Hyde 2021 Edition 3 - LGBTQIA+ by Victoria University Student Union

2 0 2 1 3 I S S U E

HYDE lgbtqia+ EDITION

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This is a publication of Victoria University Student Union inc.

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Victoria University Student Union takes student welfare incredibly seriously. Please note there is a TRIGGER

hyde@vustudentunion.com

WARNING for content on page 40 for this edition, please make sure you read it before continuing and access the resources if needed.

We at Hyde magazine would also like

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to state that many of these views may not reflect the views of the editors, but we respect every contributor and thank them for their contributions and for expressing themselves in a way that makes them feel safe and comfortable.

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WELCOME FROM VUSU Hi Hyde Readers! Welcome to the 3rd edition of 2021 the LGBTQIA+ edition! We hope you enjoy this amazing edition put together by hardworking members of our team.

We have some super exciting queer events planned for the rest of this year, including a June Pride Month, with activities and goodies. We'll also be running Queernival again in August, so keep your eyes peeled!

VUSU is about representing all student regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, or various backgrounds. The LGBTQIA+ (Queer) community is a massive part of VUSU and we appreciate all the support they provide us. Over the last few years we have had some amazing Queer Officers, who have started initiatives such as Queernival, an event that we still run to this day. We've also had other queeridentifying officer bearers who have done remarkable work in their various different positions, and we'd like to thank all them.

Our VP Welfare Officer, Kate and our General Secretary, Oliver; attended the Midsumma Pride March as well this year, and have shared some of their photos across this edition. Finally if you have any questions about VUSU, what events and activities we do, or need assitance please don't hesitate to contact us at vusu.queries@gmail.com. As your student representatives we are here to help, as much as we can. Happy Reading, - The 2021 VUSU team

Acknowledgement of Country Victoria

University

Student

Union

and

Hyde

Student

Magazine acknowledges the Ancestors, Elders and families of

the

Boonwurrung,

Woiwurrung

(Wurundjeri)

and

Wathaurung (Wadawurrung) on our Melbourne campuses and the Gadigal and Guring-gai people of the Eaora Nation on our Sydney campus. These groups are the custodians of the University land and have been for many centuries. As we share our own knowledge practices within the University, may we pay respect to the deep knowledge embedded within the Aboriginal community and ownership of Country. We acknowledge that the land on which our campuses stand is the place of age old ceremonies and celebration, initiation and renewal. Such land was stolen and soverignty was never seeded. The Kulin and Eora people's living culture had, and has, a unique role in the life of these regions. Victoria

University

supports

the

aim

Reconciliation

Australia to build better relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for the benefit of all Australians. It is important that staff, students, and visitors understand and respect the significance of recognising the traditional owners of University land, and that this land was stolen, and sovereignty was never seeded.

33 37

what's inside

35 7

VC Welcome - ADAM SHOEMAKER

The Gender Whisperers Podcasts - SAM ELKIN

VUSU President Welcome - HANNAH NADIN

Best Day Worst Day - SAM ELKIN

VUSU Queer Officer Welcome - AMY WILCOX-DAVIES

Transdemic: Pandemic Experiences - SAM ELKIN

LGBTQIA+ Flags

Pride Rooms

Queer Talk - HANNAH NADIN

Dos and Don'ts of Allyship - JENNIFER RUSSO

Iconic Queer Songs

Artists' Corner

VU's All Gender Facilities

The (Almost) A - z of Queer & Gender Identity

Jess Vossetig - INSTAGRAM ILLUSTRATOR

Caitlin Blunnie - INSTAGRAM ARTIST

Kaff-eine - MELBOURNE ARTIST

Kate Just - MELBOURNE ARTIST

Changing your Name at VU

Pronouns 101 -- KATE BENESOVSKY

Hyde Book Corner

64 68 58 47

52 51

Az Franco - INSTAGRAM ARTIST

Actions Speak Louder Than Words - NADIAH BETHANNI

Gabriella Grimes - INSTAGRAM ARTIST

As I Sit Here - OLIVER KAISER

Everyone Needs A Good Blog

Behind the Image

Do you Want to Know - NADIAH BETHANNI

I Have Always Known - ANONYMOUS

Untitled - HANNAH NADIN

VU Queer Collective - MICKEY DEPPLER

Opening Up Into Queerness - KATE BENESOVSKY

Lockdown Self-Love -FREYJA

Pride, Respect, Equality - RESPECT VICTORIA

Blast From The Past - MUGHEES RAZA

Dear OP of Love Letter No. ########## - F.H

Be A Better Human

Activities

Contributors

BTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day - Q NEWS

VICE-CHANCELLOR WELCOME TAKING PART AND PRIDE As a university community, we take part and we take pride in our institution. We stand united as a place of respect, equality and diversity. We all agree on the importance of providing a welcoming and inclusive environment so that all students and colleagues not only thrive but feel supported and safe. On a personal note, I am a very proud member of our extensive VU Pride and Ally Network, which comprises staff colleagues who already identify as members of—or as allies with—the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and gender-diverse communities. Free training is provided for all staff colleagues who wish to be part of the network. We also have a range of resources and information to support the LGBTIQA+ and gender-diverse community, including Pride rooms and community spaces located across our campuses. Our aim is to get even better as a university community to make our environment even more inclusive. In that connection, I have recently been speaking to members of the LGBTIQA+ community at VU and they have shared with me three very important points: (1) We can all be better informed. For example, we can educate ourselves on the most sensitive and appropriate recognition of sexual orientation and diverse gender identities; (2) We need to hear and to really listen with a high degree of empathy—to what the LGBTIQA+ community thinks, feels and needs; (3) We need to stand up and be counted— especially in those contexts and environments in which people might be making anti-

LGBTQIA+ comments or when we witness any form of bullying. When I talk about taking part and taking pride, that is exactly what I mean. Happily, some of the events which had to be postponed last year are now going ahead. As a member of the VU Pride and Ally Network, I proudly walked in the Midsumma Pride Marchon Sunday 23 May and I also hope that the VU Queernival will be back in some form later this year. In the meantime, I wish all of you the best in your studies, your research and your careers. Sincerely, Adam Professor Adam Shoemaker Vice-Chancellor & President

HYDE LGBTQIA

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VUSU President Welcome Welcome readers to another special edition of Hyde - the Pride edition! We at VUSU are passionate about ensuring all VU students are included regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race or religion. This edition celebrates the diverse LGBTQIA+ community we have here at VU, with some amazing content from staff, students and organisations including stories, news, articles, information and more. We are determined to ensure the ongoing inclusive environment and culture at all our campuses and on our social media platforms that celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community. I am so proud of this edition and all the hard work that our VUSU office bearers including Queer, Welfare, Activities and Education have put into making this edition special. This edition is being released as the first of the activities and events that VUSU has planned for Pride Month, along with BBQ’s, morning tea & coffee, competitions, trivia, and more. Keep your eyes on our social media platforms (FB & instagram) for all things Pride in the month of June. We understand the role that education plays in the conversation and our commitment to inclusion and diversity is a part of our internal making.

VUSU ensures that we will never stop the conversation of inclusion, awareness and support of our LGBTQIA+ student community and to ensure the safe environment of all students. I just want to say, as the pandemic continues to please lend a helping hand and check in with friends and family. It doesn’t hurt to ask ‘are you okay?’ especially to someone who may need a listening ear. Look after yourself, each other and remember be safe, Hannah Nadin She/Her VUSU President

HYDE LGBTQIA

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HYDE LGBTQIA

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VUSU Queer Officer Welcome

Hey all, my name is Amy (she/her)

Queer identifying students. I also

and I am the Queer officer for

will be having some special Queer

VUSU, I’m currently in my second

speakers to help bring together the

year of the Bachelor of Nursing.

community at VU.

