandic, ambient moods to our goofy cartoon show.” - Matt Groening. [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]I[/dropcap4]celandic band Sigur Rós, with openly gay front man Jonsi, not only made an appearance on last
- [Reykjavík Shorts&Docs Festival](https://gayiceland.is/2013/reykjavik-shortsdocs-festival/) - [vc_video link="http://vimeo.com/65055441" size="735x370" full_width="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr] [dropcap4]R[/dropcap4]eykjavík Shorts&Docs Festival is running from 9-16th of May at Bíó Paradís, Kex Hostel and Slipp Bíó (Reykjavík Marina). The festival is now held for the 11th time and this year roughly 90 shorts and documentaries will be screened at the
- [Iceland ranks #6 in Spartacus](https://gayiceland.is/2013/iceland-ranks-6-in-spartacus/) - [vc_single_image image="ype-of-2723" image_size="full" frame="noframe" full_width="no" lightbox="yes" link_target="_self" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] The index includes all 138 destinations Spartacus covers [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="yes" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]I[/dropcap4]celand is among the top destinations for gay tourists according to international gay travel guide Spartacus. The index includes all 138
- [Jóhanna, Iceland's openly gay PM, visits China with her partner Jónína](https://gayiceland.is/2013/johanna-icelands-openly-gay-pm-visits-china/) - [vc_single_image image="2769" image_size="full" frame="noframe" full_width="no" lightbox="yes" link_target="_self" caption="Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, Iceland's PM. Photo/Magnus Fröderberg" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “It will get me watching the evening news, I want to see how they introduce her.” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="yes" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]G[/dropcap4]ay activists in China are very excited about the
- [Milla: An Univited Guest](https://gayiceland.is/2013/milla-an-univited-guest/) - [vc_single_image image="2338" image_size="full" frame="noframe" full_width="no" lightbox="yes" link_target="_self" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] “This is my first published novel that happens in a certain time and place” [/vc_column_text] [vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="yes" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] [hr][one_half] [dropcap4]K[/dropcap4]ristín Ómarsdóttir has been praised for a vast imagination and beautiful style in her novels, short stories,
- [Jonsi | 5 things you didn´t know](https://gayiceland.is/2012/jonsi-5-things-you-didn´t-know/) - Jonsi (Jón Jósep) and Gréta Salome will represent Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 in Baku, Azerbaijan, in May, with the song Remember me (i. Mundu eftir mér). Globally Jonsi is probably best known for participating in the contest in Turkey in 2004 with the song Heaven, earning him the 19th spot. In Iceland
- [The procedure was necessary](https://gayiceland.is/2012/the-procedure-was-necessary/) - "Gender correction isn't a choice, but a necessity,"says Hrafnhildur, an Icelandic trans-girl who after 26 years finally broke the news to her family and friends that she was indeed a girl but not a boy. Up untill that time she had tried to succumb her true feelings by living as the boy Halldór Hrafn. A
- [The Rain before the Rainbow](https://gayiceland.is/2012/the-rain-before-the-rainbow/) - We here at GayIceland came across a great article about the Reykjavík Gay Pride Parade written by reporter and column-writer Erla Hlynsdóttir, published in newspaper Fréttablaðið and Visir.is yesterday under the caption "The Rain before the Rainbow". We really think it says it all about the Pride Parade in Iceland this year so we decided to translate the text, share it
- [Barbara and Truno unite](https://gayiceland.is/2012/barbara-and-truno-unite/) - Club Barbara and Queer Cafe Truno have united into a single gay bar/club. Barbara has occupied the second and third floor on Laugarvegur 22,Reykjavik, whilst Cafe Truno has been run as a café during the day and until midnight on the ground floor, where the new joint venue will be situated from now on. The
- [LGBT festival around the corner ](https://gayiceland.is/2012/lgbt-festival-around-the-corner/) - Rainbow Reykjavík Festival is the first international LGBT winter festival in Reykjavík in Icelandʹs capital city, taking place from from 16-19th February. GayIceland met up with organisers, the ever lovely Birna Hrönn Glimmer Björnsdóttir and Eva María Glimmer Þórarinsdóttir-Lange to find out why Rainbow Reykjavík Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the year.

