It’s been 20 years since the first pride march, and we have sat down with 12 individuals who were present during this pivotal moment.
Make sure to visit the exhibition ‘The First Walk Under the Rainbow’ at the Malta Postal Museum between 6-14 September at the Malta Postal Museum in Valletta. Use the button below to join us at the launch event on September 5th.
Ep 1 – The First Steps with Sonja Casha // L-Ewwel Passi ma’ Sonja Casha
Ep 2 – Advocacy & Support with Colette Farrugia Bennett // Attiviżmu u Appoġġ ma’ Colette Farrugia Bennett
Ep 3 – Safe Spaces with Claire Azzopardi Lane // Spazji Siguri ma’ Claire Azzopardi Lane
Ep 4 – Looking Back with Sandro Mangion // Inħarsu Lura ma’ Sandro Mangion
Ep 5 – Faith and Identity with Mario Gerada // Fidi u Identità ma’ Mario Gerada
Ep 6 – Pride is a Protest with Angele Deguara // Il-Pride hija Protesta ma’ Angele Deguara
Ep 7 – The Way Forward with Marceline Naudi // Il-Quddiem ma’ Marceline Naudi
Ep 8 – Diversity & Cultural Change with Mario Mallia // Diversita u Bidla Kulturali ma’ Mario Mallia
Ep 9 – Education & Dialogue with Louis Galea // Edukazzjoni u Djalogu ma’ Louis Galea
Ep 10 – On Legislation vs. Reality with Evarist Barolo // Il-Kuntrast tal-Leġiżlazzjoni mar-Realtà ma’ Evarist Bartolo
Ep 11 – On Allyship, Privilege & LGBTIQ Asylum Seekers with Maria Pisani // Alleanza, Privileġġ u Persuni LGBTIQ Li Qed Ifittxu l-Ażil ma’ Maria Pisani
Ep 12 – Successes & Milestones with Gabi Calleja // Suċċessi w’Tragwardi ma Gabi Calleja
This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisation Project Scheme managed by The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by The Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector
We’re putting the spotlight on Saskia, a member of our team who has recently completed an A1 Maltese language course at Learning Works. Originally from Germany, she has been actively involved with our NGO for almost a year and was motivated to understand Maltese culture better and to communicate more effectively with everyone involved in our organisation and members of our community.
Given that many of our service users and members are Maltese, she recognised the importance of being able to interact in their native language, especially with those whose English might not be as strong. Starting with simple greetings and personal information, she progressed to more complex topics like directions, formal and informal communication, and an understanding of Maltese history and culture. This was beneficial for her to gain an understanding of the nuances of our language, cultural context and history and fosters better communication and learning with members of our community.
This project has been funded by the Training Initiatives Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).
2024 marks the 20th anniversary since the first Pride March in Malta, and to celebrate it, we are releasing a book and a series of interviews, alongside an exhibition.
We are looking for someone who can proofread transcripts of approx. 40,000 words (with translations, when necessary) in Maltese & English on a tight deadline; excerpts of the transcripts will be part of the book we are planning on releasing.
Eligibility Criteria
Bidders must submit a CV, a quotation (with a maximum bid of €1500 for both languages) including VAT number, while also demonstrating the ability to produce the work being contracted to the high quality being sought.
Intellectual Property
All intellectual property rights belong to MGRM, the respective donors of the materials, and the photography/videography team
Subcontracting
Individuals may propose working jointly with one or more persons given the tight deadlines envisaged. This must be clearly stated in their submission. Bidders are to attach CV’s of each expert.
Following the adjudication, any subcontracting to third parties other than the selected service provider/s needs to be approved in writing by MGRM other than for technical elements such as translations or proof reading.
Bids are to be sent to MGRM on mgrm@maltagayrights.org. For any queries, please contact Robert Attard on +356 99255559. Deadline is 2nd August 2024.
Tentative Project Timeline
Call Deadline Application
2nd August 2024
Contracting of Selected Applicant
6th August 2024
Finalisation of Proofreading
18th August 2024
This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations.
