Why are we still on Meta?
03 March 2025
The radical changes in diversity and inclusion policies as well as the end of moderation on social networks in the United States worry us. As LGBTQIA+ people and as people responsible for organising a festival for our community, we are aware of our responsibility and the importance of our choices.
After reflection within our team, we have decided to continue to communicate on Meta. Not in agreement with these abusive and repressive policies and their repercussions, but because leaving reinforces the invisibility of our community throughout the world. The slogan of our festival, ‘Let your heart be heard’ invites LGBTQIA+ singers to make their voices heard in favour of a more fair and inclusive society. We will make our voices heard by singing, but also by communicating on Meta about this event that celebrates the talents and diversity of our community.
By continuing to make our voices heard on Meta, we are also expressing our solidarity with our American friends, especially the trans people who are suffering from these discriminatory policies (seven American choirs are registered for the festival). We want to tell them that the Various Voices 2026 festival stands with them and that our gathering in Brussels will be a response to those who want to erase us. We will not leave, not from Meta nor anywhere else. We have our place, we will take it and continue to fight against the darkness that threatens.