Victoria University Student Union

The main event VUSU has planned

(VUSU)

being

for the LGBTQIA+ department is

LGBTQIA+ friendly and we pride

Queernival. This year we will be

ourselves in making VU a safe place

holding it in August, so Semester 2.

for all. VU has Queer (LGBTQIA+

Keep your eyes out for more details

rooms accessible to all on every

coming very soon.

prides

itself

campus, including City campuses. This year, I will be working my

If anyone has any enquirers or

hardest to try and upgrade these

needs help or support feel free to

rooms in order to encourage more

contact

students to use them. Currently there

are

pride

rooms

Nicholson, and St Albans campuses, so go check them out. The VU Queer Collective is also up and running again this year, which is exciting. You can look them up on Facebook by searching 'VU Queer Collective'. Throughout the rest of the year I will be creating more on-campus

through

queer@vustudentunion.com

City

Flinders, Footscray Park, Footscray

and online events targeted at

Yours in Pride,

- Amy

emails:

LGBTQIA+/Gay/ Homosexual

Lesbian/Women Loving Women (WLW)

Transgender

Nonbinary

Bisexual

Pansexual

Genderfluid

Asexual

Polysexual

*Please note: this is not an extensive list of Pride Flags, just some of the recognisable ones

HYDE LGBTQIA

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pride rooms VU's Pride Rooms are a safe space for Queer and Gender diverse students regardless of their orientation or gender identity. Please note these rooms are currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.

footscray park

footscray nicholson

E106

T103 available 8:30am - 9pm

st albans

city flinders

4N115

G123

- Jennifer Russo An Ally is someone who is a heterosexual and/or cisgender person, who supports and stands up for the LGBTQIA community. However, being an ally does not mean that you speak on behalf of the community. If someone asks you about your opinions on an issue that the LGBTQIA+ community faces, it's recommend that they ask a person of the community or direct them to an LGBTQIA+ book, magazine, podcast or social media account to give the community a chance to talk about the issue.

Give support to everyone regardless of their race, sexual orientation, gender or religion. Be an active bystander and call out discrimination if and when you feel comfortable. If you don't feel comfortable in the moment, check in with the person afterwards. When someone comes out to you, thank them for trusting you. Coming out can be a daunting experience, and they’ve chosen to share this experience with you because they feel comfortable. Talk about some of the issues that the LGBTQIA+ community faces to people who may not know about

Be prepared to have difficult conversations with those who may be unsupportive of the LGBTQIA+ community. Use someone affirmed name. If you mess up don’t worry just correct yourself. Don’t make a big deal about it! Read books and websites and listen to podcasts from people in the community. It can give you an insight to others experiences. Introduce them with your friends and peers that are LGBTQIA+, this can establish a social support system. However, ensure you get permission from both parties first.

HYDE LGBTQIA

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Talk about some of the issues that the LGBTQIA+ community faces to people who may not know about.

Do not use dead names. It’s not cool and it can bring up some harmful memories.

Take care of people in your life who need support. Being a good ally means being there for anyone in the community, whether it’s your friend, family member, peers or workmates.

Do not try to set anyone up with your other LGBTQIA+ friends. If they ask for it cool, but don’t take it upon yourself to play cupid!

When you meet someone, ask for their pronouns. It means a world of difference to the LGBTQIA+ community. If you accidentally use the wrong pronouns, correct yourself straight away. It is okay not to get them right the first time!

Do not disrespect someone’s pronouns or continue to purposely use the wrong ones. It's incredibly offensive and rude to the individual. Do not speak on behalf of the community; point them to LGBTQIA+ publications that can answer their questions. Do not ask inappropriate questions or use offensive slang. LGBTQIA+ people may use slang but that doesn't give you the right to use it

If someone confides in you, keep it a secret. Do not out anyone before they are ready. Don’t slander anyone because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or religion.

Don’t assume that when someone is coming out to you, it means that they have a crush on you. Don't be afraid to ask questions when it's the time and place!

At the end of the day, allyship is something that takes consistent effort and work. It isn't something that you can put down, and pick up when you like; it's something that must be done daily. There are plenty are resources to help you in your journey of allyship and support, and some of these are below. Reach Out: https://au.reachout.com/articles/what-is-an-lgbtqia-ally-and-how-can-i-bea-good-one Reach Out: https://www.uis.edu/gendersexualitystudentservices/students/ally-guideuis/ally-guide-uis-dos-donts/

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HYDE LGBTQIA

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VU'S ALL GENDER FACILITIES Footscray Park

M025 & M027

Footscray Nicholson

T126

Sunshine

A125, C115 & C115a

Werribee

1B129

St Albans

4N117A

City Flinders

FLG20

City Queen

ROBL15

City King

K2013

th e (alm ost

Asexual

EDITION

Lesbian

Someone who has little to no interest in sex, but still desires

emotionally

attracted

intimate

relationships.

Asexuality

exists

person

who

identifies

only

generally

other

woman,

female-identifying

who

persons.

Some

spectrum, and aces' romantic attraction is separate from their

lesbians are also attracted to non-binary folk but still use this

sexual identity.

term.

person

other

who

people.

romantic

experiences

Aro

people

attraction,

little

can

and

romantic

experience

their

sexual

attraction

varying

attraction

amounts is

WLW

(Women

loving

Woman)

may

Non-binary Someone whose gender does not fit into the strict categories

separate

of male and female. Non-binary can be gender on its own but is also used as an umbrella term for people who fall outside of the gender binary.

Agender person

gender.

abbreviation

from such.

The

also be used.

Aromantic A

who

They

completely

don't

identify

genderless,

with

male,

has

female

lack

non-binary,

Omnisexual Someone

who

rather they focus absence of gender and identify the most as

however,

a person.

Omnisexual

Bisexual

experiences

gender

pansexual

still

people

tend

people;

sexual

plays a

have

although

attraction part

gender

the

all

their

genders,

attraction.

preference,

terms

are

unlike

often

used

interchangeably.

Someone

who

Sometimes

attracted

bisexuality

also

two

described

genders..

attraction

Pansexual

one's own gender and another gender. Bisexual is sometimes

used

Pansexual

interchangeably

with

pansexual

and

polysexual,

depending on the person.

person

gender

attracted people

isn't

are

factor

all

often in

people

regardless

described

their

'gender

attraction

gender. blind'

others.

Some

pansexual people may use the terms bisexual or polysexual as

Demisexual

well, but others prefer to differentiate.

People

who

formed

only

experience

strong

Demisexuals

can

emotional also

sexual

attraction

connection

experience

with

varying

once

they've

another

person.

amounts

sexual

attraction as well.

Polyamory The capability or desire to be in a relationship with more than one person at once. Polyamory isn't considered cheating as all parties are aware of each other, and consent to each others'

Fluid

and their own involvement.

Used by members of the LGBTQIA+ community who feel their sexual

orientation

and/or

romantic

attraction

not

permanently fixed.

Polysexual Someone

who

experiences

attraction

many,

but

not

all

genders. Polysexual people are attracted to 2 or more genders

Gay

and may use the term bisexual or omnisexual as well.

Someone is attracted to the same gender as they identify as. Gay

can

used

for

women

and

non-binary

people

but

generally used for specifically homosexual men, or MLM (Men Loving Men).

who

Queer An

idea,

movement,

for

people

for

sexual

and

gender

minorities, and people who fall outside the gender and sexual norms. People who identify as Queer use it as a blanket term

Genderqueer Someone

meaning someone who isn't cishet and has had various sexual feels

they

have

non-normative

'queer'

identity experiences.

experience with gender, through identity, presentation or other methods.

Genderqueer

often

used

interchangeably

with

non-binary.

Transgender People who do not identify with their assigned gender at birth.

