Pillar 2:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 12:
Developing ambitious cultural projects for vulnerable groups

The city of Kortrijk has made significant strides in fostering a more inclusive and diverse cultural scene, with supporting initiatives like Qace [kweis, queer space] which began as a group of young people looking for a safe(r) queer space in the cultural sector.

The group met every two weeks to talk, discuss and brainstorm on ways to engage in gender inclusive work in Schouwburg Kortrijk, the municipal theatre, and the surrounding area.

Following research conducted by Schouwburg Kortrijk a survey was distributed, which led to the formation of a group of young people committed to the themes of gender, diversity, and inclusivity.

Their objective was to educate and initiate dialogue around LGBTQIA+ experiences for both themselves and others.

chouwburg then started organising events (which they described as “edutainment” – a blend of education and entertainment) that provided a platform for people of colour and queer artists.

Their goal was to showcase people of colour and queer individuals both onstage and offstage, always in a safe environment, while fostering conversations around these topics.

The city of Kortrijk also gives opportunities and offers support to new partners in the city such as: QueerKortrijk (students from the universities of applied sciences Howest and Vives), Safety Pin (an organisation pinning queer places on the map) and the BAF collective (a creative playground of 40 young artists).

The city is also programming an annual Qace talk as part of Schouwburg Kortrijk in collaboration with several new partners. Workshops for schools and teachers on topics surrounding gender expression and identity are also offered.