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- [About](https://gayiceland.is/about/) - The beautiful and ever-changing scenery, rich culture and wild nightlife are among the many things attracting gay tourists from around the world to Iceland, the exotic island just south of the Arctic Circle and famous for Eyjafjallajökull's volcanic eruption in 2010. Iceland also boasts of being one of world's advanced countries when it comes to gay rights,
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- [Lay Low](https://gayiceland.is/videos/lay-low/) - [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="PLF5F64C1F2201187B"]
- [Links](https://gayiceland.is/links/) - [wp-blogroll]
- [Páll Óskar](https://gayiceland.is/videos/pall-oskar-videos/) - [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="PL2EB7063A2CE012EA"]
- [Friðrik Ómar](https://gayiceland.is/videos/fridrik-omar-videos/) - [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="E2624C5152277AB5"]
- [Rvik Pride](https://gayiceland.is/videos/rvik-pride-videos/) - [tubepress mode="playlist" playlistValue="PLB42D7C6A12EFBF20"]
- [Videos](https://gayiceland.is/videos/) - [tubepress]
- [My Bookings](https://gayiceland.is/my-bookings/) - CONTENTS
- [Sample Page](https://gayiceland.is/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger

## DV Team

- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/vso-radgjof/) - VSÓ Ráðgjöf er alhliða ráðgjafar- og verkfræðifyrirtæki sem leggur áherslu á trausta og faglega þjónustu sem tryggir viðskiptavinum hagkvæmustu lausnir hverju sinni, skilar raunverulegum árangri og stuðlar að samkeppnisforskoti. Á skrifstofum VSÓ í Reykjavík og í Noregi starfar yfir 80 manna samhentur hópur verkfræðinga og annarra tæknimenntaðra starfsmanna.
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/ms-iceland-dairies/) - Our Story Once upon a time, 1,100 years ago in fact, Nordic settlers began arriving in Iceland. They brought with them the skills and knowledge for producing skyr. As time passed, the know-how and recipe for this nutritious food slowly faded out elsewhere in the Nordic region. Luckily, the Icelandic skyr-making tradition continued. For centuries,
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/macland/) - From starting out as a proper startup with only a good idea and the need to change things, to becoming an established company with 6 employees. Starting from scratch and expanding organically has allowed us to love our expansion and take our customers on the ride with us. Macland is located at Laugavegur 23 (101,
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/blush/) - Blush was founded in 2011 when it started selling high quality sex products. The goal from the beginning was to change the market and take the discussion about sex products to a higher level. Today Blush provides professional services in a pleasant environment that fulfills different needs, both for individuals and couples. Blush respects diversity
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/dohop/) - "Dohop allows people to find the cheapest flights available with just one click. Founded in Reykjavik in 2004, it is the only Icelandic company of its kind and quickly became the go-to tool for finding cheap flights among the locals. Dohop finds the best deals among hundreds of different airlines and online travel agencies, to
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/landsbankinn/) - Landsbankinn is a leading Icelandic financial institution. It offers a full range of financial services and is the market leader in the Icelandic financial service sector with the largest branch network. The present bank was established on 7 October 2008 but the history of its predecessor dates back to 1886. The bank is owned by
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/blue-lagoon/) - Named by National Geographic as one of the 25 Wonders of the World, the Blue Lagoon is a shimmering expanse of warmth, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Its unique Blue Lagoon Water comes from 2.000 meters within the earth where seawater and freshwater converge in a tectonic realm of porous lava and searing heat. Propelled by extreme
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/nasdaq/) - Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a global technology company serving the capital markets and other industries. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software and services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence. With over 4,300 employees in 39 offices around the world, at Nasdaq we all contribute to the success of
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/omnom-chocolate/) - Omnom Chocolate is an Icelandic craft chocolate company based in Reykjavík. We produce handcrafted chocolate from organic cacao beans sourced ethically and sustainably. We've developed direct relationships to create premium chocolate with fine flavor cacao beans. Our creative flavors are carefully crafted by meticulous chocolate makers. The cacao beans are roasted, winnowed, ground, and refined
- [](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/a-oskarsson/) - Á. Óskarsson offers a variety of products and services to sports centers, swimming pools, schools, kindergartens, and the general public. The company specializes in sport-related products, activity-focused games, and a wide range of solutions for sports facilities. Á. Óskarsson has been involved in numerous big projects related to building sports facilities and has made it
- [Roald Eyvindsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/roald-eyvindsson/) - Roald Eyvindsson is a literary scholar, journalist and the editor-in-chief of Gayiceland.is. Basically the guy who has final, undisputed say over everything and every part of the publication and loves it. Not in any way related to Roald Dahl but shares the same passion for writing and is currently working on his first best seller.
