Stronger Together: ILGA-NAC and CARIFLAGS

This conference affirmed the importance of the work we’re doing and gave me the energy to keep fighting for change.

Conference attendee

Earlier this year, in March, ILGA-NAC and CARIFLAGS came together in Barbados to host the “Stronger Together” regional conference, welcoming 78 passionate participants for three unforgettable days of discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, gender justice, and social change across North America and the Caribbean. The energy in the room was palpable as a lineup of inspiring speakers, including Justice Helen Whitener (associate justice of the Washington Supreme Court), Graeme Reid (UN SOGI Expert), Julia Ehrt (ILGA-World Executive Director), and Luz Elena Aranda (ILGA-World Co-Secretary General), led meaningful conversations on the issues that matter most to our communities.

Key Moments from the Conference

Attendees lauded the conference’s insightful and impacting panels and discussions. Whether it was learning from those on the front lines of decriminalization efforts, hearing personal stories from trans rights advocates, addressing mental health and wellness or grappling with religion and faith, the sessions were full of heart and insight. The working groups stood out as well, offering a unique chance for everyone to collaborate, share ideas, and think about how to make real change happen across the region.

This conference reignited my passion for movement-building and gave me fresh ideas for collaboration.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. People appreciated the balance between presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities to interact among partners and peers, saying it was a perfect mix of learning and networking. One participant shared, “This conference reignited my passion for movement-building and gave me fresh ideas for collaboration.” Many highlighted the incredible diversity of voices at the event, calling it “a truly Caribbean-focused experience with a global perspective.”

Areas for improvement, such as enhancing logistics, offering more time for informal networking, and integrating more voices from outside the Caribbean, were noted. However, participants left feeling inspired, connected, and ready to push forward in their advocacy.

For many, the sense of unity and purpose was a game-changer. One attendee said, “I left with a clearer understanding of our region and new partnerships that are already in motion.” The connections made during those three days are already sparking exciting collaborations and new opportunities for synergy.

Impact That Lasts

The “Stronger Together” conference left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. It didn’t just offer a chance to reflect on our work; it gave people the tools and motivation to keep pushing forward. From sparking new initiatives to exploring creative ways to sustain our organizations, the event was a catalyst for action. As one attendee put it, “This conference affirmed the importance of the work we’re doing and gave me the energy to keep fighting for change.”

With renewed determination, participants left Barbados ready to take the next steps in advancing LGBTQ+ rights across the region—stronger, more connected, and ready to make an even greater impact. One of those next steps has resulted in the birth of The Caribbean Regional Gyaff, in May. The monthly virtual meeting provides LGBTIA+ organizations and their allies a space to share information and updates, while exploring  opportunities for partnerships and collaboration.