Genderfluid Someone

Commonly it refers to men who were assigned female at birth (FTM), and women who were assigned male at birth (MTF), so

whose

gender

identity

changes

over

time,

or binary transgender people. Nonbinary people are also included

fluctuates. A person may identify as one or more genders at under any

time

and

their

gender

can

change

random

the

trans*

umbrella,

in were assigned at birth.

response to circumstances.

) a - z o f q u e e r & g e n d e r id e n tit y HYDE LGBTQIA

they

are

not

the

gender

they

HYDE LGBTQIA

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changing your name at vu Need to change your name as a student? Follow the steps below! To change your name head to your MyVU portal first. Click on the three lines in the corner to access the dropdown menu and select 'My Personal Details' at the top of the list.

Fill out the Personal Details form. You will need legal supporting documents (passport, deed poll extracts, birth certificate or extract(s) or medical certificates, and your Student ID card.

You will need to present the personal details form, supporting documents, and your Student ID to VUHQ, in person. For assistance in names changes, contact VUHQ via +61 3 9919 6100 or heading to the live chat Mon - Fri on the VU website.

PRONOUNS 101 WHAT ARE PRONOUNS? Pronouns what we use to refer to people in the third-person when we

he/him

they/them

don't use their name.

she/her WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT? Using peoples' correct pronouns acknowledges and respects them, particularly trans* and gender diverse people who have come out, or are closeted. Recognising their pronouns ensures that you are a safe person, who is making safe spaces for them to exist CAN I GET AN EXAMPLE? 'I saw Sarah on the weekend, her new hair colour is great' 'Have you met Ali? They are in the same course as you' WHAT'S MISGENDERING? Misgendering is when a person refers to someone using the wrong pronouns, which can make the person feel disrespected, unsafe and stressed. Most often people will use the pronouns a person identified with or was assigned with before they came out. This

Always use the pronouns people identify with!

is incredibly harmful to trans*, nonbinary and gender diverse people as it stigmatises the community. Pronoun usage also has a direct link to trans* people's mental health, with lower self-esteem being extremely common.

HYDE LGBTQIA

TYPES OF PRONOUNS

Gendered pronouns

Gender neutral pronouns

Gender pronouns are

Gender-neutral

associated with the

pronouns however

gender binary. They

are not associated

have two types -

with the gender

male associated

binary. Neopronouns

pronouns and female

fall within this

associated pronouns

category. People may

and are the most

use these with

common.

gendered pronouns, or on their own

he/him/his - male associated pronouns

they/them/theirs

she/her/hers -

ze/hir/hirs

female associated

xe/xim/xyr

pronouns

ey/em/eir

WHAT CAN I DO AS A PRONOUN ALLY? There are 3 simple ways you can be a pronoun ally (1) If you don't know someone's pronouns ask them! Introducing yourself first with your pronouns and then asking is a great way to make someone feel comfortable, (2) If you make a mistake, correct yourself quickly and move on. Don't make a big deal about it! (3) Do your research. Learn more about the community without relying on LGBTQIA+ people to educate you.

EDITION

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HYDE LGBTQIA

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MISSED OUT ON GETTING A 2020 HYDE PACK? DON'T WORRY! HEAD TO M128 AND PICK UP YOUR COPIES IN THE STAND

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HYDE BOOK CORNER Daydreaming

about

hitting

your local park or waking up with a good LGBT+ book? Us too,

and

luckily,

you

won’t

have to wait much longer. Here's some interesting books to give a look into.

HYDE LGBTQIA

EDITION

DETRANSITION, BABY BY TORREY PETERS

SARAHLAND BY SAM COHEN

QUEER: WORDS OF CHANGE BY COCO ROMACK

The many Sarahs scattered

Searching for a pithy queer

throughout

read

you

haven’t

Detransition, you

heard

Baby,

have

been?

groundbreaking trans

writer

follows

where

novel

Torrey

three

Sam

Cohen’s

The

innovative

from

collection

run

from

aimless

Peters

women

—

short

the

grad-turned-sex

gamut, college

worker

that

punch?

still

packs

Queer:

Words

Change by journalist Coco Romack curated

fits

the

bill.

collection

A of

transgender and cisgender

non-conforming

quotes, the book highlights

—

reimagining of the biblical

diverse LGBTQ activists and

Sarah.

creatives past and present,

they

embark

uniquely

complicated

gender

story

One

journey of making a family.

consistent,

It’s

bold,

messy,

These

from

lesbian

writer-activist

Audre Lorde to pioneering

truly one-of-a-kind tale, but

tales are as queer as they

transgender actress Laverne

don’t just take it from me:

come.

Cox.

Baby

and

though:

thought-provoking

Detransition,

glorious,

thing

national bestseller with rave reviews,

and

television

series based on the book is already in the works.

Partial

proceeds

will

benefit New York City’s Ali Forney Center.

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MAY THE BEST MAN WIN BY ZR ELLOR ZR

Ellor’s

debut newly

Young

follows out

trans

Adult

HOLDING THE MAN BY TIMOTHY CONIGRAVE

Based

Published in 1995 and not long

interviews

with

who

members,

Jeremy, teen

LET THE RECORD SHOW BY SARAH SCHULMAN

Let

than

200

ACT

the

Record

after the author’s death, Holding the Man has been

decides to challenge his ex-

Show is the most definitive

described as a real-life gay

boyfriend,

history

Romeo and Juliet story. Tim

football

star

the

activist

Lukas, for the coveted title

collective, best known for its

Conigrave met and fell in love

King.

militant

tactics

with John Caleo, the captain

(and

during

of the football team while they

Homecoming

Unresolved

tensions

protest the

height

the

lingering sparks) come to a

AIDS crisis. How to Write an

were students at Xavier

head as they battle it out

Autobiographical

Novel

College in the late 1970s. The

for the crown.

author

Chee

book tells of their years long

called Let the Record Show

relationship and coming-of-

“a masterpiece of historical

age in Melbourne during the

research

1980s and their courage in the

Alexander

and

intellectual

analysis that creates many

face of discrimination. It’s a

windows

heartbreaking love story and a

into

both

vanished world and the one that

emerged

from

one we live in now.”

it,

the

modern Australian classic.

HYDE LGBTQIA

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WHERE THE TREES WERE BY INGA SIMPSON

CONTINUUM BY CHELLA MAN

THE WITCH KING BY H.E. EDGMON

This is another queer

The latest in Pocket Change

This debut Young Adult

Australian book that deals

Collective’s ongoing series

fantasy novel follows Wyatt,

with ‘Australianess’,

of short works by LGBTQ

a witch and transgender

touching on themes of

activists, Continuum comes

man who is forced to

place, childhood, and

from the mind of Chella

reckon with his traumatic

return. Simpson brings

Man, a transgender activist,

past — and confront his ex-

together two stories – one

artist, and model (you

fiancé — in order to save a

of youthful experiences with

probably already follow him

magical kingdom he left

landscape and nature, and

on Instagram). He wrestles

behind. The Witch King is

one of destroyed and

deftly with a challenging

the first of two books in a

ignored indigenous art and

but important question:

duology, and it comes on

culture. Where the Trees

What are the constructs we

the heels of Cemetery Boys,

Were depicts the time of

all need to unlearn in order

Aidan Thomas’s bestselling

youth as a story of the past

to further liberation for all?

YA novel about a trans

and of loss, but does so in a

Latinx witch. Trans and

way that doesn’t descend

gender non-conforming

into nostalgia.

witches to the front!

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THE GENDER WHISPERERS PODCASTS: SAM ELKIN 'My name’s Sam Elkin and I live in Footscray and am currently a writer in residence at the Footscray Community Arts Centre. I started out putting out podcasts a few years ago while volunteering for Joy 94.9, 3CR and 3RRR. During the COVID-19 lockdown, I tried to keep myself busy by producing two independent podcasts focusing on the LGBTIQ+ community.'

