ESC volunteer for Samtökin78/The Nat. Queer Organisation of Iceland

Samtökin ‘78 is a queer interest and activism association that has existed in Iceland since 1978, giving us our name. Our purpose is to ensure that lesbians, gay, bisexual, asexual, pansexual, intersex, trans people and other queer people are visible, acknowledged and enjoy full rights in Icelandic society, regardless of their country of origin. Our work centres around the fight for equal rights for queer people in Iceland. To achieve this goal, we work to educate and engage politicians, public opinion and serve members of the queer community. Our office serves as a cultural house and a service center, where we regularly hold events, meetings, lectures and art exhibitions. It also serves as a space for support groups and for counselling. Samtökin ‘78 is a place where queer people come for support, to meet other queer people and to have a good time. Our board, staff members and queer activists work to improve queer rights in Iceland through political action, by advising and working closely with politicians and the Icelandic government. The Pride Celebration in August is a time when queer people come together and celebrate who they are. Reykjavík Pride is a big celebration each year, with one third of the nation showing up to render their support. Samtökin ‘78 participates in the Pride Parade each year and everyone is welcome to march with us.