- [Heimir Már Pétursson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/heimir-mar-petursson/) - Co-founder and first Executive Director of Reykjavik Gay Pride.
- [Hólmfríður Helga Sigurðardóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/holmfridur-helga-sigurdardottir/) - Ignoring her given name, Hólmfríður responds to two nicknames, Fríða or Hófí, depending on which stage of puberty one got to know her. She is a freelance journalist who recently returned to Iceland after a few years of living in Barcelona. She loves all things Mediterranean and has an unfulfilled lust for languages. In fact,
- [Tryggvi Gunnarsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/tryggvi-gunnarsson/) - Tryggvi Gunnarsson is a theater writer/director based in Reykjavík. He has accumulated many rewards during his career, most of which were accidental and have nothing to do with theatre, whatsoever. He usually doesn't know what he is doing, which makes him an ideal journalist, forever asking all the hard questions, as well as being a
- [Stella Júlía Ágústsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/stella-julia-agustsdottir/) - Stella Júlía is a writer working on publishing her first novella this fall living in Reykjavík with her two teenage children. She has lived in several countries and worked abroad. In her spare time she loves to read and travel and visit with her grandmother.
- [Sigursteinn Másson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/sigursteinn-masson/) - Sigursteinn Másson represents IFAW in Iceland, is a journalist, documentarian and former Chairman of The Icelandic Mental Health Alliance and a former Vice Chairman of The National Queer Organization of Iceland (i. Samtökin '78).
- [Sigurður Júlíus Guðmundsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/sigurdur-julius-gudmundsson/) - Known by most people as Siggi or Sjúlli, depending on where you would meet him, Siggi has been involved in media and publications for over 10 years, ranging from doing a school paper to podcasts to television productions. A self proclaimed nerd and a jack of all traits, Siggi currently works in IT services while
- [Óli Hjörtur Ólafsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/oli-hjortur-olafsson/) - Bar manager Óli Hjörtur Ólafsson lives downtown Reykjavík and wouldn't trade it for any suburb. Former owner of gay bar Q Bar ( R.I.P.), a former journalist for Fréttablaðið and currently movie fanatic. Wants to go to Japan one day. Named Reykjavík Nightlife Legend by Grapevine.
- [Olav Veigar Davíðsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/olav-veigar-davidsson/) - Olav Veigar Davíðsson is a writer, translator and a journalist living in Lund, Sweden. He is born and raised in the legendary Ölfus area, south Iceland. Olav is a master drummer and has had several successful haircuts to prove it. He holds a MA degree in European Union Studies and truly believes Iceland will soon
- [Nína Rúna Kvaran](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/nina-runa-kvaran/) - Nína is a married mother of three with a Master's degree in English, specializing in analyzing horror fiction from a feminist point of view. She studied classical opera singing for 6 years. Nína also takes great pride in her home-made, hand-knitted vampire children. Due to her dedication to horror fiction and films, her children have
- [Margrét Nilsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/margret-nilsdottir/) - Margrét Nilsdóttir is a struggling artist, pet expert and a part-time mother. She is very opinionated and an insufferable know-it-all. After confronting her own sexual identity, she has been actively expressing her opinion on evrything that has to do with sexual freedom. Margrét was raised on a farm so she doesn’t call everything her grandmother,
- [Kristín Eva Þórhallsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/kristin-eva-thorhallsdottir/) - Kristín Eva is a radio host/producer and a journalist living in L.A. with a superpower to manufacture ideas. Knowledge on basically everything excites her and she agrees with Kafka when he said: "They say ignorance is a bliss …. they’re wrong." Her imagination and half refusal to grow up have let her to produce and
- [Jóhanna Ýr Jónsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/johanna-yr-jonsdottir/) - Jóhanna Ýr Jónsdóttir is an aspiring novelist (just wait!), historian, wannabe carpenter, and over-all nerdy person with experiences ranging from being a curator at a Folk Museum to making a documentary about how you feel when an eruption starts in your backyard. Interests range from cooking, crochet, politics and travels, to exploring the human spirit.
- [Íris Ellenberger](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/iris-ellenberger/) - Íris Ellenberger is a historian and a writer with a deep interest in board games, science fiction and all things feminist and queer. When not at her part-time job at the Icelandic heathen association she's researching for a forthcoming book, writing articles about history and queer issues or making queer feminist stop motion videos.
