We are proud to announce a special milestone for JoopeA: the 10th anniversary of our registration in the Netherlands! While our journey began in 2009 in Iran, it was on October 13, 2014, that JoopeA took a bold step forward, registering as an organization in the Netherlands. Over the past decade, we have remained committed to our vision of “making a better future for all*.”
From the start, JoopeA has pushed boundaries, addressing taboo topics through our digital platforms, holding public events, and even organizing protests to bring attention to important issues. Our work has always been about giving voice to the voiceless, shedding light on what matters, and creating space for open conversations.
Throughout the years, we’ve witnessed the realization of many incredible projects, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds, celebrating diversity, and encouraging people to embrace their authentic selves such as Jensiat, JAssist and Iran Pride. At the same time, we’ve had to say goodbye to certain ventures such as Ask and Homophilia, adapting and evolving as needed to stay true to our mission.
JoopeA has always been about community. Our events, whether large or small, have served as moments to come together, exchange ideas, and inspire each other. We’ve continuously provided hope and courage to those who needed it, and through our work, we’ve always aimed to build a sense of belonging.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to remind ourselves that life is precious, and it’s worth celebrating. The struggles, the triumphs, the lessons—everything we’ve experienced as a community has shaped JoopeA into what it is today.
As we reflect on this incredible journey, we are filled with gratitude for the support we’ve received from so many. Together, we have achieved remarkable things and made a difference in countless lives.
Let’s take a moment to celebrate this 10-year milestone, acknowledging the past while looking forward to the future. JoopeA is much more than a decade-old organization—it is a movement, a beacon of hope for many, and a testament to the power of coming together for a common goal.
We look forward to continuing this journey with you, striving to make the world a better place for all. Here’s to another decade of impact, innovation, and unwavering hope!
We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to get in touch, share your thoughts, and let us know how we can improve. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue our journey together.
* When we say “making a better future for all,” we mean creating a better future first and foremost for all humankind, while also striving to extend that care to the rest of the life forms on this planet, as much as we can. We believe that by nurturing the well-being of people, we can positively impact the world around us.
JoopeA, is a not-for-profit foundation on the field of Human Rights by focusing on Queer Rights & Internet Freedom. This group has been established in 2009 with cooperation and participation of number of queer bloggers, queer practitioners, Human Rights activists and professionals as a network of friends. In Oct. 2014 this group was officially registered in Chamber of Commerce of the Netherlands.
We believe in A Free World as our ultimate vision. Thus, our mission is to expand Human Rights by means of technology & social activism.
To achieve our goals, JoopeA has developed many different projects such as Jensiat (knowledge base website on gender topics), JAssist (Assistance to social groups to have their online platforms), IranPride (participation of Iranians & allies in Pride Parades) & many more, each & every focused to expand access to internet, freedom of speech, sexual rights & knowledge.
JoopeA has successfully executed IranPride in Amsterdam Pride Parade through the years 2017 to 2019 before the global pandemic of Corona virus put pause on our plans.
In year 2023-2024 we are re-launching our IranPride program again to participate in Pride Parades around the world with various number of programs. IranPride main objective is to increase the social integration & participation of queer people regardless of religion, language, political view, etc. The short-term objective is to empower Iranian queers, grow the self-steam, decrease the self-shame & facilitate the social engagement.
In the coming days of 2023 & 2024, JoopeA will execute IranPride program in the Netherlands, Canada & USA by joining hand with other local groups to mobilize people to participate in Pride Parades in their cities. Additionally, our online publication will re-start its activities to enrich its database of gender-related knowledge to help people all around the world.
We will ensure that we offer our members the best-customized experience, allowing them to become socially active and informed. We will always ensure that we make provisions to entertain complaints and suggestions from them to better our services as a company in the social sector worldwide. This we will do, with all our might.
JoopeA is non-profit organization & mainly operate by collecting membership fees & donations from organizations & individuals. Every and each revenue of the organization is invested in our programs through the period of two years. The remaining of budget (if applicable) will be transferred in full to another non-profit organization with the same goals in the Netherlands who has the ANBI-status.
Vision & Mission
JoopeA Foundation embodies the beliefs of our platform, which are reflected in the mission and vision statements.
