In the fifth installment of our PLUSS project series, we turn our attention to Out In Slovenija, a pioneering sports association committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals to engage in sports and recreational activities. Founded in 2010, this grassroots organization has played a vital role in promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for the LGBTQIA+ community in Slovenia, while also championing inclusivity at the national and international levels.
A Brief History: From Grassroots to Advocacy
Out In Slovenija's roots trace back to 2001 when its community first began coming together through sports. However, it was in 2010 that the organization officially registered as a sports association, and since then, it has worked tirelessly to provide a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies. The organization operates on a bottom-up approach, with its activities driven by the needs and desires of the queer community.
In recent years, Out In Slovenija has expanded its focus to include advocacy efforts, aiming to influence policy and create lasting change in the Slovenian sports landscape. The organization is actively involved in the development of a national LGBTQIA+ strategy in Slovenia, which will address important issues, including the need for more inclusive sports policies.
Mission and Impact: Creating a Safe Haven for LGBTQIA+ Athletes
The core mission of Out In Slovenija is to provide a space where LGBTQIA+ individuals can participate in a wide range of sports and recreational activities. These range from social events and hiking to self-defense classes, dance, badminton, and more. The organization aims to foster physical well-being, social connections, and a sense of belonging within the community.
Out In Slovenija's importance cannot be overstated, particularly given that it is the only broad LGBTQIA+ sports organization in Slovenia. Its work has not only helped improve the health and wellness of its members but has also been crucial in combatting homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of discrimination in mainstream sports.
Despite the significant progress made, challenges persist. According to data from the Slovenian Olympic Committee, as of 2024, only two out of over 1,360 high-ranking athletes have publicly come out as LGBTQIA+. This stark reality underscores the importance of Out In Slovenija's work, as many queer athletes continue to struggle with being open about their sexual orientation and gender identity in the competitive sports world.
Advocating for Change: Breaking Barriers in Mainstream Sports
Out In Slovenija's impact extends beyond recreational activities. The organization is also a leading voice in advocating for more inclusive and equitable sports policies. The 2019 OutSport survey revealed that nearly 90% of LGBTQIA+ respondents reported experiencing homophobia and transphobia in sports, and a shocking 20% refrained from participating in sports altogether because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
This reality is why Out In Slovenija is pushing for change—not only in the attitudes of the general public but also within institutional structures. The organization is working with decision-makers to advocate for reforms that will make sports institutions more inclusive and LGBTQIA+ friendly. Their efforts are contributing to a broader societal shift that will eventually allow LGBTQIA+ individuals to feel comfortable and supported in all aspects of their athletic lives.
Building Inclusivity: The Importance of Representation
One of Out In Slovenija’s key goals is to increase the representation of FLINTA (female, lesbian, intersex, non-binary, transgender, and agender) individuals within their organization, especially in decision-making positions. To accomplish this, the association has focused on providing more FLINTA-friendly sports activities and has worked diligently to promote their dedication to inclusivity.
In addition to offering diverse sports programs, Out In Slovenija has also prioritized outreach and communication to ensure that their message of inclusivity reaches a broad audience. Social media, particularly Instagram and Facebook, serves as the primary platform for promoting events and activities, while the organization is also active in Facebook groups and maintains an info-mailing list. These efforts are supported by their membership in various Slovenian and international sports federations, including the EGLSF and the Sport Union of Slovenia.
Out In Slovenija also collaborates with other queer organizations to increase their outreach and connect with marginalized communities. By engaging in roundtables, social events, and other activities, the organization works to reach a wider audience and create an environment where all LGBTQIA+ individuals feel safe, valued, and welcomed.
The Future: More Sports, More Advocacy, More Inclusion
Looking ahead, Out In Slovenija is committed to expanding its reach and further diversifying its membership base. The organization plans to introduce more sports and recreational activities to cater to a wider range of interests and abilities, and it is particularly focused on increasing engagement with marginalized groups. Another key priority is expanding their advocacy efforts, both within Slovenia and at the European level.
In addition to advocacy, the organization envisions hosting more "Queer Sports Camps" that focus on fun and recreation rather than competition. These camps aim to provide safe spaces for individuals who have had negative experiences with mainstream sports or have been traumatized by past encounters. By de-emphasizing competition and emphasizing enjoyment, Out In Slovenija hopes to engage even more members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Creating Safer Spaces: Prioritizing Transgender and Non-Binary Inclusion
Out In Slovenija is also deeply committed to creating safer spaces for transgender, intersex, and non-binary individuals in sports. While challenges remain, particularly in regard to inadequate sports facilities (such as changing rooms and showers), the organization works both at an advocacy level and in practice to make improvements. For instance, some facilities allow members to reserve multiple changing rooms to ensure privacy and comfort for individuals whose gender identity may not align with the facility’s typical setup.
The organization has also implemented clear guidelines for respectful behavior and provides training for staff and members on issues related to gender identity and expression. By creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued, Out In Slovenija is taking concrete steps toward a more inclusive and welcoming sports culture in Slovenia.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Change
As Out In Slovenija moves forward with its strategic plan for 2024-25, the organization invites all stakeholders—whether athletes, advocates, or allies—to join them in their mission to build a more inclusive sports culture. Collaboration with other organizations and active participation in future events will be essential in making a lasting impact.
Together, we can create a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive sports environment in Slovenia—one that celebrates the rights of all athletes, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Join Out In Slovenija in making a difference—get involved today and help us shape a more inclusive future for LGBTQIA+ athletes everywhere.
For more information on how you can contribute, follow Out In Slovenija on Instagram and Facebook or reach out directly to learn how you can participate in their upcoming events and initiatives.
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