This project reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
Overview The Rainbow Families Network (RFN) is a joint collaboration between MGRM and the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society. This initiative is dedicated to providing a space for LGBTI Families and their children through discussion meetings, informational talks, and informal activities.
The Rainbow Families network is seeking passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Educators to provide their services for children aged 1-5 years during RFN events and activities, usually happening once a month.
Key Responsibilities
1. Childcare Provision – Provide safe, nurturing, and engaging childcare during events. – Ensure the physical and emotional wellbeing of all children in their care.
2. Planning – Collaborate with MGRM and MGFWS to understand event requirements, schedules, and child- specific needs. – Assist in planning and implementing age-appropriate activities for children.
3. Communication – Maintain open and effective communication with MGRM and MFWS Officials – Work collaboratively with the other educators and volunteers to ensure cohesive care and support for children.
4. Safety and Compliance – Adhere to all policies of the network including the safeguarding and GDPR policies. – Ensure a safe environment for children. – Always maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Qualifications and Requirements
Applicants for this position must: (i) be able to communicate in both Maltese and English to the benefit of the service user. (ii) be in possession of a recognised qualification in Early Childhood Education, Child Care, or a related field. (iii) be able to work independently and as part of a team.
(iv) Be able to work during evenings and weekends. Experience working with children with learning difficulties and disabilities will be considered an asset.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV, covering letter, relevant certifications and police conduct by sending an email on mgrm@maltagayrights.org by not later than Friday 19th July.
Note The ratios of children per educator will be smaller than classroom ratios to ensure a more personalised care. This position is on a casual basis; successful applicants will be responsible for paying their own taxes.
Are you interested in photography, local queer history, exhibitions and archiving? Do you have a flair for the interpretation of artwork, audio-visual representation and organising?
If so then we invite you to apply for the position of Curator to help commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Pride in Malta through photos, information and illustration of individuals and history that make up the heart of the movement.
Photographs, interviews and design will all be published in an exhibition commemorating the milestone, which will be taking place at The Malta Postal Museum in Valletta.
Terms of Reference
– To determine, after consulting the MGRM’s team, the content and form of the exhibition.
– Work closely with MGRM to gather content, and suggest new content when needed.
– Keeping in mind the publication, and videos and photographs taken for the exhibition, in order to strengthen the curatorial concept, interlinking the different aspects of the project.
– To bear in mind the context of the exhibition and where it is to be held.
– Coordinate with MGRM’s team and provide critical input to the exhibition project as well as collect key information and media materials.
– Attend openings and assist with set up/takedown, and communicate about the exhibition.
– Attend discussions/talks in order to bring more online visibility to the exhibition
– In this and all of its projects, MGRM prioritises sustainability and would request that choices and decisions made are not detrimental to the environment.
Eligibility Criteria
Bidders must submit a CV, a quotation (with a maximum bid of €1500 for proofreading of both languages)including VAT number, and portfolio with relevant curatorial experience while also demonstrating the ability to produce the work being contracted to the high quality being sought.
Intellectual Property
All intellectual property rights belong to MGRM, the respective donors of the materials, and the photography/videography team
Subcontracting
Individuals may propose working jointly with one or more persons given the tight deadlines envisaged. This must be clearly stated in their submission. Bidders are to attach CV’s of each expert.
Following the adjudication, any subcontracting to third parties other than the selected service provider/s needs to be approved in writing by MGRM other than for technical elements such as translations or proof reading.
Bids are to be sent to MGRM on mgrm@maltagayrights.org. For any queries, please contact Robert Attard on +356 99255559. Deadline is 14th July 2024.
TimeLine of Project
Call Deadline Application
14th July 2024
Contracting of Selected Applicant
16th July 2024
Gathering & Merging of Data
26th July 2024
Presentation of Ideas for Artistic Concept
9th August 2024
Final Draft of Curatorial Plan
23rd August 2024
Printing/Framing
30th August 2024
Exhibition Setup
6th September 2024
This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations.
