‘We are Normal People’!
Documentary Film – Queer refugees

In this moving film, queer refugees recount, from their own perspectives and in vivid descriptions, their stories of their countries of origin, their journey towards apparent safety, and their arrival here in Germany. Thirty-six different people come together for four days at the Akademie Waldschlösschen and finally find a safe space.

The time spent crying, laughing, dancing and learning together is captured in a powerful cinematic style. Even in this short time, the group finds solidarity and healing. This documentary film about the implementation of the LSVD⁺ project highlights what a culture of welcome in practice can look like. This lived utopia demonstrates what could be achieved with limited resources for a diverse world free from heteronormativity, discrimination and violence.

After the screening, there will be an opportunity to ask questions and engage in a discussion about the film and the complex work of LSVD⁺ on the topic of refugees in Germany. The discussion may also cover the current situation in Germany, including at the political level, and the latest integration project will be presented, which focuses on the arrival of queer refugees in Germany.

Topics such as how integration can be achieved on an equal footing, and how the wider queer community can be encouraged to volunteer more.

About Ina
With over seven years’ experience at LSVD+ Verband Queere Vielfalt Deutschland and as project manager for “Fluchtgrund: queer – Queer Refugees Germany” (until December 2025) and, from 2026, for “Fluchtund Queer – Ankommen in Deutschland”, I have specialised in raising awareness of the issues faced by LGBTIQ* refugees. Through training and educational programmes, our initiative promotes understanding of sexual and gender diversity.

I am the founder of Rainbow Refugees Cologne and co-founder of Sofra Cologne. I spent two years working on inclusion and empowerment projects with young LGBTIQ* refugees and migrants at the queer youth centre Anyway. I specialise in inclusion and awareness projects for queer migrants and new arrivals, as well as in training programmes focusing on LGBTIQ* refugees and new arrivals.

Another area of expertise is violence prevention in accommodation facilities and the dissemination of knowledge on this topic. Over the last 16 years, I have devised numerous innovative project concepts for integration and participation and successfully implemented them for major corporate sponsors and government bodies.

I was 6 years board member and i am since 3 years advisory at Colognepride, the biggest pride in Europe.