This is a public conversation cafe aimed at engaging queer communities, civil society institutions, academics, and policy-makers in a discussion about what a queer approach to/perspective on peace and security looks like.

Based on past successes, this event is organised by Dean Cooper-Cunningham and Jamie J. Hagen. It is co-sponsored by the University of Sheffield and the Centre for Gender in Politics at Queen's University Belfast.

Our aim is to provide a space for those interested in learning more or sharing their ideas about queer approaches and ideas about peace and security.

The ‘Conversation Café’ runs from 13.00 - 16.00 at the Common Press in Bethnal Green, London. The conversation will centre on what queer liberation means for peace will comprise five topics:

(1) Queer peace and the United Nations

(2) Building everyday queer peace

(3) Youth Peace and Security x Queer Peace and Security

(4) Queer peace beyond borders.

(5) Queer-Feminist approaches to peace and security

At 19.00 there will be a small reception with light food and an opportunity to network and continue these important conversations.

Code of Conduct

We are committed to ensuring this event is a safe, open, respectful, supporting, and inclusive space. As queer folks, we are wonderfully heterogenous and this is something we want to celebrate and give space to in a respectful and nurturing way. We are so frequently attacked from outwith the community so when joining this event participants are also agreeing to adhere to the principles set out below.

Interact and engage respectfully

We welcome differences in opinion, disagreement, and opposing viewpoints: they contribute to a healthy debate and lead to more thorough outcomes. However, differing and opposing opinions must be expressed respectfully and without malicious intent.

Be mindful of multiple lived experiences

Participants should strive to engage with others without judgment, presumptions about others' identities, status, or intentions.

Use inclusive language

Pay attention to how people want to be referred to, what their pronouns are, and use inclusive language. Disrespectful language will not be tolerated.

Be conscious of people’s safety

Do not quote, or photograph, or tag anyone in social media without their permission.

Challenge inappropriate or offensive behavior, including, but not limited to, harassment, bullying, verbal violence, LGBTQIA-phobia, classism, ageism, ableism, racism, misogyny, and/or heterosexism. Inappropriate or offensive behavior will not be tolerated.

Actions we are taking to create a safe space:

The event organisers and the associated support team will monitor spoken and written communication, respond to any requests, and strive to ensure the space remains safe and respectful. We will look out for inappropriate comments, sharing of links or other content which does not respect the spirit of the space we seek to foster, and address any inappropriate comments made during the gathering.

How you can help us to keep this space safe:

Your help in identifying actions that go against the above-mentioned principles is welcomed and appreciated. If you experience or witness disrespectful, offensive or otherwise inappropriate behavior you should notify one of the event organizers immediately.

What will we do in the case of a breach?

If opinions are expressed in a less than respectful manner, the organisers will issue individual participants one verbal warning. If the warning is not heeded, the organisers reserve the right to remove any participants from the space.

Thank you for helping us create an inclusive and respectful event for all. In the spirit of participatory community-building, should you see an opportunity to improve this Code of Conduct, let us know what language you believe should be added or amended. This code of conduct was adapted from the Outright International Code of Conduct.

Participant Information Sheet

Consent to Use Information Discussed at Conversation Café in Research Outputs and Publications

Introduction

The Conversation Café Queer Liberation for Peace is not primarily a research event, but there are large parts of the event that overlap with the respective research projects of its coordinators. In this consent form we request permission to use the conversations and discussions that unfold during the Conversation Café (‘Queer Liberation for Peace’) for research purposes and for your permission to include these discussions and the ideas generated in various research outputs and publications.

If you have any questions or concerns at any point, be it before, during, or after, please reach out to Dean Cooper-Cunningham or Jamie J. Hagen. Our contact details are included below.

Principal Investigators

Dean Cooper-Cunningham

dcc@ifs.ku.dk

Jamie J. Hagen

J.Hagen@qub.ac.uk

Purpose of Research

The purpose of this event is to gather information, insights, and perspectives about a queer approach to peace and security from participants involved in the Conversation Café sessions. Some parts of these conversations will inform research that Dean and Jamie are conducting. For this reason, these conversations can be considered part of our research on queer issues in international politics. Parts of these conversations may be included in research outputs such as academic papers, conference presentations, reports, or other scholarly publications.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

All information you provide during the Conversation Café will be treated with strict confidentiality. We will make every effort to ensure your anonymity by removing any identifying information when using your data in research outputs and publications. Your privacy and the security of your personal information will be maintained throughout the research process.

Voluntary Participation

Participation in this event is entirely voluntary. Your decision to participate or withdraw will not affect your current or future relationship with the University of Sheffield or any associated individuals or organizations. You have the right to refuse to answer any questions or withdraw from the event at any time.

Use of Information

Having read this consent information form and subsequently participating in the event, you are granting permission for the use of the information you provide during the Conversation Café in research outputs and publications. This includes direct quotes, summaries, and any other relevant data that is deemed valuable for the research objectives. Your contribution will be appropriately acknowledged in any research outputs or publications.

Benefits and Risks

There are no direct benefits for participating in this study; however, your contribution will help advance knowledge and understanding in the field. The risks associated with participating in the Conversation Café are minimal, as the discussions will be conducted in a respectful and open environment (as outlined in the code of conduct on EventBrite and appended here). If you feel uncomfortable during the session, you have the option to discontinue your participation.

Withdrawal of Consent

You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time without providing a reason. If you decide to withdraw your consent, any information you provided up until that point will be excluded from research outputs and publications.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about the study, the use of your data, or your rights as a participant, please contact the Event Coordinators sing the details above.

Having read this and participating in the event you confirm that you have read and understood the information provided above. You voluntarily agree to participate in the Conversation Café and give consent for the use of the information discussed in research outputs and publications.