Ankara Hosts anti-Homophobia Meeting

The Kaos Gay and Lesbian Cultural Research and Solidarity Association (Kaos GL) "International Gathering Against Homophobia" starts in the Turkish capital of Ankara on May 17 and will continue over five days until May 21.

Various professionals will hold seminars during the five day event that will host workshops and film shows to raise awareness against homophobia in all walks of life.

"We face homophobic behaviour and attitudes in all aspects of life" a KAOS GL statement on the event said. "We are subject to discrimination because of our sexual inclinations. Because we cannot stand up against homophobia, we allow our concerns and frustrations to grow inside and direct these against ourselves or like us. Whereas this is the last thing we need."

The Ankara gathering will host a number of important international and Turkish guests including various experts on the issue. Seminars and talks are to concentrate on homophobia from psychiatry to media, arts to literature. (EZO/TK/II/YE)