August 31st, 2023Train to become a rainbow community angel

Locals are being offered the opportunity to become Rainbow Community Angels to enable them to take part in peaceful actions to support community safety at LGBTIQA+ inclusive events with a special training event happening in Kyneton this Saturday.
In partnership with Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, the Rainbow Community Angels, a Victorian community-led safety initiative, are delivering training in Kyneton to the LGBTIQA+ community and allies.

Participants will learn how to shield and protect the LGBTIQA+ community, including young people, local council, business owners and venue staff should protesters attend LGBTIQA+ activities and events.
Talking about why it was important to provide this training, Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program worker Belinda said: “The Rainbow Community Angel training builds hope and resilience in our community, empowering us to stand together in solidarity as a community and allies in support of LGBTIQA+ events.”
Rainbow Community Angels work with event organisers and venue staff to increase event safety through a peaceful, supportive and highly visible presence.
They have experience working with local councils, libraries and youth organisations to support the safe passage of attendees to and from the scheduled activities. The Rainbow Angels have formed in response to an increased presence of anti-trans and anti-drag activity in the community which has led to a series of event cancellations.
“By training to be Rainbow Angels, we can turn some of that anger and hate into love, kindness and community,” Belinda said. “It’s about working together and finding a structure to support each other and ensure inclusive events continue to go ahead.”
The upcoming Rainbow Community Angels training will be held in Kyneton this Saturday, September 2 from 10am to 1pm. The training is free, but registration is essential at www.sunburycobaw.org.au/rainbow-community-angels. Those living in Central Victoria and Sunbury will be prioritised for this training opportunity.
For more information about this event or Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health’s LGBTIQA+ programs, contact WayOut or CLIP on 5421 1666/ healthpromotion@scchc.org.au.
*If this article has raised any concerns, Qlife offers support for LGBTIQA+ people from 3pm to midnight – call or webchat 1800 184 527.