This project reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
We contacted various local candidates contesting the EU elections, asking them to protect the rights of LGBTI people as future elected members of the European Parliament, by signing the “Come Out 4 Europe” pledge.
The upcoming European Parliament elections will be a pivotal moment for the future of the EU. As we witness the rise of political forces that question or attack freedom, basic fundamental rights and democracy, it is a time when we must all pull together for the Europe we want to see.
Is it just about LGBTIQ rights?
LGBTIQ rights do not exist in a bubble, and apart from intersecting with other groups (disability, age, ethnicity to name a few), LGBTIQ persons should also enjoy other fundamental rights. These include the right to healthcare (general as well as sexual and reproductive healthcare), freedom of movement, asylum, education, freedom of expression, and freedom from discrimination amongst many others. Any work at EU or national level to hinder or roll back any human rights will affect the LGBTIQ community in Malta and across Europe too. Our country is the ‘top’ in LGBTIQ rights in Europe, but our rights can be taken away much faster than they were achieved.
Who pledged to protect LGBTIQ Rights?
24 candidates have signed the “Come Out 4 Europe” pledge.
We are aware that some candidates or their political parties in government have pledged to protect LGBTIQ rights, while they have made comments, proposed or incorporated policies/legislation that negatively impact our community and other areas which affect LGBTIQ persons, such as trans and gender diversity, asylum and reproductive healthcare. We will continue to monitor local and EU level discourse, to hold candidates and their political parties accountable to our community for their work.
Independents
Arnold Cassola, James Ryder Muscat
ADPD (4 candidates)
Sandra Gauci, Ralph Cassar, Mina Jack Tolu, Rachelle Deguara
Volt Malta (1 candidate)
Matthias Iannis Portelli
Partit Laburista (9 candidates)
Thomas Bajada, Steve Ellul, Clint Azzopardi Flores, Claudette Abela Baldacchino, Jesmond Marshall, Jesmond Bonello, Marija Sara Vella Gafa, Daniel Attard, Alex Agius Saliba
Partit Nazzjonalista (8 candidates)
Miriana Calleja Testaferrata de Noto, Norma Camilleri, David Casa, Roberta Metsola, Louise Anne Pulis, Peter Agius, David Agius, Lee Bugeja Bartolo
Who did not pledge to protect LGBTIQ Rights?
Partit ABBA
Ivan Grech Mintoff, Antonia Gauci
Imperium Europa
Norman Lowell, Terence Portelli
Independent Candidates
Noel Apap, Malcolm Bezzina, Nazzareno Bonici, Conrad Borg Manche, Alexander D’Agata, Radu Gheorge, George Grixti, Stephen Florian, Simon Mercieca, Edwin Vassallo, Adrian Zammit
Manifestos of parties whose members signed the pledge
Please note the points below do not reflect the full manifestos, but we are listing keywords that stood out. We encourage voters to be analytical, and compare pledges made with the track record of the party or candidate.
Partit Laburista
Malta first, peace and neutrality, economic competitiveness, climate change, immigration, strengthen connectivity, Gozo, European funds, agriculture & fisheries, future of the EU
European funds, public transport and alternative modes of transport, the environment as a human right, strengthening democracy and rule of law, Gozo, youths, support farmers, herdsmen and fishermen
The environment (climate change, cleaner modes of transport, pollution and more), education, healthcare, mental health, economy, anti-corruption and strengthening democracy, equality and protection of human rights (including LGBTIQ and asylum seekers), AI, freedom of the press, cooperation and peace in the EU, trade.
(Volt is part of a European-wide group with a very detailed manifesto. The below summarises the main points.)
