Intolerance and hostility toward LGBTQIA+ people continue to occur in Indonesia. Those responsible range from members of the public to authorities and educational institutions. If you are concerned about your safety, here are a few steps you might consider taking:
- Choose Lower-Risk Environments, If Possible
Get to know your neighborhood and assess how safe it is. If possible, live in a housing complex or apartment with reliable security. Or choose a boarding house or rental that respects residents’ privacy and stays out of their personal affairs. - Minimize Social Conflict
Keep things low drama with neighbors and avoid unnecessary conflict. Stay respectful and on good terms with your landlord and the people around you. Just be mindful of everyday things that can easily cause friction or misunderstandings like noise levels, guests, or general etiquette. - Protect Your Digital Privacy
Pay attention to your social media privacy settings. Protect your phone and digital devices with a strong password. If needed, hide notifications that appear on your lock screen. The key is to control who can see your digital activity. - Prioritize Physical Safety
If you find yourself in an emergency situation (such as bullying, raid, mob intimidation), prioritize your personal safety first. Leave and get to a safer distance if possible. Stay calm and record as proof. If you are being detained or experience violence, contact a Legal Aid Foundation (LBH) or local human rights organizations in your area. - Pursue Legal Action
If you want to, you can take legal action against any intimidation or violence you’ve experienced. Save any evidence, file a police report, and reach out for legal help. We can deal with it together and push for justice through the proper channels. - Help Each Other Out
If you’ve got privilege in terms of your position, money, or anything else, use it to support queer people who need help. Do what you can to help keep our community safe. And don’t be the kind of person who puts other queer people at risk or gets them into trouble.