- [Ingibjorg Rosa](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/ingibjorg-rosa/) - Ingibjörg Rósa is a freelance journalist and an Anglophile based in London. There, she spends her days sipping tea and trying to finish her first novel. She‘s been doing that for 2 years, mind you. She grew up on a farm in South Iceland, watching Eyjafjallajökull out of her living room window, and Dyrhólaey through
- [Inga Jessen](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/inga-jessen/) - Born and raised in Reykjavik, editor of FreeCityTravel and loves everything that starts with "travelling."
- [Bjartmar Þórðarson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/bjartmar-thordarson/) - Bjartmar Thordarson is an actor/director/writer. When not serving that calling he obsessively dabbles in interior design and property redevelopment. An avid horror fiction fan, he lives with his partner Snorri in the heart of Reykjavik, where they run the apartment hotel Rey Apartments. Secretly, Bjartmar fantasizes about having a cat but he's allergic.
- [Guðrún Helga Sigurðardóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/gudrun-helga-sigurdardottir/) - Guðrún Helga is an experienced journalist and driver guide in Reykjavik. She speaks Icelandic, Swedish, English and Finnish and loves challenges of all kinds. She doesn‘t like cooking but enjoys writing. That‘s why she has recently published the book Traditional Icelandic Food A Gastronomic Guide to Iceland. Gudrun Helga doesn‘t need much to be happy,
- [Helgi Ómarsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/helgi-omarsson/) - Helgi Ómarsson is a photographer and a blogger based in Copenhagen. He's raised in the small fishing village Seyðisfjörður. He always seeking more information and knowledge, mostly about the mysteries of life and love.
- [Angel Buns O'hara](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/angel-buns-ohara/) - Angel Buns O'hara was born and raised in Uganda, Africa. She Went to Trinity College Nabbingo. And has lived in Glasgow, Scotland and London, England. She now lives in Reykjavík where she works a column writer amongst other things.
- [Friðrika Benónýsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/fridrika-benonysdottir/) - Friðrika Benónýsdóttir has been writing about literature and culture in Icelandic media for decades. She is one of the literature critics for the hugely popular TV show Kiljan on national television and has only just resigned from her job as cultural editor of Icelands biggest newspaper, Fréttablaðið. Friðrika is also a published writer of three
- [Apríl Smáradóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/april-smaradottir/)
- [Auður Magndís Auðardóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/audur-magndis-audardottir/) - Auður is a sociologist with no taste for science-fiction or other nonsense. She is an active member of the feminist and queer movement in Iceland. She deals with equality issues for the City of Reykjavik roughly 40 hrs per week but really enjoys playing hide and seek with her two kids on weekends.
- [Sæþór Benjamín Randalsson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/saethor-benjamin-randalsson/) - Sæþór Benjamín Randalsson (Aka Ben Chompers) lives in Reykjavik with his husband, dog and two rabbits. After working at a video game studio, a film studio, and on a kid's TV show here in Iceland he decided to quit all that and start a small app development studio with his husband focusing on fun 3D
- [Brynhildur Heiðar- og Ómarsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/brynhildur-heidar-og-omarsdottir/)
- [Björn Birgir Ingimundarson](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/bjorn-birgir-ingimundarson/) - Björn Birgir Ingimundarson is an avid reader and keen on all things queer in film and on TV. He loves to host dinner parties and getting to know new people. Enjoys travelling around the world, hiking and taking jeep trips around Iceland with family and friends. Björn currently lives in Reykjavík after having spent years
- [Elín Esther Magnúsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/elin-esther-magnusdottir/) - Elín is an outdoor instructor with a passion for travelling. She has almost 20 years experience in advertising and media, likes cats and cars and is not at all known for keeping her opinions to herself.
- [Freyr Bjarnason](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/freyr-bjarnason/) - Freyr Bjarnason is an experienced journalist, born and raised in the fishing- and football town, Akranes. He is passionate about music, sports and movies and wrote numerous articles about music during his 14 years time with Fréttablaðið, newspaper. He also loves playing cards with his three brothers and meets with them regularly, where they tell
- [Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/halla-thorlaug-oskarsdottir/) - Halla Þórlaug Óskarsdóttir has worked as a journalist and a column writer for Fréttablaðið, Iceland's biggest newspaper. She's now a freelancer, as a visual artist / illustrator / writer with a special interest in drama and children's culture.