Prosperity of the EU, foreign affairs and defence, green economy, quality of life, anti-discrimination and promoting inclusivity, employment, fighting tax evasion, family planning and inclusive reproductive rights, community social solidarity, mental health, affordable housing, workers’ rights, asylum seeker rights, migration, reform of the EU, anti-corruption, protecting democracy, freedom of press, climate change, renewable and clean energy, sustainability, the environment
Environment & nature (regulating development, access to public coasts, renewable energy, zero plastic, waste collection and more), good governance (rule of law, transparency etc), equal pay for equal work, improvement of minimum wage, youths (investment in sports and programmes, research and innovation, equal opportunities)
James Ryder Muscat’s manifesto is not published, however from statements made in the run up to the election, he is proposing an alternative under the slogan of ‘we’ve had worse’. James has also pledged support for LGBTIQ and reproductive rights.
Notable comments made by non-signing candidates
Partit ABBA
Partit ABBA has made various comments in the past that indicate their leaning to a conservative right-wing approach to politics. Members of ABBA describe themselves and their politics as Christian, which is a position that is largely critical of equal rights for LGBTIQ individuals.
Ivan Grech Mintoff declared on a debate on TVM that he would resign from Partit ABBA and that he would sue the Secretary General of the party for libel. This position seemed to have changed on Thursday 6 June, when Grech Mintoff suddenly promoted Partit ABBA and its other candidate, Antonia Gauci, on his facebook page.
Imperium Europa
Imperium Europa has been described as a ‘neo-fascist’ party, however this claim cannot be clearly confirmed when reading the manifesto of the party. In 2013, Norman Lowell was found guilty of inciting racial hatred.
The manifesto is laden with very neutral language with unclear references to LGBTIQ rights. The only pledge made states that the party is in favour of: ‘Reversing policies based on social construct and recognising the age-old two genders: male and female, while ensuring that homosexual persons are treated equally and with respect.’
Edwin Vassallo
Edwin Vassallo used to be a PN MP up till a few years ago. Having failed to be elected in the latest election, he is now an independent candidate. Vassallo was the only MP to vote against marriage equality in 2017, voted against a gender-based and domestic violence bill in 2018 and in 2019 he famously shared a post in which he warned his followers that someone was ‘injecting fruits with blood containing HIV and AIDS’. Vassallo later apologised for sharing the post. It is worth noting that the HIV virus does not survive outside of the human body. AIDS is a syndrome caused by untreated HIV, so it cannot be spread.
Conrad Borg Manche
Conrad Borg Manche is the mayor of Gzira and previously represented the Partit Laburista from which he resigned in 2023. Borg Manche describes himself as a politician with socialist values. Borg Manche was amongst a group of people who criticised a 2023 EuroPride event in which a drag queen was amongst a line of dancers teaching a dance routine for people including children who voluntarily attended. Therapists specialising in sexual developments debunked the myth, stating that events such as this help children become ‘more tolerant and remove prejudices’
On Wednesday 5 June 2024, Borg Manche declared that if elected he would join the European Conservative and Reformist Group in Parliament. As the name implies, the policies of the group are extremely conservative, and all its members so far include right-wing and far-right politicians, such as Marine Le Pen in France and Giorgia Meloni in Italy.
In a post on his facebook page, Borg Manche shared the group’s position on LGBTIQ rights, seemingly endorsing them. Amongst others, the post stated that the group is critical of ‘proactive politics and laws’ because they promote ‘special rights for the LGBTIQ community, which could discriminate against other groups’. In reply to comments under this post, Borg Manche stated that he is in favour of civil liberties, but then adding that there is an ‘imbalance’ with respect to the ‘family’.
Are you a keen designer with an interest in local LGBTQ+ history?
If so then we invite you to apply for the position of design a book with photography and text of approximately 30 pages, alongside graphics for an exhibition commemorating the 20th Anniversary of Pride in Malta through photos, and interviews of individuals who were present during the first Pride march.
Terms of Reference
To determine, after consulting the MGRM’s team, the content and form of the media
To keep in mind the context of the project
Coordinate with MGRM’s team and provide critical input of the project
The creative liberty of the designer will be respected
Individuals or companies are welcome to apply
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants interested in the position of Book Designer should have:
Experience in editorial design, especially of books
Time Management
Attention to detail
Sensitivity to LGBTIQ issues
Applicants must submit a CV and a portfolio with relevant experience demonstrating the ability to produce the work being contracted to the high quality sought.
