Since 2015, and the inception of LGBTI+ Gozo, it is said that the organisation have met individuals both from Malta and Gozo, with different viewpoints on equal marriage and adoption amongst other. The organisation that runs solely on voluntary work adds that whilst Gozo is effected by legislative progress, and is working to be walking on par with its sister island, education on the subject is still needed. This was also outlined by the recent research conducted by a Gozitan Youth Work Student Graziella Scerri. In fact LGBTI+ Gozo are aware of this and held an educational campaign called ‘’better together’’ to continue presenting informative workshops not only with regards to sexual orientation and gender identity but also regarding sexuality in general. Due to these workshops the organization has seen a shift to an open dialogue with various stakeholders, however acknowledges that more work needs to be done.
Thanks to the vast accessibility of various medium to voice our opinion, we can create various discussions that include different views. Thanks to these various views and opinions we can also create a safe environment for a civil discourse. LGBTI+ Gozo said that they are very glad to see research being conducted in the small island especially with regards to the queer community. The organization also said that it is aiming that in the upcoming months it will commission a third-party independent research on the LGBTI+ lifestyle and day to day individual living in Gozo. This should give a clear picture of all perspectives within the Gozitan community.
Social events both in Gozo and as well in Malta in order to bridge the two communities together are being held on a monthly basis. Furthermore, a monthly youth LGBTI+ drop in is being held to offer a safe space to youth in Gozo to discuss and meet each other, with the organisation building up resources to have this frequent – you can join and aid out on lgbtigozo.com/members
Eman Borg
President