Today we’d like to introduce you to Vee Tahir
Hi Vee, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up queer in a Desi household, I never felt there was a community that truly understood all aspects of my identity. I was too queer for the Desi n community and I was too Desi for the queer community. During the pandemic, I virtually met many other queer Desi diaspora individuals through TikTok. Immediately it felt like the void I’ve always had was finally filled. It felt so validating to be able to share experiences with people who also had similar stories of their own. Everyone shared the same sentiment one way or another. They all felt isolated and were seeking community. I took it upon myself in 2024 to found Queer Desi Social Club, a platform where LGBTQ+ Desi diasporic people could interact, share stories and create community.
Since October 2024, QDSC has been offering monthly virtual events and in person events based in Atlanta. In our short time as an organization we have been able to connect with queer Desi’s globally and provide a safe space for people that haven’t had one in so long.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Launching Queer Desi Social Club has not been easy in the slightest. Unfortunately, homophobia and transphobia are still large issues within the Desi community. Prior to founding QDSC, I’ve received ample amounts of death threats and harassments online for just existing as queer & Desi. Queerness has always existed in Desi history, though it has been wiped away by colonialism. The historical context of colonization has had lasting effects on societal attitudes and treatment of queer Desi individuals.
I knew going into this that QDSC would receive hate. We are in organization based on love and prioritize, safety above all. We’ve made sure to be cautious to avoid catching negative attention. However, we will never be silent. Not only is QDSC a community platform, its also a form of resistance to hateful and harmful ideologies.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am most proud of Queer Desi Social Club for being inclusive in all aspects. Not only are we LGBTQ+ friendly, we also welcome all Desi diaspora. We recognize Desi people come from all over not just South Asia. We’re based in Atlanta, however also we host virtual events, allowing people to join internationally. Our Instagram features day-to-day queer Desi individuals, highlights queer Desi film and literature and also dives deep into queer Desi history.
I think that sets us apart from other organizations because not only are we providing a safe space for people to connect we’re also educating.
How do you think about happiness?
I am a creative at heart. Aside from running Queer Desi Social Club, I am a full-time tattoo artist. I love being able to create permanent art for people and have been doing it for three years now. I love art so much, it’s sometimes a problem. My arts and craft bucket has turned into an arts and craft room. Anything from painting, candlemaking, pottery, you name it!
Pricing:
- Most events are free
Contact Info:
Image Credits
I didn’t provide any images to protect the identities of members. Hope that’s ok.