Intellectual Property
All intellectual property rights belong to MGRM
Subcontracting
Individuals may propose working jointly with one or more persons given the tight deadlines envisaged. This must be clearly stated in their submission. Bidders are to attach CV’s of each expert.
Following the adjudication, any subcontracting to third parties other than the selected service provider/s needs to be approved in writing by MGRM other than for technical elements such as translations or proof reading.
Bids, of a maximum of €1000, are to be sent to MGRM on mgrm@maltagayrights.org. For any queries, please contact Robert Attard on +356 99255559. Deadline is 23rd June 2024.
Provisional Timeline of Project
Call Deadline Application
23rd June 2024
Contracting of Selected Applicant
26th June 2024
Gathering of all Resources
10th July 2024
Final Draft available to MGRM
4th August 2024
Printing
12th August 2024
Book Launch & Exhibition
9th September 2024
This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and Volutary Sector.
This project reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
International Pride month incoming, so we’re doubling the fun with twice the amount of events. We’re kicking things off with a thrift event that promises hidden gems, followed by another round of our beloved karaoke. Get ready for Refugee Week Malta, an essential celebration of solidarity and inclusion. Sharpen your wits for our Trivia night, where knowledge meets queerness. And we’ll be closing off the month with Queer Rebels Can Dance, celebrating activism, drag and music through an alternative queer night with Moviment Graffitti.
Are you a talented journalist, videographer, or photographer with a keen interest in local LGBTIQ+ history and an eye for storytelling? Or perhaps you have a production company which is interested in collaborating in this exciting project? If the answer is yes, we invite you to join us as we commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Pride in Malta through a photo documentary, and insightful video interviews with individuals who have been at the heart of the movement. The photographs and interviews will be published in a publication and an exhibition commemorating the milestone. Joint bids are also accepted.
Opportunities Available:
Journalist/Interviewer:
Conduct engaging interviews with 10 – 12 activists, community members, and allies who were present at the first Pride march and celebrations in Malta.
Write compelling narratives that highlight personal journeys, challenges faced, and the triumphs that have shaped Malta’s LGBTIQ+ landscape.
Coordinate with MGRM team and the photographer/videographer and provide critical input in the project. Videographer:
Record and edit a series of short interviews with 10 – 12 activists, community members, and allies who were present at the first Pride march and celebrations in Malta.
Create visually stunning videos, and snippets based on the interviews, to be published on social media and through an exhibition
Coordinate with MGRM team and the photographer/interviewer and provide critical input in the project.
Photographer:
Capture portraits of 10 – 12 activists, community members, and allies who were present at the first Pride march and celebrations in Malta, during or following the interviews.
To bear in mind the context of the project.
Coordinate with MGRM team and the videographer/interviewer and provide critical input in the project.
The creative liberty of the photographer will be respected.
Terms of Reference
To determine, after consulting the MGRM’s team, the content and form of the media
To hold/record/write interviews with people who were present or heavily involved with Malta’s first Pride march
To bear in mind the context of the project
Coordinate with MGRM’s team and provide critical input to the project
The creative liberty of the interviewer/videographer/photographer will be respected.
Individuals and/or production companies are welcome to apply
Eligibility Criteria Bidders must submit a CV and portfolio with relevant experience in the respective fields, while also demonstrating the ability to produce the work being contracted to the high quality being sought.
An understanding of the sensitivity around the lived experience of minority groups in Malta is essential.
Selection Criteria
Quality of portfolio presented;
Knowledge of LGBTIQ issues and LGBTIQ affirmative approach
Technical and Financial Bid in accordance to MCVS/VOPS regulations
Budget
Maximum funding available to cover all three positions are as follows, inclusive of VAT: – Photographer €800 – Videographer €5000 – Journalist/Interviewer €3500
Intellection Property
All intellectual property rights belong to MGRM.