Transdemic & Best Day Worst Day are my two current podcasts Sam is working on (see next few pages for more info).

Best Day Worst Day and Transdemic were recorded and produced on the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations. This land was forcibly taken from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. On this stolen land, systems and institutions have been built which are structured to exclude and oppress. Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land. Go to paytherent.net.au to donate.

HYDE LGBTQIA

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BEST DAY, WORST DAY: LGBTIQ+ PEER SUPPORT PODCAST Best Day, Worst Day is my [Sam's] latest podcast, where I have a chat with a different LGBTIQ+ activist or creative each week and ask them to tell me about a good day they’ve had and a bad day they’ve had. I’ve released the first two episodes, and episode 3 with longstanding intersex activist Tony Briffa will be out soon.

EPISODE 1 - Creatrix Tiara is a creative producer, writer and performance artist who is interested in exploring liminality, community, and identity through the perspective of a queer genderqueer immigrant disabled femme of colour. In this episode, they discuss experiencing the global COVID-19 pandemic, quarantines and lockdowns, and the difficulties they experienced accessing mental health support in Melbourne during the 112-day lockdown. They also tell us about a great time they had organised a surprise party for a beloved friend.

EPISODE 2 Joe Ball is a longstanding LGBTIQA+ activist and CEO of Switchboard Victoria. Joe identifies as trans. In this

episode, Joe discusses how they got into activism, the difficulties of dealing with suicide in the workplace and fighting to keep the Out and About community visitors program for older LGBTIQ+ people.

Best Day Worst Day is supported by North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network, VicHealth and Creative Brimbank’s Work for Victoria project. This episode contains references to experiences of poor mental health, lack of mental health support, COVID-19 and suicidal ideation. Listen discretion is advised.

If you need help connecting to any LGBTIQ+ friendly services or want someone to talk to I can suggest contacting Rainbow Door, which is run by Switchboard Victoria and is a helpline for the queer community. Call 1800 729 367 between 10 am and 5 pm during the day or you can text 0480 017 246 and visit rainbowdoor.org.au You can listen to Best Day Worst Day at bestdayworstday.com.au or wherever you get your podcasts.

Transdemic: Trans and Gender Diverse Experiences of the Pandemic Transdemic: Trans and Gender Diverse Experiences of the Pandemic is an independent podcast recorded and produced in Footscray during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. It was supported by Drummond Street Services Queerspace Maribyrnong City Council’s “Together Apart Rapid Relief Fund”. Over four one-hour episodes, we interviewed 25 trans and gender diverse people from across so-called Australia about their experiences of the pandemic focusing on the following topics:

minority communities and trans experience of prison in the pandemic.

EPISODE 1 - Trans healthcare experiences of disability during pandemic.

This podcast is co-hosted by Gemma Cafarella, Sam Elkin and Darcy O’Connell. Transdemic received the 2020 GLOBE Community Award for Excellence in LGBTIQ Media Reporting.

and the

EPISODE 2 - Policing the pandemic: Trans experiences of the ban on public gatherings, access to gender-affirming allied care like electrolysis, the ban on sex work, policing of

EPISODE 3 - Social isolation and love online: Trans experiences of connecting online with friends, family, romance and casual hookups.

EPISODE 4 - Trans home/lessness: Trans peoples positive and negative experiences of home life.

You can listen to Transdemic at transdemic.com or wherever you get your podcasts.

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'Queer talk' Hannah Nadin

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ot em nacS

I Want to Break Free - Queen I'm Still Standing - Elton John I'm Coming Out - Dianna Ross Born This Way - Lady Gaga Heart Attack - Demi Lovato Easy - Troye Sivan, Kasey Musgraves, ft. Mark Ronson Kiss Me More (ft. SZA) - Doja Cat, SZA Feel Something - Joshua Basset Crush Culture - Conan Gray Girls Like Girls - Hayley Kiyoko Manic Pixie Dream Girl - Addison Grace This is Home - Cavetown Ribs - Lorde All for Us (from Europhoria) - Labrinth, Zendaya Bubble Gum Bitch - MARINA Dancing on my Own - Robyn If You're Over Me - Years & Years Girlfriend - Icona Pop

netsil

ICONIC QUEER SONGS

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CONTENT

EDITION

WARNING

The Hyde Team would like to remind readers that this edition contains references to sensitive topics. The next few pages, in particular, have sensitive images which some readers may find difficult. If that is you please feel free to skip ahead to page 56 Assistance is also available if necessary. Please don't hesitate to reach out to the contacts below QLife: 3pm - 12pm, free queer advice & counselling https://qlife.org.au/ Lifeline: 24/7 Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention, call 13 11 14 or https://www.lifeline.org.au/

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ARTISTS' CORNER

MAKEUP IS FOR EVERYONE!!! YOU DON'T HAVE TO IDENTIFY AS A

WOMAN, OR PRESENT FEMININE, IN ORDER TO WEAR MAKEUP. AS A SOCIETY

SHAME

MEN

FOR

BEING

"TOO

SOFT"

THEY

WEAR

MAKEUP, BUT MAKEUP IS JUST A FUN WAY FOR ANYONE TO EXPRESS

THEMSELVES, REGARDLESS OF GENDER OR SEXUAL IDENTITY. WE NEED TO KEEP BREAKING THESE GENDER NORMS AND JUST DO WHAT MAKES US HAPPY! DO YOU EXPRESS YOURSELF WITH MAKEUP?

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"Embrace yourself...and embrace others! Sometimes it can be hard to do both of these. Its hard to love yourself and embrace who you are, and its

also hard to do the same with other people sometimes. No one is perfect, but if we accept all sides of others and ourselves, we can be better together. We should be embracing who we are, and at the same time, embracing who other people are without judgment.

"Pride lasts year round As #pridemonth comes it doesn't mean we can't continue to celebrate loving whoever we choose after June! Remember to continue to support the LGBTQ+ community the whole year too

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Caitlin Blunnie Artist Queer feminist creating art on issues of bodily autonomy. Virginia, USA - she/her

❓Inquires?

email me

hello(@)liberaljane.com liberaljane.store

"No

matter

how

you

identify,

you

are queer enough. Your identity is valid."

❤

You don’t need to be out to be

valid. No matter what, your identity is real and yours

❤"

"Hate speech is not an 'opinion.' An opinion is, "I don't like coffee," it's not

something

that

racist,

homophobic, sexist, or transphobic.

Each and everyone one of us should be able to live our lives the way we want

free

from

discrimination,

oppression and violence.

✊"

"Your gender and sexual identity is your

own.

doesn't

matter

you

decide to sport a bold lip, colorful eye

live

for

highlighter,

identity is just as valid."

your

Kaff-eine @kaffeinepaints Artist

Painting | Community Collabration | Social impact projects | Street murals | Film

'Many of us are feeling anxious, lonely traumatised & disconnected. This is especially the case for some #LGBTQIA+ folks who are confined with bigoted relatives; forced back into the closet for fear conflict; or isolate & cut off from their vital support networks' #'Infinite thanks... Reflect upon the rainbow people, personal/private events, & things for which you've been grateful during your life. ' Kaffeine's 'Infinite Thanks' travelling project celebrates community heroes with community contribution. During lockdown, they created a travelling mural in Melbourne focused on the tough times the Queer community were facing, and how heroes can bring people together

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KATE JUST @katejustknits Queer Feminist/Artist Kate is an Australian based artist working mainly with knitting and crochet. She currently has an exhibition 'The National' at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. Kate's work is politically charged, and often tackles contemporary issues regarding homophobia and sexual assault in the Australian community.

