In late September, APTN Human Rights and Advocacy Manager, Nhuun Yodmuang had the exceptional opportunity to attend JUNTES, an week-long gathering of feminist and trans advocates and artists in Sao Paolo to engage in cross-movement strategy dialogue to tackle the harms of the global anti-gender movement.
The main goal of the gathering was to examine current practices and narratives used by advocacy groups and organizations to further strengthen solidarity with feminist and trans movements, whilst using the medium of art as a transformative tool to explore new responses and humanize debates to pressing societal issues.
On September 27th, Nhuun participated in a panel discussion titled ‘Experiencing the Opposition: Regional Perspectives’ as a speaker, alongside other regional actors. During the discussion, Nhuun shared insights on the prevalence of anti-trans opposition across Asia and global advocacy spaces and highlighted the decolonial, intersectional, and feminist narrative and strategies to address it. She also delved into APTN’s initiative to foster global and regional intersectional and feminist trans movements aimed at combating opposition.
Due to the heaviness of the topics discussed, there was a noted focus on healing sessions to remind the participants of the importance of mental health and allowing themselves the space and bodies to breathe to circumvent the wave of increased hostility and demonization brought on by anti-gender movements. Participants engaged in dancing on the roof, live drums that signified rest, and breathing practices to give their minds and bodies space to breathe.
At night, participants were also able to let their hair down at the Risco queer arts festival, which featured amazing artists that focused on the role of art when it comes to changing narratives and enabling dialogues that open hearts and minds.The program comprises global highlights, such as the design and journalism exhibition SOY, which is curated by Argentine author Liliana Viola. It also showcases an original piece by playwright Raphael Khouri, who has Jordanian-German roots. Additionally, it spotlights both emerging and well-established figures in the Brazilian scene, including Renata Carvalho, Assucena, Ayô Tupinambá, and many others. The events also encompass a diverse array of DJs from different generations and musical styles, featuring Gisa Gabriel, DJ Transvegana, and Festa Alicate, along with performances by Filipe Catto, Ali Prando, Alma Negrot, and more.
News
