To deepen the awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues of non-LGBTQIA+ digital influencers, Intersex Philippines, Inc. (IXPI) hosted a learning session dubbed “Ask me anything about SOGIESC”. Involving 25 non-LGBTQIA+ digital influencers, the event particularly hoped to introduce intersex realities in the Philippine context, thereby empowering these online personalities to become “more informed, vocal, and values-driven allies”.
According to Jeff B. Cagandahan, executive director of IXPI, engaging non-LGBTQIA+ influencers is helpful in creating strategic partners.
“Engaging non-LGBTQIA+ influencers is strategically valuable for us because, we hope at least, once they understand what being intersex truly means, and the challenges and struggles we are facing, they can hopefully help explain to their followers/audiences,” Cagandahan said. “Their support can amplify our message far beyond what IXPI can reach on our own.”
For IXPI, with a combined social media reach of over 4 million followers, “these creators hold the power to shape narratives and shift cultural conversations online.”
Among the topics tackled were: breaking down myths related to the intersex community, and exploring how discrimination impacts real lives.
“SOGIESC inclusion is not just a human rights issue; it’s a shared responsibility,” Cagandahan said. Through honest questions and meaningful dialogue, it was hoped that the participants “reflected on their own influence and how they can use their platforms to create safer, more inclusive digital and real-world spaces.”
