SouthWest Asian & North African (SWANA) Institute

The SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) Institute is a day-long convening centering queer and trans SWANA people and communities. This institute is designed to strengthen networks, share strategies, and celebrate the richness and resilience of our cultures within the broader LGBTQ+ movement.

Morning (Public Session)

The first half of the institute is open to all Creating Change attendees. This session will introduce participants to the lived realities, challenges, and organizing strategies of queer and trans SWANA communities. Drawing on past Creating Change sessions, we will explore how Orientalism, pinkwashing, and homonationalism shape public narratives about SWANA people, as well as their role in obscuring occupation and reinforcing racism. We will also examine health disparities and systemic barriers faced by SWANA LGBTQ+ individuals, along with strategies for advocacy and solidarity. Through panels, interactive presentations, and cultural sharing, participants will leave with a deeper understanding of queer and trans SWANA experiences and the ways these struggles connect to global movements for justice. Allies are strongly encouraged to attend to learn, listen, and build meaningful solidarity.

Afternoon (Private Session)

The second half of the institute will be a closed space exclusively for queer and trans SWANA participants. This time will center both healing and forward-looking strategy. Together, we will share stories, strengthen connections, and address the unique challenges we face — from invisibility in mainstream LGBTQ+ spaces to displacement and systemic oppression. Building on these conversations, we will focus on movement building: strategizing how to amplify queer and trans SWANA voices, deepen collaboration across cities and regions, and sustain a strong national network. This Zionism-free space will ground participants in collective care, solidarity, and the shared vision of liberation.

Find out more in the Creating Change pheedloop app.