'Anonymous was just a woman' 2019 - 21 Just's 'Anonymous...' features a quote from a Virginia Woolf poem, which Just reflected on during the 11 months it took to create the piece. Just created the panels in open spaces, inviting women to discuss feminist history. The piece was unveiled in Australia the same week of Brittney Higgins sharing her sexual assault story in Parliament, which Kate believes give the piece a double meaning.

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@youcancallmeaz

AZFRANCO he/him artist activist writer poser trans non-binary

' WE ARE NOT DANGEROUS !!! WE ARE NOT 'DIFFERENT' !!! WE ARE NOT 'STRANGE' OR 'UNUSUAL' LOOKING !!! AND WE CERTAINLY DO NOT APPRECIATE BEING LOOKED AT, AS SUCH. I'm tired of being stared at, watched & unnecessarily 'sussed' out when I leave the house. I'm tired of having to hide away my queerness in public, to protect myself... It's not a safe or comfortable way to live and we desperately need help to make it so. don't stare if you see us, just let us be'

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'repeat after me - I will do with my body as I please // I've had a fair few people comment on my choice to get top surgery, and ask ignorant questions or solicit unwanted advice. It's really not anyone's else's choice what we do with our bodies. Top surgery for me is crucial, for my growth. But I don't owe anyone that explanation if I don't want to give it. We are free to make whatever choices we need to in regards to our bodies. Take this as your reminder or your affirmation x don't allow bigots to prevent you from growing'

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GABRIELLA GRIMES

@ggggrimes Artist 25 yr old non-binary gay 'What happens when you stop caring about what people are thinking of you? What happens when you even start to become unhappy with it? What happens when you don't have to be around strangers, and spend most time online in a queer community that validates your transness? When you have an incredibly loving trans partner who helps make you feel things you didn't know you allow to feel?' 'In highschool, I began to understand the word for me was non-binary, but I didn't even feel safe to come out as gay. How could I feel safe enough to come out as trans?'

'I have finally allowed myself to be openly gay.'

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EVERYONE NEEDS

a good blog

The main reasons why people read blogs is to stay connected, learn of different lifestyles, improve by learning new things, feel like they are not the only one, escape and to feel inspired. Reading blogs can be helpful with tips, tricks and advice. They also can help you with what you may be facing and what life throws at you. Here are 10 Queer blogs that are personal, interesting and may bring a bit of an escape to your busy days. Have a look and check out some of these fantastic blogs.

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The Fab Femme is a blog dedicated to unifying

After Ellen is all things lesbian pop culture. They

femmes around the world. Editor, Aryka Randall,

offer

fun

and

focuses

entertainment

news

news,

events

and

femme

lifestyle.

emphasis on LGBT viral content from around the

the

internet.

recaps and celebrity news.

couple

Constance

lesbian Taylor

travel and

blog

Melissa

queer

Langley.

it’s

one

internet.

the

They’re

perspective

queer

really love her Fashionista Femme series and the

Lezbackpack

2002,

feminist for

women.

oldest

well

lesbian

known

Founded

for

sites their

on TV

Autostraddle is the beginning middle and end of girl

girl

internet

content.

Not

THAT

kind

They taught ESL in South Korea for 3 years and

girl on girl, guys- jeesh get your head out of the

have

the

gutter. Okay, well… maybe there is a bit of THAT

world. They’ve recently returned to the US after

chronicled

kind of content on Autostraddle but I promise I

spending

the

their

last

adventures

months

traveling

backpacking

Southeast Asia. Now based in Austin, Texas they

Sunday.

blog

culture

about

their

and wellness.

adventures

around

the

world

for

other

They and

have

vapid

things great fluff

beyond content

too!

MUST write for Autostraddle.

New

LezboSexy on

news,

Life

Goal:

DapperQ

the

leading

unconventionally

website

masculine

for

style.

DapperQ produces original content and events

across

partnered create

the

with

(Un)heeled

celebrations women,

editorials

masculine queers,

folks.

Anita

fashion

styled

photo gender

Said/We

Dolce

for

trans-

and

style

The

trans

they

largest

and

beautifully

featuring

editor

year,

Museum

world’s

individuals. are

nonconforming by

Last

the

gender

identified

shoots

US.

Brooklyn

Vita

Said is

particular favorite.

Queer

Fat

Femme

personal

blog chronicling the life of activist and

all

around

badass

Branlandingham.

her

Cupcake

party

lived

Rebel Brooklyn

glittery-queer have

position series

the need

interviews

artists,

performers

who

Bevin attend when

loved

the

respect

body

“Half

everything

and

tint

strong

used

the

event.

for

her

positivity.

Her

Self in

Hate”

life.

activists,

practice

is She and

self-love

throughout their lives.

Dani Heinrich of Globetrotter Girls has been traveling the world since 2010. as

She

started

means

her

travel

document

year

round-the-world

never

stopped

her

trip,

traveling.

Her

blog onebut site

offers practical tips and guides for travel, but one of my favorite posts is a recent article she wrote about femme invisibility and it impacts on solo lesbian travel.

HYDE LGBTQIA

Danielle

and

Kristin

EDITION

Everyone

Gay are really youtubers, bloggers, and

activists.

awesome Parents

They

program

Project

run

this

called

that

aims

The

help

support parents of LGBT youth. On their

blog,

column

for

they

have

LGBT

youth

advice

that

makes

my heart happy.

Aja

Aguirre

intimidating want

blog Fit 2008

know For

out

positive queer

that

cool

girl

women

stripes.

real

life.

need

for

femme-focused

creativity I

She of

and love

realllllly

Femme was

women.

queer

slightly

body-

space

for

celebrates

color,

personal

femmes

her

Her

born

modern

all

twist

classic and vintage style.

Black Girl Dangerous was started by writer

Mia

platform queer BGD

McKenzie

amplify

the

and has

trans

people

focus

empowerment building.

#BlackLivesMatter has

a of

color. justice,

community writing

and

been

voices

social

and

BGD’s

America

2011

race

huge

point

in of

learning for me in the last year. They have featured over 200 writers from around

the

world

and

act

sounding board for important issues that

are

swept

under

mainstream media.

the

rug

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Do you want to know? - NADIAH BETHANNI I often wonder if you think about what you did. It’s burnt into my head. It’s a scar that opens often. More often that I care to admit, but can anyone blame me? Some don’t believe me, some said whilst it was occurring that I asked for it… but they had no idea of the truth. How do you wake up every morning knowing what you did and not crumble? I crumble. It hurts to think about. Only now can I admit what you did, is that wrong? Why is it only now that I can say it for what it is? Why did I sugar coat it? I think I was protecting me. I was ashamed. I felt like I was in the wrong. I felt like I brought this on myself. You controlled me. You made me believe like I couldn’t say anything. You held me down, my arms, my throat, my being. You had everyone fooled, including me. Little by little you took me away, who I was, I losing it. I didn’t even recognise the person that stared back at me in the mirror. I only ever heard this happening to people, never did I think it would happen to me. Do you want to know something? It takes a truly evil, nasty and horrible person to destroy the strength in someone, where they lose themselves and break each day but smile to those around. I wasn’t angry, I was broken, torn open. Now I’m bloody brave to come out of this. Stronger for what happened to me. The scary thing is there is no getting over this, I must learn to accept my trauma, but I will learn a new strength and joy and I will make sure that this never happens to me again. I have the strength to survive.

