We got quite excited when we discovered IM GLAD or Initiative and Movement for Gender Liberation against Discrimination. Outrage Magazine describes it as the pioneering lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender organization for the provinces of North Cotabato and Maguindanao in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. It was convened by LGBT members of the Young Advocates of Peace and Solidarity and is currently headed by Bagodatu “Bhags” Mabang Zacaria, a Maguindanaon.

Bhags, armed with his trainings on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression (SOGIE), organized the initiative to empower out-of-school youth, students and young professionals. Advocating equal rights through IM GLAD wasn’t easy for the group not only because of misconceptions deeply embedded in their culture and religion, but also that some of the members themselves had to leave to find jobs and support their respective families.

We do hope IM GLAD finds a way to be sustainable and expand to reach more LGBTs in Mindanao. If you want more information or if you wish to donate, reach them at [email protected]. 

To Bhags and team, good luck!

Source: Outrage magazine