As we believe in A Free World as our ultimate vision, we are committed to expanding Human Rights by means of technology and social activism, focusing on Queer Rights with the purpose of increasing social acceptance. We believe that through our platform’s consultations and profiling, we will provide our members maximum comfort on their way to social acceptance. JoopeA Foundation is dedicated to creating a platform in which people can make new acquaintances with like-minded.
At JoopeA Foundation, we believe there is room for everyone in the social space. We are well poised to become the largest social discovery network globally for Iranians queers and their allies because we have created the best platform to uphold Queer Rights and combat intimidation of rejection. Our insights into the society have given us a great experience, which will help us solve significant social discovery spaces, especially privacy, safety, and security issues. This will enable us to stay ahead of the curve and focus on innovation, leveraging today’s standards in Human Rights fields.
Through years of our activity, JoopeA Foundation has developed many different projects such as Jensiat (knowledge base website on gender topics), JAssist (Assistance to social groups to have their online platforms), IranPride (participation of Iranians and allies in Pride Parades) and many more, each and every focused to expand access to internet, freedom of speech, sexual rights and knowledge.
Target Market
Our platform targets the LGBTIQ+ communities focusing on Iranians and Persian-speaking population.
Strategy Overview
Our first strategy will be directed towards our members. Our platform is just the platform for people of different sexual orientations, gender identity & sexual characteristics to seek networking and friendships with a view to getting social acceptance. As the platform’s administrative network, monitoring the activities of the users, JoopeA Foundation will pay close attention to them and ensure that they enjoy an excellent experience. We will establish ourselves as a clear and viable alternative for our target market. We will stand out as the best and safe platform for them to have the best service experience.
Management Summary
JoopeA Foundation is an Amsterdam-based platform founded by E. Rafiee. Rafiee will be the Director and Finance Manager of the company and will be supported by some other members of the board that will see to the affairs of JoopeA Foundation. They will be saddled with the responsibility of making executive and administrative decisions regarding the operations and functionality of JoopeA Foundation. Their commitment is to oversee and decide what goes on in the business, which aligns with the stated goals and objectives. They will be in full operation devising all means and strategies, putting their entrepreneurship skills and experience in the business world to help JoopeA Foundation achieve its best standard and become people’s first choice.
Personnel Remuneration Plan
JoopeA Foundation shall ensure the provision of the adequate workforce needed for the effective running of the business. The crew will consist of professionals who are ethically versed in the industry. However, as the company expands, the management team looks forward to bringing more hands on deck for efficient service.
In the meanwhile, JoopeA Foundation has a remuneration plan to upgrade volunteers’ and employees’ spirit through education, awards, and remuneration. We would provide periodic feedback to the employees, give space for personal development and guide our personnel to expand their decision-making and other skills through our social programs. JoopeA will provide opportunities for personnel to make decisions in their area of experience and develop their plans and programs for IranPride and online media publications. Our personnel has the full support of professionals throughout their work period in the organization.
Our media outlet editors will be offered online courses and the opportunities to have their columns. The next E-book series plan will be fully run by the volunteers and employees from deciding on the topic to design and marketing.
Our members and personnel will be supported to make decisions and execute their plans, courses, designs, and programs through the IranPride program.
Additionally, JoopeA Foundation will reward outstanding personnel with complementary trips and extra vacation days.
Although JoopeA Foundation has been run by the power of volunteers so far, we would like to offer salaries to our persistent volunteers and employees if the funding become available.
Financial Overview
The current plans of the organization is for the period of two years, starting from 1st Jan. 2023, ending at 31st Dec. 2024.
The total estimated budget of the organization is €92.500 for two years of which more than €63.500 would be invested in social activities and the rest for the online publication & core costs of the organization.
From the budget for the foundation there is a €10.000 is reserved for personnel’s remuneration, awards and education programs.
Although JoopeA’s members were working as volunteers so far, the amount of €305.200 per year is reserved for salaries if the funding become available.
Coverage plan
Our budget are covered through these main sources:
General donation campaigns
Receiving sponsorship grants
Collecting membership fees
Fundraising events
More information
For more information or acquiring more details about JoopeA and ongoing plans please contact us.