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'Untitled' Hannah Nadin

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opening up into Queerness Kate Benesovsky

I'd liken coming out very much to flower opening up. The flower looks plain, boring, perhaps ordinary until in unfurls into a beautiful display of nature. When a person comes out the reveal a gorgeous, precious part of themselves that has been closed away for so long. Finally the world can see the beauty they have inside them, which has always been there. Coming out is opening yourself up to love. Obviously the romantic kind of love, where you can finally find the partner you want and are interested in. More importantly however you are opening yourself up to self-love, awareness and growth. Much like a flower that needs to be watered the right amount, and enough sunshine to grow, you as

a person have specific needs for self growth as well. Coming out is a form of self expression, and leads to self-growth. By coming out you are working on your confidence by showing who you truly are. Not everyone can come out however, some people need stay closed a little longer and that's okay! Other people are like moonflowers - flowers that only bloom for one night at a specific time. You may need to stay closed off for your safety. It is super important you do not rush something as important as coming out, without considering the impacts of such. So there you have it, find the flower that matches you and treat yourself with the same love, respect and time as you would it.

Pride, Respect, Equality Pride, Respect, Equality is Respect Victoria's newest campaign; regarding domestic violence, targeted at LGBTQIA+ individuals and families. The campaign aims to spread awareness about violence and discrimination in homes as a result of LGBTQIA+ and/or gender identity. So, what are the statistics? Unfortunately data collected on individuals experiencing, or who have experienced, family violence is incredibly minimal. La Trobe collected some datain the largest national survey done in history (2020). The findings include: More than 6 in 10 LGBTQIA+ Australians have experienced family violence Parents, or a parent figure, are the most common perpetrators of family violence. 70% of survees said that one parent was a perpetrator of the violence, 30% responded with a sibling, and 20% extended family

Verbal abuse is the most common form of abuse (41%), closely followed by LGBTQrelated abuse (40%), emotional abuse (39%), and physical abuse (24%). What does family violence look like for LGBTQIA+ people? Using a persons gender or sexuality to assert power and/or take control Rejection by family members, as individuals to not 'fit in' Threatening to 'out' person to workplace, friends, or other family members Threatening to and revealing HIV status of a said LGBTQIA+ person Withholding/hiding hormones and other gender affirming medications/therapy Purposefully misgendering (using the wrong pronouns) and/or deadnaming What are the barriers to support? LGBTQIA+ people face similar barriers to heterosexual victims, including difficulty

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More than 6 out of 10 LGBTQIA+ Aussies have experienced family violence

- La Trobe University 2020

recognising family violence, safety concerns, lack of knowledge regarding support services and networks, and reliance on a perpetrator for housing and/or finances. Services for victims often refer hetrosexual, cisgendered women and excluded LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially the transgender and gender diverse community. Services for perpetrators almost exclusively focus on cisgendered, heterosexual men. Where can support be found? There are number of resources out there for LGBTQIA+ individuals who are experiencing family violence Respect Victoria - for more information regarding the Pride, Respect, Equality visit https://www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au/c ampaigns/pride-respect-equality#whyis-this-campaign-important

Rainbow Door - free specialist advice to LGBTQIA+ people and families. Contact 1800 729 367 , visit their website https://www.rainbowdoor.org.au/ or email support@rainbowdoor.org.au QLife - Queer service providing advice 3pm - 12am daily through 1800 184 527 and https://qlife.org.au/ Queerspace - is a free LGBTQIA+ health and wellbeing service offered by Drummond Street Services. They provide counselling and professional development 9am - 5pm, Mon - Fri. Visit the link https://www.queerspace.org.au/ for more info 1800RESPECT - is available 24/7 to support victims of abuse, family violence, sexual assault and/or physical violence. Visit https://www.1800respect.org.au/ In an emergeny, always contact 000

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Dear OP of love letter no. ########, It has been four years since I read your love letter, and it has stuck with me all this time. I wanted to respond to you back then, but I didn’t quite have the words. I think I have the words now, although the overall message won’t be the same as what I would have given you four years ago. I was a first-year, after all, when I first read your letter. You were a closeted student with a traditional family and were writing to express your sadness that you would never be able to come out if you wanted to stay a part of your family. You were also jealous of the gay couples you would see around on campus because in them you saw something you would never get to have. When I read your letter, I was sitting on the train after a whirlwind day of tutorials, lectures, and workshops, and I was exhausted beyond belief. Your letter was a mixture of anger, jealousy, and grief, and all I could think was “Me too.” Because there I was, a closeted lesbian, filled with the same turmoil as you. I couldn’t comment on your letter, of course, but I wished I could let you know somehow that I was in the same siutation. I was closeted, in a

relationship with a guy, and terrified about what my mum would think if she found out. I was resigned to an unhappy life to keep the status quo, even though the thought of it was killing me. Every one of your words resonated within me. Finally, here was proof that someone else felt the same way as I did. Pretty fucked up that I was weirdly happy about it, but there you go. I was comforted by the thought that someone else out there felt just as lonely and wrong and unhappy as I did.

Disgusted. Angry. And she still hasn’t forgiven me. My dad didn’t say anything. I’m not sure what his feelings are because he’s never said a word.

OP, the reason why this isn’t the same response as I would have written to you back then is because I’m not in the same dark place. Four months after I read your letter, I came to a realisation that shifted my worldview. I want to say that firstly, of course I love my parents. I’d do almost anything for them. But I love myself more than I want the future they have envisioned for me. I want more for myself than what they have planned. I deserve more than that.

This community that we belong to, the one that I avoided for such a long time out of fear of what people might think, is just a massive family that loves and protects each other.

Like you said, every child has a responsibility to their parents, but we also have a responsibility to ourselves. We have a responsibility to live our lives to the best possible extent, and we can never do that if we allow our parents wishes to stop us. So I came out. And I'll be honest OP, it didn't go well. My mum was gutted.

It wasn’t great. But not one of my friends turned their backs on me. They’ve only ever been supportive, and hell, some of them even came out after I did. My friends are the best family I could ask for, and I promise OP you’d be welcome.

OP, I have a girlfriend now. She’s so beautiful, and my heart aches when I think about her, and all I want to do is hold her hand and kiss her until I can’t breathe. Four years ago, I never would have thought that I could have this. This was an impossible dream, an unattainable fantasy. But now it’s real. I hope you’re happy wherever you are, OP. I hope someday you feel safe enough to come out one day, because you deserve to be yourself. Best wishes,

F.H.

LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day calls for victims to be #SeenAndBelieved JORDAN HIRST

25 MAY 2021

The right to live a life free from domestic violence and abuse is a person’s most basic human right. But for many LGBTQ people, it is sadly not a reality. More than half of LGBTQ people will experience some form of domestic, family or intimate partner violence or abuse in their lifetime. But most victims remain invisible, with only a fraction of cases reported to police. This Friday (May 28) is LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day. This year’s campaign #SeenAndBelieved aims to make every invisible victim visible. Ben Bjarnesen (pictured), a domestic violence survivor, started the awareness day last year. He also founded the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Foundation. With the new campaign, Bjarnesen wants all LGBTQ victims and survivors to know they’ll be #SeenAndBelieved and support is available to them.

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“Domestic and family violence is an insidious issue that can affect anyone, regardless of their gender, income, occupation, location, race, or religion,” he said. “LGBTQ people are not immune from experiencing this problem.” Ben Bjarnesen is a LGBTI Liaison Officer in the Queensland Police Service. He shared his own personal experience with QNews.com.au in 2019. “The majority of mainstream coverage of this issue frames it as exclusively a heterosexual problem,” he said. “[As a result] many LGBTQ people feel that what they are experiencing doesn’t fall under the umbrella of domestic violence. “Or if they seek help, they feel they either won’t be believed or support won’t be available. “We need to make sure that LGBTQ people know they are seen, they are believed, and there are organisations that will support them.” Everyone has the right to feel safe in their relationships. Australia recognises the month of May as Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month each year. Foundation patron Dame Quentin Bryce said all people have the right to feel safe in their relationships. “Everyone deserves to live a life free from domestic and family violence,” she said. “We must never back away from our ambition of zero tolerance.” If you or someone you know is at risk of domestic and family violence: In an emergency call Triple Zero (000) and ask for the police. Call Diverse Voices on 1800 184 527 from 3pm – midnight. Diverse Voices is a peer-to-peer phone and internet counselling service focused on the diverse voices that make up our community.

