Sunday, June 21, 2020

Goodasyou FAQ

  • What is GoodAsYou ?
    • GoodAsYou, started in 1994, is one of the oldest surviving support groups for LGBTIQA/Queer community in Bengaluru/Bangalore. 
    • AGENDA: Open for any LGBTIQA related discussion, personal or public. This is a self-moderating group. FUNDING: This is a self-funded group that runs on voluntary donations collected on the spot. 
    • This is an open space and looks forward to participants creating more avenues for queer people to socialize and build a sense of community. Open ideas that seek volunteer coordinators include groups for sports/games/trekking/travel/cooking/art etc. 
    • For more info, visit: https://www.facebook.com/goodasyoublr or https://www.instagram.com/goodasyou.blr/
  • Q. Where is GoodAsYou?
    • Since GoodAsYou is just a support group, it doesn't have its own office, but our Thursday meetings and most of other activities happen at the NGO Swabhava's office at the following address.
    • Swabhava Trust, Sampengiramnagar, Bangalore, 080-22230959
  • Q. How does one join this group? 
    • Please call up the above number to know the timings of the meetings and walk-in there.
    • For yahoo group, please invite yourself from the yahoo group or mail to goodasyoublr@googlemail.com
    • For facebook group, an existing member can add you or email to goodasublr@gmail.com or message to this facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/goodasyoublr
  • Q. Is there a group for Parents, Families, Friends & Allies?
    • Yes! We have a FaceBook group to encourage a more open discussion between queer people, their families, friends & allies. If you are out to friends/ family and want to help them learn more and discuss things with similar people, please add them to the group
    • The group is at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/goodasupflag/
    • We also organize periodic group meets and will post details as and when such events are planned
  • Q. Is there a similar group for lesbians and bi-sexual women?
    • Although Goodasyou welcomes all the LGBT members here, ASQ Support group is available for all non-cis male queer persons (ASq.blore@gmail.com).
  • Q. Any other similar groups or NGOs in other cities of India?
    • Refer to http://www.trikone.org/index.php/resources/resources#india
  • Q. Are there any Queer/Gay Friendly counselors at GoodAsYou?
    • Counselling support for queer people and their families are available at multiple centres
    • Vinay through 'Swabhava' provides Free counselling: 080 2223 0959.
    • Free E-mail counselling at: sahayabangalore@hotmail.com or goodasyoublr@googlemail.com
    • For Queer friendly Mental health professionals in the city, visit this page: https://goodasyoublr.blogspot.com/2019/06/lgbtq-friendly-mental-health.html
  • Q. Is it safe to meet new people though this group or other online resources?
    • If any profile sends you a private message or request, or a member approaches you in any of the community event such as Thursday meeting or Sunday GRAB, please use your own discretion on engaging/ befriending, Do not assume everyone is good.
    • Also following these guidelines when meeting strangers: http://goodasyoublr.blogspot.com/2015/09/dos-donts-of-instant-dating.html
  • Q. Do you have any information about Safe sex, HIV etc.?
    • Women can refer to this document: http://www.facebook.com/groups/GoodAsYouBlr/511579532238663/
    • Men can can refer to this document: http://www.facebook.com/groups/GoodAsYouBlr/492506824145934/
    • This video gives graphical info about STDs: http://youtu.be/KB2qWT9Jzm0 

  • Q. Is there support available for emergency situations like police caught me or family threw me out of house etc.? 
    • If you are ever in trouble(homophobic abuse, problem at home, police issue or any other issue), call them. They will help you ASAP SANGAMA runs 24/7 crisis hotlines: +91 994 560 1651 to 1654;+91 994 523 1493 
  • Q. Is there legal support available from any lawyers if needed ?
    • Call to one of the following numbers (regular office hours only)ALTERNATIVE LAW FORUM : +91 80 2286 5757 / +91 80 2286 8757 LAWYERS COLLECTIVE BANGALORE +91 80 4123 9130 / +91 80 4123 9131 
  • Q. Do you have any support group for MARRIED GAY/BI people? 
    • Not active anymore. But you are welcome to Goodasyou thursday meetings.