- [Halla Himintungl](https://gayiceland.is/dvteam/halla-himintungl/) - Nature child Halla (Miss Moon) loves outdoor activities such as rock climbing, biking and hiking. She sometimes works as a private tour guide taking people on hiking journeys out in the wilderness of Iceland and spices it up with spiritual events, yoga, meditation practice and lots of humor.

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://gayiceland.is/category/uncategorized/)
- [LGBT Rights](https://gayiceland.is/category/lbgt-rights/)
- [See & Do](https://gayiceland.is/category/see-and-do/)
- [Nightlife](https://gayiceland.is/category/entertainment/nightlife/)
- [Eat & Drink](https://gayiceland.is/category/eat-and-drink/)
- [Entertainment](https://gayiceland.is/category/entertainment/)
- [Featured](https://gayiceland.is/category/featured/)
- [Shopping and Style](https://gayiceland.is/category/see-and-do/shopping-and-style/)
- [Recipes](https://gayiceland.is/category/eat-and-drink/recipes/)
- [Editor's Picks](https://gayiceland.is/category/editors-picks/)
- [Opinion](https://gayiceland.is/category/opinion/)

## Tags

- [Music](https://gayiceland.is/tag/music/)
- [Videos](https://gayiceland.is/tag/videos/)
- [IGLA 2012](https://gayiceland.is/tag/igla-2012/)
- [Rvik Pride Parade](https://gayiceland.is/tag/rvik-pride-parade/)
- [World Outgames](https://gayiceland.is/tag/world-outgames/)
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- [Sigur Rós](https://gayiceland.is/tag/sigur-ros/)
- [Cafés](https://gayiceland.is/tag/cafes/)
- [Fashion](https://gayiceland.is/tag/fashion/)
- [Rvik Queer Choir](https://gayiceland.is/tag/rvik-queer-choir-2/)
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- [Food & Drinks](https://gayiceland.is/tag/food-drinks/)
- [Movies](https://gayiceland.is/tag/movies/)
- [Music videos](https://gayiceland.is/tag/music-videos/)
- [Design](https://gayiceland.is/tag/design/)
- [HIV](https://gayiceland.is/tag/hiv/)
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- [recipies](https://gayiceland.is/tag/recipies/)
- [Health](https://gayiceland.is/tag/health/)
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- [2015](https://gayiceland.is/tag/2015/)
- [country dance](https://gayiceland.is/tag/country-dance/)
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- [Pride](https://gayiceland.is/tag/pride-2/)
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- [Drag](https://gayiceland.is/tag/drag/)
- [Bears](https://gayiceland.is/tag/bears/)
- [Rvik Pride](https://gayiceland.is/tag/rvik-pride/)
- [Rainbow Rvik](https://gayiceland.is/tag/rainbow-rvik/)
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- [adam all](https://gayiceland.is/tag/adam-all/)
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- [Malta](https://gayiceland.is/tag/malta/)
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- [National queer organization](https://gayiceland.is/tag/national-queer-organization/)
- [Polish](https://gayiceland.is/tag/polish/)
- [Immigrant](https://gayiceland.is/tag/immigrant/)
- [drag-sugur](https://gayiceland.is/tag/drag-sugur/)
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- [Gaukurinn](https://gayiceland.is/tag/gaukurinn/)
- [dating](https://gayiceland.is/tag/dating/)
- [Cruising](https://gayiceland.is/tag/cruising/)
- [Comedy](https://gayiceland.is/tag/comedy/)
- [sister sister](https://gayiceland.is/tag/sister-sister/)
- [podcast](https://gayiceland.is/tag/podcast/)
- [lesbian](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lesbian/)
- [queer women](https://gayiceland.is/tag/queer-women/)
- [Yaz Duncan](https://gayiceland.is/tag/yaz-duncan/)
- [Jonathan Duffy](https://gayiceland.is/tag/jonathan-duffy/)
- [Hinsegin kórinn](https://gayiceland.is/tag/hinsegin-korinn/)
- [Arts](https://gayiceland.is/tag/arts/)
- [Sing](https://gayiceland.is/tag/sing/)
- [Gay man](https://gayiceland.is/tag/gay-man/)
- [Reykjavík Queer Choir](https://gayiceland.is/tag/reykjavik-queer-choir/)
- [Coming out](https://gayiceland.is/tag/coming-out/)
- [Marriage](https://gayiceland.is/tag/marriage/)
