United* by IDAHOT – English programme

In the context of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Intersexphobia (IDAHOT) on May 17, the University of Antwerp, KdG University of Applied Sciences, AP University of Applied Sciences and the Antwerp Maritime Academy once again join forces. At a time when the rights and freedoms of LGBTQIA+ people are under pressure worldwide, we deliberately choose to send a clear message together: within AUHA, everyone has the space to be themselves.

Following a strong first campaign last year, United* returns to our campuses in 2026. From May 4 to May 20, flags will once again be displayed across all our campuses, accompanied by a series of actions that highlight what we, as knowledge institutions, stand for together.

United by curiosity. United by respect. United by creativity.
United by whatever inspires you.

These activities are organized by the various AUHA partner institutions, but they are open to a wide audience. Students, staff, and supporters are welcome to join, listen, and take part in the conversation. In addition, AUHA is also coordinating several overarching initiatives.

New this year is the United Table: a round table that will appear throughout the campaign on our campuses, at City Hall, and in other meaningful locations across the city. Around this table, we bring together a range of voices: students, lecturers, staff, policymakers, and partners. The goal is not to speak alongside one another, but to truly engage in dialogue about what United* means in practice today, what quick wins are possible within each organization, and how we can continue to build an open and inclusive learning community together.

At a time when misinformation is on the rise and rights are once again under pressure, we believe it is more important than ever to develop a shared language, to keep questioning one another, and to sustain meaningful dialogue. The United Table thus becomes both a visible and symbolic anchor within the campaign: a place where listening, connection, and forward thinking take center stage.

19:45 | Queer Film Night (with introduction)
To kick off a period full of activities, we’re inviting you to discover Queer, a bold and moving film that leaves no emotion untouched. With a strong cast and a striking visual style, it’s a film that will stay with you. This initiative by Cinema Cartoons, in collaboration with Timotheus, offers a unique cinematic experience.

AUHA is giving away 20 tickets: request yours via the registration form, first come, first served. Didn’t manage to get a ticket? Email saar.vandenheuvel@auha.be to join the waiting list. If any tickets become available, you’ll be notified.

Organised by: AUHA
Location: Cinema Cartoons, Kaasstraat 4–6, 2000 Antwerp

May 4–18 | Queer Book Swap at Bib Noord
Looking for something new to read, watch, or listen to? Want to make someone else happy with your queer books, films, games, or music? Come swap at the library on Campus Spoor Noord! Open to everyone. Not a student at AP University College? Please register at the reception first. After that, you’ll find the library on the first floor.

Organised by: AP University of Applied Sciences
Location: Campus Spoor Noord, Noorderplaats 2, 2000 Antwerp

15:30 to 18:00 | Talk and conversation with Imran Nawaz (Mr Gay Belgium)
A personal and in depth conversation on the intersection of faith, LGBTQIA+ identity and mental wellbeing. How do you navigate stigma and identity?

Organised by: KdG University of Applied Sciences
Language: Dutch
Location: Campus Hoboken, aula Marcel Lanneer – Salesianenlaan 90, 2660 HOBOKEN

12:00 | United* table at Antwerp City Hall
A key moment within the campaign: Lien Van de Kelder joins representatives from the AUHA LGBTQIA+ community for a roundtable discussion. Different perspectives come together, ranging from policy to practice and from lived experience to expertise.

Language: Dutch
Location: Antwerp City Hall, Grote Markt 1, 2000 Antwerp

13:30 to 17:00 | IDAHOT at ITG: HIV care and stigma
This afternoon brings together personal testimonies, expert insights and practical tools to inspire reflection and action, with a focus on HIV care and stigma. Everyone is welcome to participate and contribute to more inclusive and stigma free environments in healthcare and education.

Organised by: KdG University of Applied Sciences, ITG and Sensoa
Language: English
Location: Campus Rochus, Sint Rochusstraat 43, 2000 Antwerp

19:30 | Book launch: Unwilling to Know
Discover a surprising historical perspective on male homosexuality in Belgium and Europe.

Organised by: University of Antwerp
Language: Dutch
Location: Stadscampus, room C.002, Building C, entrance via Hof van Liere, Prinsstraat 13

18:00 to 21:00 | Ruby’s Quirky LGBTQuiz
Sharpen your pencils and dig into your well-worn pink playlists, because Ruby is here to test your musical knowledge! In Ruby’s Quirky LGBTQuiz, all your favorite queer anthems will make an appearance and you better have ALL the answers right. Expect a show, loud sing-alongs, and above all, lots of fun! See you there!

Organised by: AP University of Applied Sciences
Language: Dutch
Location: Resto Campus Meistraat – Meistraat 5, 2000 Antwerpen

12:00 to 13:30 | Lunch talk on the film El Houb
A warm and open discussion about identity, family and acceptance, inspired by the film.

Organised by: University of Antwerp
Language: Dutch
Location: Stadscampus, room to be announced

20:00 | Café evening
Join us for a relaxed evening of connection, conversation and community.

Organised by: AUHA
Location: Café Den Draak, Draakplaats 1, 2018 Antwerp

Participation in Brussels Pride
A preview of Antwerp Pride in August. Join us in Brussels and help set the tone.
Walk with us, celebrate together and show that inclusion and diversity matter.

Midday | Talk with Petra De Sutter
An inspiring lecture on intersectional feminism, inclusion and social change.

Organised by: KdG University of Applied Sciences
Language:
Location: Campus Zuid

This year, AUHA will once again take part in Antwerp Pride on Saturday, August 8.
Would you like to join us and make a powerful statement together?

Registration via auha.be/united will open soon.