Queer Stories: The Hague City Walk

The route takes in both well-known and lesser-known places for queer people: past the International Gay Monument – how did it come to be there, and what is the significance of its design? The Haagse Bos – what encounters took place there between men and boys? You’ll seek out the now-defunct bars and dance halls where gay men and lesbian women used to go out from the 1960s and 1970s onwards. Among other things, you’ll learn how they dealt with Section 248bis of the law, which prohibited sexual contact between adults (then aged 21 and over) and minors of the same sex. You’ll also hear about the organisations set up specifically for queer women and men of colour. Forty years ago, they were already campaigning against racism and discrimination against the queer community. The tour naturally also highlights the struggle for emancipation that took place in and from The Hague. As well as the stories from The Hague, the tour organisers would love to hear your stories too! You can share your story with the group and get to know the other participants as you walk.