From History to Action: Pride at THUAS

Pride The Hague is more than just an event; it is a movement committed to acceptance, empowerment, and equal rights for the LGBTQIA+ community. This year’s theme, Sharing Stories, highlights the importance of amplifying diverse experiences, listening to different perspectives, and working together to build a more inclusive future. 

At The Hague University of Applied Sciences, students and staff are actively working to foster an environment where everyone can be themselves without fear of exclusion or discrimination. This event is organized by the Inclusion Office, the Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) and The Lighthouse, creating a space to reflect on LGBTQIA+ history, specifically the experiences of LGBTQIA+ people of color, and to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done to achieve true inclusion. 

On Thursday, May 15, we invite students and staff to take part in an inspiring program featuring a panel discussion and a collective action to show how we, as a community, contribute to inclusion. By coming together on this day, we send a strong message: we support the LGBTQIA+ community and are committed to fostering a culture of respect, equality, and solidarity. 

Program

13:00 – Opening & welcome 
Why we celebrate Pride as a university and an introduction to the program with opening remarks from National Coordinator Against Discrimination and Racism (NCDR) Rabin Baldewsingh. 

13:15 – Panel discussion 
A conversation with Demi Vreden, Oskar Oonk and Kai Tjong-Ayong, moderated by Fezco den Haan. Topics include: 

• Which queer stories do we know from The Hague and who has been left out of them? 
• What kind of impact do colonialism and racism have on LGBTQ+ narratives? 
• What role do archives, student activism, and cultural institutions play in preserving POC LGBTQ+ histories?  

14:15 – Commitment wall & group photo 
Write your personal pledge on the Commitment Wall to show how you contribute to a more inclusive university. Join us for a group photo with The Hague Pride flag. 

14:30 – Closing & call to action 
Reflections on the discussion and how we can continue moving forward beyond today. 

 Join us, listen, share, and be inspired. Together, we make THUAS more inclusive! 

Register

As always, it's free for students and staff! Registration opens Tuesday, April 22.

Do you have any questions? Contact us at [email protected] or [email protected].