Check out the latest issue of QNEWS QNews is a Queensland-based media organisation covering the latest in local and national LGBTIQ current affairs, community issues, entertainment and more. A new print edition of QNews is released monthly, every second Friday, and new content is published on our website daily. QNews is proudly Australia’s largest source of information for the LGBTIQ community. We provide news, views, covering arts, entertainment, politics, health, travel, events and much more. Our mission is to inspire readers by making a positive impact in their lives through telling the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community’s stories.

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ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS Have you ever thought that the things you do to people stay with them for the rest of their lives. You say things, you do things, but have you thought of the impact. You say to someone they are beautiful, loving, kind hearted, have a great smile, that you love them, that they make a great coffee. Have you seen the smile that comes from their face? How wonderful does that makes you feel? You say to someone they are a bad friend, not enough, a fag, fat, a slut, disgusting, selfish, worthless, never going anywhere. Have you seen the sadness wash over them? How does this make you feel? Do you believe that the actions that you take towards someone stay with them? Think about it for a minute… You called that flamboyant child on playground a fag, do you think they forgot?

the

You called that teen that is two sizes bigger than you fat, do you think they forgot?

You told that university student they’re never going anywhere, do you think they forgot? You called that sexual assault survivor a slut, do you think they forgot? Think before you speak. Think about the impact that your words have on someone. If you wouldn’t like it done to you, why do it to someone else?

- Nadiah Bethanni

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As I sit here, in front of my cute, but antique looking Casio keyboard, looking out through my window into the beautiful, rain-kissed garden. The realisation of what I have been through, my own experience over the past months, dawns on me. I am a survivor. I am blessed, in the truest sense of the word. I have been challenged over the past months; from the breakup of a long-term relationship to moving from place to place, to struggling with self-confidence and my identity, and even grappling with the notion that I will never be good enough. I understand that, from an outside view, I can (and have) presented myself with togetherness and a sense of organisation and confidence, but I am far from those things. Or so I thought. I am currently sitting on my office chair on wheels, in my new room, which is intimidatingly large with bright lights, big windows and hardwood floors, in a new share house, and I couldn’t be happier. The smell of rain soothing my soul as I look around the room and see the boxes, still full of things that I have not yet unpacked. These boxes have become somewhat of a symbol of my resilience. My last week has been full of stress, anxiety and sickness all of which I am just overcoming.

As I sit here

I am Thankful.

- Oliver Kaiser

interactions over my first few days here have

Euphoria kicks in as I see one of my new housemates walk through the front door, I go down and greet her, we share some pleasantries and off she goes to continue her day. These been lifesaving. When I move into a new environment,

often

feel

sense

hopelessness. I feel alone and ungrounded, with

an overwhelming sense that I don't belong. Here

to fake an injury or weather, I would have an

is different, here my housemates are wonderful

anxiety attack. All of that went out the window

and glorious and funny and helpful and kind; all

when that starting bell sang out. Off we went.

the things a mid-twenty-year-old, bisexual,

Long story short, I managed to not only

over-loaded, tenacious and fun-loving guy could

complete the run, but I did it in under an hour. I

want.

was over the moon, I had just proven to myself that I could do it, even in the face of adversity

I am Proud.

and being genuinely unsure as to if I even could.

I think my anxiety is fairly clear, I struggle with

I Did It.

that. I also struggle with my sense of identity; questions flow through my head, questions

I learnt a lot about myself, about my resilience

which are detrimental to my mental health:

and about how to just do it (Please don’t sue me, Nike). My outlook has changed immensely since

What if I am not good enough?

I embarked on that run; my self-confidence has

What if I’m not good looking enough?

improved, the way I look at myself in the

What if I am not kind enough?

context of other people has also improved, and I

What if I am not lovable?

have begun doing something that I have never seriously done before: goal setting. I have a list

I know these are silly. I know they are

of goals that I want to achieve, some academic,

trivial. And yet, here I am, thinking about these

some emotional, some fitness related, and others

things, thinking about whether that girl I like

mental health-related. The best part is that

likes me back, thinking about whether I am

although I still have self-doubt, I still have

worthy of the good grades I am getting at Uni,

intrusive thoughts, I still have nights where I

or the praise I receive on the soccer field?

ask myself what the point is, I am taking steps to achieve these goals. For example, one of the

I am learning that I am Worthy. Even now, I am anxious about the length of this, I am asking myself whether this is too long to submit, I am questioning if this is too self-

goals I have is to run a half-marathon by the end of the year, that is 21.1km! And you know what? Last week, I booked a half marathon for July 25th, well before my own deadline.

indulgent. Is it? I guess I won’t know until

I want to conclude by opening my doors, if you

someone reads it and even if they provide me

need help with anything, or just want to have a

with a positive response, I will still not believe

chat, please come to me, either over email:

them.

generalsecretary@vustudentunion.com,

I want to finish this entry with words of positivity, but that would be to cliche. So I guess we're doing cliche. In May, I ran a 10km ‘fun’ run. That is not a brag, I genuinely struggled. From the time of registration, all the way to 10 seconds before the race, my head was full of doubt. I was actively thinking about how to get out of it, I would have

Facebook, or even Instagram: @olivermyface. I am a Survivor. I am Thankful. I am Proud. I am learning that I am Worthy. I Did It. And you can too, Have a wonderful day, Olli x

BEHIND THE IMAGE

The Stonewall Inn is the site of the momentous Stonewall Riots which were the catalyst for the first Pride. On the 29th of June 1969, Police stormed the Stonewall Inn, a gay NY club as genderless clothing and mixed bathroom usage was a crime. Such resulted in 6 days of violent protests and clashes between law enforcement and the LGBTQIA+ community. These riots kickstarted Queer activism and Queer organisation, allowing equality to progress.

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I Have Always Known - Anonymous

I have always known that on some level that I was gay. I come from an extremely homophobic household, so I was very secretive about whom I would text and talk about. I was texting a boy that I was interested in, and my Father found the messages. He confronted me and asked me if I was gay. I told him that I was indeed gay, and he insisted that I had to be straight as long as I lived in his house. He told me that I had no right to be gay and that it’s a choice, but it isn’t a choice. We don’t get to pick whom we love or what gender we love. My mother doesn’t accept me either and neither do half of my family, but that is not their choice. It’s mine. If I want to date a boy, that is what I’m going to do. When I came out to them, it was one of the scariest experiences of my life, but after I did, I felt as if a heavyweight was lifted from my chest. I felt stronger and braver than I have in a long time. I felt as if I could do anything. However, if you are in a situation where it is unsafe, do not feel compelled to come out. You choose when or if you come out. Now, whenever I am sad or disappointed, I remember how I felt that day. It keeps me going that I can openly be myself and not have to lie. I have so many people supporting me, I have amazing friends that help me get through the day and support me no matter what, and for that, I have to say thank you.

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LOCKDOWN SELF-LOVE Crafting is proven to help your mental health and is an act of self-love. It can: -

help relieve stress & anxiety help build self-esteem induce relaxation assist with insomnia build community & friendships

In fact any kind of art therapy can assist with mental health wellness and is often used in treatment of depression and anxiety. VU Community member Freja started her on lockdown crafting journey with crochet last year, and has created earrings and soft toys. You can check out their creations on instagram - @towooltheworld

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I still remember Aslan back from high school. He transferred to our school from another city. A shy, rangy new kid who was super quiet. He was different from others but I would say he was not ordinary. He would always sit by himself in the classes, on playgrounds and in the cafe. Aslan always had a big grin on his face and a very welcoming smile but was not very social. He did not even try to make new friends, he looked like he was happy by himself. I would say hello every now and then until one day I got to know him a bit better.

