Media, Power and Sexual Abuse in the Queer Cultural Sector

Journalist Lucette ter Borg, writer Frank Ligtvoet and Gijs Stork discuss the role of media in breaking through structures of abuse within the cultural sector. They address the queer context, in which loyalty, vulnerability and visibility often mix with hidden power dynamics.

Please note that this programme features topics on sexual abuse and abuse of power in the cultural sector.

In recent years, shocking issues have come to light in the Dutch arts and culture sector. For example, artist Juliaan Andeweg and entrepreneur/director Martijn Nekoui were discredited after media exposés and both were convicted. These cases created shock and sparked discussion about the responsibility of cultural institutions. Recently, debate arose over Kehinde Wiley’s exhibition at Museum Van Loon: the world-famous Wiley was accused of abuse, which led to critical questions. The museum decided to let the exhibition – about mechanisms of power – proceed anyway.

Participating in this conversation are three individuals who have worked for years to address injustice and hold the cultural sector to account. The pattern in which young creators are abused by those with power, status, and access is often accompanied by wilful ignorance. Cultural values and promises are exchanged for sexual violence. This evening, organised by Queer Currents, aims to reflect on the position of queer individuals who have experienced abuse and to explore how patterns of power abuse can be broken in order to create a safe culture for all.

Please sign up here.

This event is in Dutch. Admission is free.

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The event may be photographed and filmed. Kindly let us know in advance if you prefer not to have your picture taken.