Reverberate (working title)

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and visibility of trans* and gender diverse people are at the bleeding edge of the “culture wars”. Reactionary trends reflect a disturbing retaliation against DEI, seeking to silence and marginalise minorities. Divided, polarised communities are increasingly unstable. Progressive organisations skilled in navigating sensitive, complex discussions about identity, inclusion and compromise can provide leadership that guides LGBTQ+ orgs and the broader community.

Like choirs, social movements and communities need different voices to sustain harmony. By exploring the process of generative conflict and how to navigate the tensions between tradition and inclusive growth, Reverberate contributes to a paradigm shift in addressing disagreement to solve problems and drive progressive change. Reverberate will spark and guide (with impact tools) productive discussions about identity, belonging, trust and progress within LGBTQ+ communities and broader society.

Short Term Aims
Increase understanding of inclusivity and diversity challenges faced by LGBTQ+ organisations
Enhance appreciation of advocacy, community organising, and belonging
Reduce loneliness and build connection and belonging for LGBTQ+ audiences
Distribute impact resources to facilitate healthy discussions and enable generative conflict (where fruitful)

Medium Term
Policy reviews and implementation of inclusive practices by organisations, corporations, and community groups
Increase LGBTQ+ mental health and wellbeing by reinforcing the importance of safe spaces and community belonging
Educators and community leaders use Reverberate to facilitate exploration of diversity, inclusion, and legacy

Long Term
Greater societal recognition that diversity and inclusivity are crucial and require ongoing participation and protection
Long-term improvements in support systems and mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ communities through increased visibility of their stories and challenges

Reverberate, directed by a Queer man, intends to use a traditional distribution strategy [targeted festivals, boutique theatrical, SVOD and impact screenings] enhanced by strategic partnerships and supporting materials. ‘Special event’ screenings co-branded and cross-promoted with impact partners [extant with ACON and Equality Australia, with community, corporate, union and government orgs to follow] will drive impact priorities: navigating generative conflict; managing tension between tradition and inclusive growth; guiding positive discussions involving minorities].

The primary impact target is progressive groups already embracing DEI discussions; followed by mainstream businesses with DEI obligations. The main accompanying tool is the Impact Screening Kit co-created with peak bodies and representatives with lived experience of the issues. We plan to expedite screenings in rural and remote areas, where LGBTQ+ individuals often face heightened isolation and challenges.

Contextual calls-to-action will vary depending on the strategic priorities of each hosted screening’s co-branding partner [e.g. letters to MPs, petitions, membership drives, constituency-building, MOUs, fundraising] and the socio-political conditions at the time, but the supporting materials kit remains consistent. All screenings include a CTA URL & QR Code slide calling on audiences to join the movement via EDMs (newsletter signup) and exploring the website. Facilitated post-screening Q&As with partner org representatives are the campaign’s foundation. Reverberate empowers audiences to become inclusivity champions by learning how to navigate challenging discussions, co-create solutions, understand a politically fraught issues landscape, be a good ally to others, and self-advocate. Individuals can apply this in personal, professional, community and educational environments. Progress requires momentum, and that movement requires sustained effort and application from each of us.