In May 2022, Léargas hosted an international event in Dublin called Queerasmus. This Erasmus+ Training and Cooperation Activity for youth workers and those working with LGBTQ+ young people. Attendees exchanged ideas, shared best practices and collaborated on how to best support LGBTQ+ young people through Erasmus+.
Twenty-seven participants from 13 countries attended Queerasmus representing Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, Sweden, Croatia, Albania, France, Sweden, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland.
There was a mix of youth workers, youth leaders, and young representatives (18+) from LGBTQ+ youth groups and youth organisations. It was a busy and inspiring couple of days!
TCAs (Transnational Cooperation Activities) are the first stepping stone into the world of European programmes. For many attendees, this is the first time they get to see what's happening in similar organisations at a European level. It's a collaborative sharing space and an excellent way to learn more about Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps.
Inclusion and Diversity is one of the four key Erasmus+ priorities. The goal of Queerasmus was to bring people together to learn from one another and get inspired by each other's activities in supporting LGBTQ+ youth throughout Europe. The meeting operated as a place to find new reliable Erasmus+ project partners and build a safe and solid foundation for future cooperation within the Erasmus+ programme. Participants were given a chance to develop creative ideas for international collaboration and to become familiar with Erasmus+ and the funding possibilities available.
Barry McSkeane, National Network Coordinator at BeLonG To Youth Services, presented his tips for best practice LGBTQ+ focused Erasmus+ projects. These included ways to emphasise common ground, shared values and impact.
The enthusiasm and hope at this event was palpable, and all attendees agreed to take the next steps for collaboration and to start their Erasmus+ journey together. Some project ideas included Breaking Binary and Our Queerstory, a youth exchange creating a platform for sharing queer history. Participants left full of new ideas and motivation, with connections with new project partners and a feeling of empowerment.
If you are interested in supporting LGBTQ+ Youth through European programmes, please contact Jane Carter at Léargas today.
If you are supporting a LGBTQ+ young person and need advice or resources visit Belong To LGBT Youth Services.