Do you identify as a queer Orthodox? Do you want to be part of the Europride 2024, raise our community’s visibility and build connections with queer people of your faith? If so, we invite you to join us in Thessaloniki for Europride events including the Orthodoxy-themed panel discussion and the parade on 28-29 June 2024.
In 2024, the Europride will take place in a traditionally and predominantly Orthodox country for the second time (after Belgrade 2022). Yet, it will be the first occasion to celebrate the progress of such a country in terms of acceptance of LGBTI+ people and respect for their rights: it is this year that Greece introduced marriage equality!
This context presents an ideal opportunity for Orthodox queer people to raise their visibility and advance the conversation around the inclusion of queer people in the Orthodox Church. However, it is important to show that this conversation concerns a large and diverse group of people and to gather a solid team in Thessaloniki.
We understand that financial barriers can hinder the participation of activists in these crucial events. The European Forum of LGBTI+ Christian Groups offers a limited number of scholarships to help cover travel and accommodation costs, with a maximum value of 500 euros per scholarship.

Who can apply?

This scholarship is designed for queer Orthodox activists who are:

• Passionate about fostering LGBTI+ inclusivity within the Orthodox community
• Willing to participate in Europride as a part of queer Orthodox community, which means walking in the parade as part of an organised group carrying banners identifying that group as queer Orthodox persons
• Interested in attending the Orthodoxy-themed panel discussion at Europride 2024

What will you gain?

• A unique opportunity to meet and collaborate with fellow queer Orthodox activists
• A possibility to raise the visibility of Orthodox activists at the Europride and inspire others within the Orthodox community
• Insights and knowledge from leading voices in the LGBTI+ inclusion in the Orthodox sphere
• Access to Europride’s workshops, discussions, and events designed to promote inclusion and equality for all

How to apply?
Please submit the application questionnaire by 3 June 2024.
Scholarships will be awarded based on the relevance and impact of your activism and your commitment to advancing LGBTI+ inclusion within the Orthodox community: please mention them in the answer to the question “Why do you want to take part?”
We encourage applications from individuals of all genders, sexual orientations, gender identities, expressions, sex characteristics, and diverse backgrounds. The European Forum of LGBTI+ Christian Groups is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all participants.

How will the scholarship be provided?
The European Forum will pay for your tickets and accommodation (up to the 500 euros limit).

Application Deadline: 3 June 2024

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact the European Forum’s Coordinator for Eastern Europe and Central Asia at lyoshka.gerassimenko (at) lgbtchristians.eu.

Join us in Thessaloniki for an inspiring and transformative experience!

Misza Czerniak, Co-President of European Forum of LGBTI+ Christian Groups
Lyoshka Gerassimenko, Coordinator for Eastern Europe and Central Asia