As you might hear a lot recently, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be enforced on May 25, 2018. This regulation is known as the most restrict data & user privacy protection in 20years. It forces each and every company inside European Union or those who are in any sort of transaction with EU citizens to not to collect users data or protect them with the regulations in the law. In simple words, European Union is enforcing every entity in the world to respect user’s privacy & to do not allow personal data to be stored or tracked with easy to understand way for users to obtain or and delete their collected data in full.
Where do we stand in this?
We at JoopeA believe that these regulations are necessary and even should be enforced earlier than this.
It wasn’t difficult to implement GDPR in JoopeA since we were keen to not to be involved with users’ personal data from the beginning. However, there were parts that needed modification. This is the reason behind our recent updates in our Privacy Policy. Please read these terms that are explained in an easy summary and the advanced Full Description here:
Just to clarify more, these are the data that might be collected while you are visiting JoopeA’s websites or using it’s services including but not limited to this website, JNews or JAssist:
– Direct data collection
We don’t collect or process your personal data with exception of emails & forms that you deliberately fill out such as comments, Pride registration, direct contact to editorial or newsletter sign up. The forms collect your IP along with your data to protect us against threats & spams but nothing more. You are entitled to remove you data at any time by requesting from contact us form or sending email to [email protected].
– Third parties data collection
We use services of Cloudflare, Mailchimp, Bit.ly, etc. and some of Google services such as Youtube, Analytics, AdWords, AdSence and G-Suite for Business. We have blocked all personal-level data in all these services. However, they usually collect public data such as location (regional level), browser brand & version, Operating System & it’s version, etc.
We have replaced many services to protect user data and kept those who claim their alignment with GDPR. But if you like to read more about the third party services data collection, please read the full Privacy Policy description.
We wish you secure and data protected internet surfing experience… Always!
When filling a form for specific activities such as Pride registration, commenting or signing up for newsletters, beside the info that you provide deliberately in the form, we save your IP. This IP is saved only for spam detection and is not being used in any other way. We strongly recommend to use secure VPN always to mask your IP.
Our websites store Cookies in your browser history. This Cookies are used for spam filtering. However, it’s possible that other harmful tools such as Malwares, data collectors, Security Services or even hackers get advantages of this Cookies to know that you visited our websites. We strongly recommend to set your browser to delete history automatically by every close.
Third party services such as Google Analytics, Cloudflare DDoS protection, etc. do save your general data such as region, browser brand and version, operating system, time of visit, etc. although we tightened their hands as mush as possible to not to include any personal data. The data these services stores is explained below.
Full Description
This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which Stichting JoopeA websites (incl. this one) collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a “User”) of the JoopeA’s website (“Site”).
Personal identification information
We may collect personal identification information from Users in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, when Users visit our site, fill out a form, respond to a survey, and in connection with other activities, services, features or resources we make available on our Site. Users may be asked for, as appropriate, name, email address. Users may, however, visit our Site anonymously. We will collect personal identification information from Users only if they voluntarily submit such information to us. Users can always refuse to supply personally identification information, except that it may prevent them from engaging in certain Site related activities.
Non-personal identification information
We may collect non-personal identification information about Users whenever they interact with our Site. Non-personal identification information may include the browser name, the type of computer and technical information about Users means of connection to our Site, such as the operating system and the Internet service providers utilized and other similar information.
Web browser cookies
Our Site may use “cookies” to enhance User experience. User’s web browser places cookies on their hard drive for record-keeping purposes and sometimes to track information about them. User may choose to set their web browser to refuse cookies, or to alert you when cookies are being sent. If they do so, note that some parts of the Site may not function properly.
How we use collected information
JoopeA may collect and use Users personal information for the following purposes:
To run and operate our Site
We may need your information display content on the Site correctly.
To improve our Site
We may use feedback you provide to improve our products and services.
To run a promotion, contest, survey or other Site feature
To send Users information they agreed to receive about topics we think will be of interest to them.
To send periodic emails
How we protect your information
We adopt appropriate data collection, storage and processing practices and security measures to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure or destruction of your personal information, username, password, transaction information and data stored on our Site.
Sharing your personal information
We do not sell, trade, or rent Users personal identification information to others. We may share generic aggregated demographic information not linked to any personal identification information regarding visitors and users with our business partners, trusted affiliates and advertisers for the purposes outlined above. We may use third party service providers to help us operate our business and the Site or administer activities on our behalf, such as sending out newsletters or surveys. We may share your information with these third parties for those limited purposes provided that you have given us your permission.