Subcontracting
Individuals may propose working jointly with one or more persons given the tight deadlines envisaged. This must be clearly stated in their submission. Bidders are to attach CV’s of each expert. Following the adjudication, any subcontracting to third parties other than the selected service provider/s needs to be approved in writing by MGRM other than for technical elements such as translations or proof reading.
Bids are to be sent to MGRM on mgrm@maltagayrights.org, and should include a quotation. For any queries, please contact Robert Attard on +356 99255559. Deadline is 1st April 2024.
Timeline
Call Application Deadline
1st April
Contracting of selected interviewer/photographer/videographer
5th April
Finalise interviews
31st May
Recording of panel discussion commemorating the 20th anniversary of Pride
5th July
Finalising all materials (videos/photographs/interviews)
9th August
Proofreading of interviews & content for publication/exhibition
16th August
Printing of book
23rd August
Launch of publication/exhibition
2nd – 11th September
This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector supported by the Ministry for Inclusion, Voluntary Organisations and Consumer Rights (MIVC).
This project reflects the views only of the author, and the MCVS cannot be held responsible for the content or any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, within the Ministry of Inclusion and Social Well-Being and the Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement, MGRM is inviting applications for one position of Youth Work Provision of Service to be provided with the MGRM.
The successful applicants should hold a qualification in YOUTH AND COMMUNITY STUDIES at diploma level or higher;
The responsibilities of the Youth Worker include an ability to provide:
A positive social network and safe environment for the young people participating in the programme/s and/or service/s by the Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement;
Holistic personal development opportunities which are empowering and motivating;
Deliver quality youth work services following MGRM’s and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s policies, objectives, standards and procedures;
Engage with young people in leisure and entertainment working areas as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide care and support, informal education and referral to other services where required;
Work as part of a team and collaborate with management and co-ordinators of MGRM;
Keep attendance and participation records of young people attending the programme/s and/or service/s;
Participate in meetings and internal evaluations as necessary at no additional cost;
Provide at least three months in advance, the programme planned including the activities to be delivered to young people, which has to be approved by MGRM;
Ensure that confidentiality is maintained and that data is protected according to General Data Protection Regulations enacted on 25th May 2018.
The successful service candidates will be offered a two-year contract agreement with MGRM for a minimum of six hours monthly, mainly in the evenings or over the weekend and according to the selected candidates’ availability hours mutually agreed and annexed to the contract, to perform duties on a different number of projects that MGRM will be engaged in.
The rate is €15.00 per hour of service delivered [or contact time with young people] if the candidate holds a degree or higher qualification in Youth Work and €12.50 per hour of service delivered [or contact time with young people] for candidates with a diploma, which either rate is inclusive of all taxes and no further fees shall be charged for travelling, preparation for sessions including meetings concerning the programme/s and/or service/s.
Motivational letters, including a Europass CV, work experience, references and certified copies of qualifications and the police conduct certificate are to be submitted to MGRM, 32, Parish Street, Mosta MST 2021 in a sealed envelope or by email to mgrm@maltagayrights.org by not later than 2nd February 2024.
Original certificates and testimonials are to be submitted for verification at the interview.
The Selection Criteria and weightings set for the interview are the following: Knowledge about the Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement and context; Knowledge and Suitability about the post including an understanding of the role and experience; Abilities and Skills including applied learning, communication skills, teamwork and leadership skills and Personal Attributes including motivation and commitment; adaptability and flexibility and personality.
Eligible candidates providing such service will be interviewed by a selection board to assess their suitability for the post.
Applications by post should be sent by registered mail, allowing sufficient time to ensure delivery by the above deadline. These applications will be acknowledged in writing by MGRM within seven days.
Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement reserves the right to reject any or all submissions associated with this call for an Expression of Interest. Late applications will be discarded.
For further information or queries, please email mgrm@maltagayrights.org