- [Family](https://gayiceland.is/tag/family/)
- [entertainment](https://gayiceland.is/tag/entertainment/)
- [Kiki queer bar](https://gayiceland.is/tag/kiki-queer-bar/)
- [Kiki](https://gayiceland.is/tag/kiki/)
- [bar](https://gayiceland.is/tag/bar/)
- [transg](https://gayiceland.is/tag/transg/)
- [trans rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/trans-rights/)
- [politics](https://gayiceland.is/tag/politics/)
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- [human rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/human-rights/)
- [Alþingi](https://gayiceland.is/tag/althingi/)
- [bill](https://gayiceland.is/tag/bill/)
- [Iceland](https://gayiceland.is/tag/iceland/)
- [The national queer organization](https://gayiceland.is/tag/the-national-queer-organization/)
- [Stonewall](https://gayiceland.is/tag/stonewall/)
- [Celebration](https://gayiceland.is/tag/celebration/)
- [Queer rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/queer-rights/)
- [wedding](https://gayiceland.is/tag/wedding/)
- [LGBT](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbt/)
- [Travel](https://gayiceland.is/tag/travel/)
- [Safe space](https://gayiceland.is/tag/safe-space/)
- [Curious](https://gayiceland.is/tag/curious/)
- [dance club](https://gayiceland.is/tag/dance-club/)
- [club](https://gayiceland.is/tag/club/)
- [AIDS](https://gayiceland.is/tag/aids/)
- [Film](https://gayiceland.is/tag/film/)
- [gay men](https://gayiceland.is/tag/gay-men/)
- [see and do](https://gayiceland.is/tag/see-and-do/)
- [social event](https://gayiceland.is/tag/social-event/)
- [bi](https://gayiceland.is/tag/bi/)
- [pan](https://gayiceland.is/tag/pan/)
- [polyamorous](https://gayiceland.is/tag/polyamorous/)
- [night life](https://gayiceland.is/tag/night-life/)
- [standup](https://gayiceland.is/tag/standup/)
- [Reykjavík Pride](https://gayiceland.is/tag/reykjavik-pride/)
- [pinkwashing](https://gayiceland.is/tag/pinkwashing/)
- [bears on ice](https://gayiceland.is/tag/bears-on-ice/)
- [Magazine](https://gayiceland.is/tag/magazine/)
- [President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson](https://gayiceland.is/tag/president-gudni-th-johannesson/)
- [Mike Pence](https://gayiceland.is/tag/mike-pence/)
- [USA](https://gayiceland.is/tag/usa/)
- [Sexual Violence](https://gayiceland.is/tag/sexual-violence/)
- [news](https://gayiceland.is/tag/news/)
- [Styrmir](https://gayiceland.is/tag/styrmir/)
- [Sherry Vine](https://gayiceland.is/tag/sherry-vine/)
- [parenting](https://gayiceland.is/tag/parenting/)
- [Hatari](https://gayiceland.is/tag/hatari/)
- [LGBT+ rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbt-rights-2/)
- [countryside](https://gayiceland.is/tag/countryside/)
- [Rainbow Reykjavík](https://gayiceland.is/tag/rainbow-reykjavik/)
- [violence](https://gayiceland.is/tag/violence/)
- [Portugal](https://gayiceland.is/tag/portugal/)
- [fado](https://gayiceland.is/tag/fado/)
- [history](https://gayiceland.is/tag/history/)
- [corona-virus](https://gayiceland.is/tag/corona-virus/)
- [Covid-19](https://gayiceland.is/tag/covid-19/)
- [butch](https://gayiceland.is/tag/butch/)
- [culture](https://gayiceland.is/tag/culture/)
- [LGBTQI](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbtqi/)
- [metoo](https://gayiceland.is/tag/metoo/)
- [LGBTQI+ rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbtqi-rights/)
- [Reykjavík Bear](https://gayiceland.is/tag/reykjavik-bear/)
- [LGBTQAI+rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbtqairights/)
- [GayIceland](https://gayiceland.is/tag/gayiceland/)
- [presidential candidates](https://gayiceland.is/tag/presidential-candidates/)
- [LGBTQIA](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbtqia/)
- [musical](https://gayiceland.is/tag/musical/)
- [elska](https://gayiceland.is/tag/elska/)
- [LGBTQIA+rights](https://gayiceland.is/tag/lgbtqiarights/)
- [Hinsegin dagar](https://gayiceland.is/tag/hinsegin-dagar/)

## Categories

- [Contributors](https://gayiceland.is/dvteamtaxonomy/contributors/)
- [Sponsors](https://gayiceland.is/dvteamtaxonomy/sponsors/)