Havens of Beirut
In Lebanon, LGBTQI+ communities are among the most vulnerable. According to an Oxfam report from 24 June 2021, they have been the most affected by the economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Beirut port explosion in 2020. This succession of crises destroyed most of the safe spaces where communities used to find shelter.
These places had become "social bubbles" where the queer community could meet, away from the crowd, and catch their breath before returning to reality.
Tota
Tota is a bar and cultural venue located in Mar Michael, one of the neighbourhoods most affected by the Beirut port explosion. Opened in 2018, it welcomes all those who identify with the LGBTQI+ communities, as well as artists, activists and allies.
Helem
Opened in 2004, Helem was the first NGO to be dedicated to LGBTQI+ advocacy in Lebanon. It offers various programmes to support these communities in Lebanon: psychotherapy, parties, film club... It is also a place where members can come to spend time and simply feel as themselves.
Depôt-Vente Beirut
Depôt-Vente Beirut is a thrift store next door to Tota. Nawal, the owner, welcomes everyone here. The original place was destroyed by the explosion and has been replaced by this depot.
