Homosexuelle Initiative HOSI Wien

The Homosexuelle Initiative (HOSI) Wien has been the largest and most influential political advocacy group for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people, and intersex individuals in Austria since its founding in 1979.

• Political Advocacy: HOSI Wien vigorously advocates for the rights of LGBTIQ individuals with ministers, members of parliament, parties, authorities, the media, and the public. This is done through personal contacts, political events, round tables, panel discussions, and the use of social media[2][3].
• Consultation and Support: The organization offers telephone and personal consultation as well as support during coming out and in cases of discrimination. It refers issues to specialized partner organizations if necessary[3].
• Social and Community Activities: HOSI Wien operates the community center "Gugg" in Vienna, which serves as an open meeting place for the LGBTIQ community. Regular group evenings, film and theater performances, readings, political events, and exhibitions take place here[2][3].
• AIDS Work and Health: The organization has been intensively involved in AIDS prevention and research since the 1980s, including the publication of informational brochures, co-founding the Austrian AIDS Help, and organizing AIDS info months[2].

The main mission of HOSI Wien is to defend and promote the rights and interests of LGBTIQ individuals in Austria. The organization advocates for social acceptance and equality and works closely with other queer organizations and movements. Values such as inclusion, diversity, and self-determination are central to the work of HOSI Wien[2][3].

• International Cooperation: HOSI Wien is a member of international organizations such as the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Intersex (LGBTQI) Youth and Student Organisation (IGLYO) and has obtained consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC)[2].
• Anti-Discrimination and Human Rights: The organization is committed to implementing EU directives against discrimination and advocates for comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation. It was also involved in the founding of the association for the enforcement of the rights of discrimination victims[1][2].
• Culture and Education: HOSI Wien promotes cultural and educational projects, such as the annual Lesbian and Gay Film Festival, theater productions, and educational projects like FLAGincluded[2].

• Foundation and Overcoming Legal Hurdles: Founded in 1979, HOSI Wien initially had to contend with the then "association ban" under § 221 StGB, which was only lifted in 1997[1][4].
• EuroPride 2019: HOSI Wien hosted the EuroPride Parade and the associated cultural festival, leading to historic participation numbers[2].

HOSI Wien remains a central player in the queer movement in Austria, known for its dedicated and diverse commitment to the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ individuals.

• 1 - https://www.homopoliticus.at/engagement/politisches-lobbying/hosi-wien/die-anfaenge/
• 2 - https://www.hosiwien.at/ueber-uns/ziele/
• 3 - https://www.hosiwien.at/ueber-uns/
• 4 - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/HOSI
• 5 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HOSI_Wien