The LGBTQ+ Arab community in Berlin has been enhancing its identity and culture by forming the 'Adira' community and organizing various events. 'Adira', derived from an Arabic colloquial term meaning a person with a strong character, has emerged as a cultural community in the city and focuses on hosting festivals related to Arab LGBTQ+ culture.
Adira Drag Festival and Honoring Cultural Icons
The Adira Drag Festival, which recently held its third edition in late October in Berlin, celebrated legendary figures from the Eastern Mediterranean with the theme 'Who is Diva?!'. This festival showcases drag artists who have become cultural and artistic icons. Among these figures are 'Umm Kulthum' from Egypt, 'Bülent Ersoy' from Turkey, and 'Haifa Wehbe' from Lebanon.
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Hasandra, one of the founders of the Adira Drag Festival, performed as the Lebanese artist 'Elissa' at this event. Hasandra emphasized the importance of showcasing her Lebanese Arab identity and stated that Arab culture is very beautiful and captivating, filled with brilliant and artistic figures.
Challenges and Cultural Implications
In an interview before the festival, Hasandra mentioned Elissa's personality traits, noting that while her works are romantic and delicate, her real-life persona is much more outspoken and daring. She also highlighted Elissa's political stances in support of the LGBTQ+ community in the Middle East, stressing that artists can address cultural and social challenges by expressing their opinions and create a safer space for their community.
Hasandra further pointed out the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ Arab community, stating, 'As gay Arab individuals, we are in a position where we face racism and cultural challenges. We need to tell our community that we are also affected by these events, but we reject any form of racism.' She also emphasized the necessity of creating a safe space for all people to live in Germany.
These events and activities not only help create a sense of belonging and support for members of the LGBTQ+ Arab community but also promote Arab culture and identity in an artistic and creative environment. With the rise of racism and Islamophobia, the Adira community continues its efforts as a safe haven for these marginalized groups, organizing events and cultural discussions to foster an empathetic and supportive society.
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