DAY-7- United in Action! How Local Communities Drive LGBTQIA+ Inclusion

RainbowHouse Brussels invites the public, local authorities, and community leaders to join the landmark conference “United in Action! How Local Communities Drive LGBTQIA+ Inclusion” during Brussels Pride 2025. This inaugural event will bring together the 19 municipalities and the Brussels-Capital Region to exchange ideas and showcase impactful initiatives at the local, regional, and international levels.

A Platform for Collaboration and Progress

Set against the backdrop of Brussels Pride-a festival recognized as intangible cultural heritage and celebrated for its commitment to unity, diversity, and rights protection-the conference aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. The event underscores the vital role that local communities play in advancing LGBTQIA+ inclusion, especially as rights and freedoms face mounting challenges in Belgium, Europe, and beyond.

Conference Program: Three Key Themes

The conference will be structured around three major themes:

• Health & Well-being:
  How can municipalities better care for LGBTQIA+ residents? Four local organizations-Maison Arc-en-Ciel de la Santé, Epicentre, Brussels Gay Sport, and RainbowAmbassador-will present their daily work and answer audience questions, highlighting practical approaches to community health and support.
• Let’s Report:
  How should communities respond to LGBTQIA+phobic violence in public spaces? Equal.brussels will present an innovative project enabling LGBTQIA+ individuals to report incidents through community organizations. The session will feature a discussion with representatives from RainbowHouse Brussels, safe.brussels, and the EVA police unit, focusing on strategies for safer public spaces.
• Road 2026:
  What are the international best practices, and how can Brussels prepare for the 30th anniversary of Brussels Pride in 2026? The conference will welcome a representative from an international Pride organization to share their diversity and anti-discrimination strategies, setting the stage for future local celebrations and collaborations.

Practical Information

• Date: During Brussels Pride 2025 (main events from May 7–17, with the Pride March on May 17)
• Location: RainbowHouse Brussels and associated venues
• Registration: Mandatory via brusselspride@rainbowhouse.be

A Call for Unity and Action

Brussels Pride 2025, under the theme “Unite, time to protect our rights,” is both a celebration and a political statement, emphasizing the importance of defending LGBTQIA+ rights, health, identity, and diversity. The “United in Action!” conference reflects this spirit, providing a unique opportunity for local actors to share experiences, address challenges, and build a more inclusive society for all.

By connecting local, regional, and international perspectives, RainbowHouse Brussels aims to ensure that every voice is heard and that the fight for equality continues to move forward-united in action.