Reflextions by Jelena

It was agreed that first Belgrade queer festival be held almost in secrecy but even though it was quite unclear to me what will happen. In Belgrade it always puts in the scope threat from those wild ones and agressive who think that can stop and ruin everything that they consider unacceptable.Just thought for having violence in Belgrade streets again makes huge fear. We always have to discuss security issues. It is always present what will if they... BIGZ buliding, almost abondened, was chosen as a safe place, more by accident because friendly connections. But like metaphore. The long, dark corridors make labyrinths. This makes you to feel primal fear. In the country like Serbia everything older than 50 years is consider tradiotional. Something 180 years old is completely impossible to imagine. The masterpiece of the architeecture between two World Wars today is forgotten graphic collectiv. It is on the margine. But just above , on the roof, new open space and worldwide horizon. Right there, step to the »freedom« for several days people were listening each other, discussing, asking, having fun, making plans at inspiring workshops, learning new skills. All those women coming from abroad already knew that coming here is a new challenge.

It was obvious even at the Female Attack that good spirit, thought that something is done, moved, encouraged was present at least at those who had a chance to enjoy in Lolobrigida girls and Tribade performance. It lasted untill unprepared Belgrade girls came to the stage. It was a time to go home just not to lose that inspiring sentiment. Day after, the last challenge of Belgrade festival- day of the street party! Touching words written on the flyer made postive effect at all those who had been there (invited or by chance, just passing and noticing this small street action). Stop the violence or stop discrimination can be considerd just like words but words that Paula wrote even translated to Serbian , so human and warm made some people cried. All those who felt pain and unjustice or did the same to the others. Food not bombs action provoked lot of surprise and questions.People were dancing, playing. One man said that was energetic release. I cannot forget small boy playing Conni's guittar and just piece of joy and happinees that we can share. No incidents! Even »they« cannot be insolted with something so nice, warm,sponataneous and human.