Support LGBTIQ choir from Timor-Leste

Support LGBTIQ+ choir from Timor-Leste

We need your help to bring Lian Esperansa (Voices of Hope), an LGBTIQ+ choir from Timor-Leste, to the Out & Loud & Proud Choral Festival in Sydney in February 2023.

Have a listen to their moving performance of Ita Ida De'it (We Are One) in Timor-Leste.

Choral Festival

The Out & Loud & Proud festival is held every 3-4 years and gathers LGBTIQ+ choirs from this part of the world. The 2023 festival will be hosted by the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir (SGLC), and this time is part of World Pride, the first time this global celebration of queer culture is to be held in the southern hemisphere. For the choral festival, over 500 participants from LGBTIQ+ choirs are expected. It will include both individual choir and massed choral performances, music workshops, social events and critical networking opportunities.

Canberra Qwire, the hosts of the 2019 choral festival, is working in partnership with SGLC and is coordinating the participation of Lian Esperansa.

Photo: Massed festival chorus, Out & Loud Canberra 2019. Courtesy Peter Hislop

Singing out in Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is traditionally a conservative, predominantly Catholic country. Though there have been some positive developments recently, there remains an urgent need to build acceptance for the full spectrum of gender diversity and sexual orientation. Through their music, Lian Esperansa are a shining beacon promoting an acceptance and celebration of queer culture in that country.

Previous participation

Ten members of Lian Esperansa joined the 2019 festival. This was the first time a choir from outside of Australia and New Zealand participated in the festival. They stole the hearts of audiences and other festival participants with their passion, professionalism, enthusiasm and warmth. We want to bring them back in 2023, with 15 members this time. Participation in the 2023 Out & Loud & Proud festival will strengthen their choir, and will provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. Through the choir’s visibility and advocacy, this support for Lian Esperansa is also support for the emerging LGBTIQ+ community in Timor-Leste.

Video: Highlights of Out & Loud Canberra 2019

Target

Organisers are seeking to raise AUD$30,000 (USD$21,000) to cover airfares, accommodation, and associated costs for 15 members of Lian Esperansa. This is on top of AUD$20,000 that Canberra Qwire has already facilitated towards the costs.

Donate now to help bring this choir to Out & Loud & Proud in Sydney in February 2023 and support the important role they play in their home community.