In the heart of Hamilton, Rainbow Hub Waikato has been a key player in supporting and advocating for the queer community for nearly 20 years. Once known as Waikato Queer Youth, Rainbow Hub Waikato has transformed into a vibrant hub catering to the diverse needs of the rainbow community.
We spoke with Slay, a dedicated team leader with a two-decade journey alongside Rainbow Hub Waikato. Slay reflects on the incredible growth of Rainbow Hub Waikato, sharing, "It's been amazing to see how much we've evolved and the impact we've had."
Rainbow Hub Waikato offers a wide range of services and programs, from social support groups to educational workshops, all designed to build a strong, supportive community. One of their newest initiatives, the whaanau support drop-in, provides a judgment-free space for caregivers, whaanau, and social workers to ask questions and seek guidance. Slay highlights the importance of this service, saying, "We want to create a space where people feel comfortable to ask anything without fear of saying the wrong thing."
Another program they host is "Rainbow Drop in (30 ish) +" which supports older queer individuals who may not feel at ease in youth-focused spaces. Slay points out that the challenges of aging within the queer community are often overlooked, and Rainbow Hub Waikato is committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, feels seen and supported.
The organisation's dedication to intersectionality is also evident in its efforts to uplift Māori and Pasifika queer individuals. Slay explains, "If you're Rainbow and Maaori, you're facing multiple layers of disadvantage." To address this, Rainbow Hub Waikato has brought on Māori and Pasifika staff and created specific spaces like the "Takatāpui and MVPFAFF Plus" community space, where indigenous queer individuals can connect and celebrate their identities.
Rainbow Hub Waikato continues to be a beacon of hope, ensuring that all members of the queer whaanau are supported and empowered in their journey.
Connect with Rainbow Hub Waikato:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainbowhubwaikato/
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