Strengthening LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Through Sport, Activity, and Community

ongoing

This Erasmus+ project Strengthening LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Through Sport, Activity, and Community (STRIDE) aims to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals in Slovenia, Croatia, and North Macedonia by addressing barriers to sports participation and fostering a sense of community through physical activity. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals face exclusion, discrimination, and social isolation in traditional sports environments, leading to reduced participation and negative impacts on mental and physical well-being. To counter this, the project will organize four inclusive hikes and a final sports event, creating safe and welcoming spaces where participants can engage in physical activity without fear of discrimination. Each hike will incorporate guided discussions on LGBTQIA+ topics, allowing participants to share experiences, strengthen peer support, and foster a deeper sense of belonging. A research-driven approach, including community surveys, will help identify key challenges and shape activities to better address the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals. The project is led by Out in Slovenija, Queer Sport Split, and the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights Skopje/ LGBTI Support Centre, organizations with extensive experience in LGBTQIA+ advocacy, sports inclusion, and human rights. By increasing access to non-competitive, inclusive sports spaces, the project seeks to improve mental and physical well-being, reduce social isolation, and encourage long-term engagement in sports. It will also strengthen the capacity of LGBTQIA+ organizations to sustain inclusive sports initiatives beyond the project’s duration. Expected outcomes include increased physical activity, stronger community networks, and improved access to inclusive sports spaces, contributing to long-term LGBTQIA+ visibility and inclusion in the region. The project aligns with European priorities on social inclusion, health, and human rights, providing a framework for enhancing sports accessibility for marginalized groups.