HYDE MAGAZINE PRESENTS

B L A S T F R O M P A S T

W H A T :

B Y :

A S L A N

M U G H E E S

W H E N :

I S S U E

R A Z A

2 0 2 0

T H E

It was the time when our city was flooded with the heaviest rain in years and the roads became canals. I left home for the morning laboratory which was mandatory to attend only to end up being late because of the disastrous state of the roads. I ran to the lab drenched, burst in the room and made my way to my seat without disrupting the class decorum. Half way through the lab I found out the groups have already been assigned and I was not allocated in any. The professor told me Aslan is working alone so I could join him if I want, so I concurred. I went up and sat next to him and all he did was smile at me while I was walking towards him and not a single word after that. I felt a little awkward. I was just making up sentences in my mind to start a conversation. When finally I said “So, how is it going?”, to which he chuckled and said “You don’t really have to be friends with me. We can work on this lab together and that’s all”. I was perplexed but I asked him why he would not want to be friends with me to which he said “I would love to but I’m not really good at being friends with people”.

Right at the moment he said that, the bell rang and he quickly packed his stuff and went outside the room. Later during recess I saw him sitting in the cafe having lunch. I went up to him and yelled “I hate apples”. He looked at me appalled and a few seconds later uttered “But it’s a good apple” and we both burst into laughter. We spent the rest of the recess talking about how he was finding the new city and new school, and how his family still lived in another city and it sometimes made him homesick. I told him he was always welcome to come at my place to hangout whenever he feels like or ever wanted to eat home made food. Well, I thought I finally broke the wall he built around himself and we could actually be friends but I never saw him after that. A couple of days later our principal broke the news to us in the morning assembly that Aslan took his own life and he was no more. Everyone present on the ground was shook to the core. We could not believe what we just heard. It was one of the darkest, gloomiest days for all of us. The principal gave us the details about his burial and a few of us went to it. I tried finding one of his parents to pay my condolences but I could not find them. Upon asking several people I came to know that only one of his relatives showed up at the burial.

I was finding it hard to believe that his parents were not there. I asked the one relative what could be the reason Aslan’s parents were not there, to which he sighed and said something which just made me speechless, “Because he was gay”. My mind was buzzing with questions like how could someone not say their last goodbye to their own child just because he was gay? How could someone hate their own child so much? Why can we not accept people as they are? So what if they are different? So what if they do not fit in the social criteria? I wish I knew before Aslan was gone. I wish I could support him. I wish I could have helped him. There are too many Aslans who gave up and there are many who are fighting. We as a society need to be more accepting and more supportive. We need to stop judging people if they do not fit in the general criteria of sexuality. We need to be open minded and kind to people because everyone is fighting their own battles everyday. Some of them don’t make it. I can never forget Aslan and his beautiful bright smile and all the potential and all the love that went with him. All I would say is that love is love regardless of gender or sexuality. I see Aslan in people around me and it makes me realise that all they want is to love, is it too much to ask for?

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VUSU VIP 2021

Join the Victoria University Student Union now! Being a VUSU VIP means that you'll get access to perks and discounts at VUSU events throughout the year! Plus you also get free stuff. *Valid for 2021 ONLY

GOLD $45

What is included: Discount on and off campus! (foooodd) VUSU Hoodie VUSU Keep Cup or Water Bottle VUSU Phone Wallet VUSU Hand Sanitiser VUSU Key Ring VUSU Pen BABH Badge

SILVER $30

BRONZE $15

What is included:

Discount on and off campus! VUSU Drink bottle or Keep Cup VUSU Phone Wallet VUSU Hand Sanitiser VUSU Key Ring VUSU Pen BABH Badge

Discount on and off campus! VUSU Drink bottle VUSU Phone wallet VUSU Vintage Beanie

Yearly Sticker added to your student ID

HYDE LGBTQIA

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v u s t u d e n t u n i o n . c o m / b a b h

The Be a Better Human Campaign was launched in 2019 by VUSU after the Australian Human Rights Commission conducted a survey on university students in 2017 and released the National Report on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment at Australian Universities.

This initiative was created with a group of Flinders students from the ground up, to reflect campus culture. We don’t just want it to be about what we shouldn’t do; we want it to be about selfimprovement for everyone. And when we say ‘everyone’, we really do mean everyone. We’re encouraging everyone who is part of our campus community to take a moment and consider how we can ‘better’ our behaviour. “Victoria University has a zero tolerance approach to violence in any form, including sexual and genderbased violence. Gender-based violence is a serious social issue driven by gender inequality and enabled by sexist attitudes and behaviours. We work to build a culture of safety and respect, where students and staff are empowered to become change agents to help stop gender-based violence at the University and in the wider community” (VU Respect & Responsibility). In-line with the VU Respect and Responsibility Department & VUSU Bystander Awareness Training, and Consent and Respectful Relationships Module,

VUSU believes that bringing the BaBH campaign to VU further develops education for students of the west to be a better human.“It is important that we all show that sexism and harassment have no place at our university. Everyone should be treated fairly and have a safe and respectful place to learn.” (VU Respect & Responsibility email). Launching this campaign last year, and working with Respect & Responsibility was a highlight of my time in VUSU. Together, we can break down stigmas and ensure a safe and equitable education and life for all. - Cat Abourizk (VUSU President 2019) We believe that this campaign is not centered at spreading a name or a department. It’s about everyone doing better, and their bit to change the culture around sexual assault and harassment. We have widely seen our Consent, Empathy, Respect tote bags and jumpers on campus, at the shops, at concerts and many other places, supporting this movement. Look out for this campaign and more this semester in 2020. BaBH is always developing, understanding, and learning.

TOGETHER we can BE a BETTER HUMAN!

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Colour your own masterpiece!

Frida Kaldo's Self Portrait with a Necklace of Thorns (1940)

HYDE LGBTQIA

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QUEER WORD SEARCH

Genderfluid Drag Queen Polysexual Coming Out Aromantic Pride

Proud Lesbian Gay Agender Omnisexual

Polyamory Protest Queer Activism Transition Closeted

Femme Pronouns LGBTQIA Love Asexual

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Hyde Student Magazine would like to thank the following people for their support and contribution Adam Shoemaker - VU Vice-Chancellor Hannah Nadin - VUSU President Amy Wilcox-Davies - VUSU Queer Officer Kate Benesovsky - VUSU Vice-President Welfare Mughees Raza - VUSU Vice-President Activities Jennifer Russo - VUSU Vice-President Education Jaz - VU Student, VUSUteer F.H - VU Student Oliver Kaiser - VUSU General Secretary Anonymous - VU Student Nadiah Bethanni - VU Student Sam Elkin - Transdemic & Best Day Worst Day Podcasts Freyja, VU Community Mickey Deppler - VU Queer Collective

See yourself in a future edition of HYDE? Email us at hyde@vustudentunion.com

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RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY Online Training Working or studying from home? Catch up on new online training from Respect and Responsibility! Learn about practical ways to fight gender-based violence and build your leadership skills. The training was co-designed with VU students, is practical and is based on real life examples. Consent and Respectful Relationships A respectful relationship is everyone’s right. This training looks at respectful relationships and consent through interactive scenarios and real-life examples. Bystander Awareness and Action Everyone should have a safe place to learn. This training gives you practical strategies for challenging everyday sexism. It is important that we all take action to show that sexism and harassment have no place at our university. Each module takes about 20–30 minutes. Go to bit.ly/VU-RESPECT to access these modules within Collaborate. bit.ly/VU-RESPECT vu.edu.au/respect-responsibility