Electronic newsletters
If User decides to opt-in to our mailing list, they will receive emails that may include company news, updates, related product or service information, etc. If at any time the User would like to unsubscribe from receiving future emails, we include detailed unsubscribe instructions at the bottom of each email or User may contact us via our Site. We may use third party service providers to help us operate our business and the Site or administer activities on our behalf, such as sending out newsletters or surveys. We may share your information with these third parties for those limited purposes provided that you have given us your permission.
Third party websites
Users may find advertising or other content on our Site that link to the sites and services of our partners, suppliers, advertisers, sponsors, licensors and other third parties. We do not control the content or links that appear on these sites and are not responsible for the practices employed by websites linked to or from our Site. In addition, these sites or services, including their content and links, may be constantly changing. These sites and services may have their own privacy policies and customer service policies. Browsing and interaction on any other website, including websites which have a link to our Site, is subject to that website’s own terms and policies.
Advertising
Ads appearing on our site may be delivered to Users by advertising partners, who may set cookies. These cookies allow the ad server to recognize your computer each time they send you an online advertisement to compile non personal identification information about you or others who use your computer. This information allows ad networks to, among other things, deliver targeted advertisements that they believe will be of most interest to you. This privacy policy does not cover the use of cookies by any advertisers. You may learn more about opting out of major ad networks at https://websitebuilders.com/tools/advertiser-opt-out/.
Google Adsense
Some of the ads may be served by Google. Google’s use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to Users based on their visit to our Site and other sites on the Internet. DART uses “non personally identifiable information” and does NOT track personal information about you, such as your name, email address, physical address, etc. You may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html
Changes to this privacy policy
JoopeA has the discretion to update this privacy policy at any time. When we do, we will post a notification on the main page of our Site. We encourage Users to frequently check this page for any changes to stay informed about how we are helping to protect the personal information we collect. You acknowledge and agree that it is your responsibility to review this privacy policy periodically and become aware of modifications.
Your acceptance of these terms
By using this Site, you signify your acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree to this policy, please do not use our Site. Your continued use of the Site following the posting of changes to this policy will be deemed your acceptance of those changes. This privacy policy was built the web’s favorite privacy policy generator.
Contacting us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, the practices of this site, or your dealings with this site, please contact us.
Change Logs:
This document was last updated on April 28, 2018
On behalf of Persian-speaking community in the Netherlands and around the world, specially those who are suffering the situation inside the country of Iran, we thank you for your contribution.
JoopeA foundation and all its projects such as JAssist, JNews & others are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for discussing issues related to freedom of expression and Human Rights.
We encourage all participants to approach the foundation with open and positive attitudes, and to engage constructively with others at all times. It is vital that discussions include many different opinions and experiences, so we do not tolerate any kind of harassment.
We will take action in response to harassment related to national origin, gender, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical characteristics, disability, religion, and age.
Guide to Communication
JoopeA Foundation is an international, multidisciplinary not for profit organization. There will be people speaking multiple languages and using terms from various fields of study. English will often be the language we are using, and people who are fluent English speakers will have an advantage over less fluent English speakers. Persian would be our second common language as JoopeA Group has been raised from Iran originally. JoopeA’s member can provide information in Dutch too.
We encourage all participants to approach the event with open and positive attitudes, and to engage constructively with others at all times.
Harassment may occur online or in person. Examples of unacceptable behaviors include:
Verbal comments that reinforce oppression related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, age or religion (or lack thereof);
Imitating or making fun of accents or grammatical errors, or giving unsolicited grammar corrections (but clarifying questions are fine);
Verbal threats or demands;
Intimidation;
Stalking;
Harassing photography or recording;
Sustained disruption of sessions or events;
Unwelcome physical contact;
Unwelcome drugging food or drink;
Violating the conference privacy policy in order to attract negative attention to an attendee;
Enlisting the help of others, whether in person or online, in order to target an attendee;
Advocating for or encouraging any of the above behavior.
Let someone leave a conversation that makes them uncomfortable, and do not follow people who asked to be left alone. If you discuss difficult topics that may be traumatic for participants, provide warnings so people may leave a conversation or plan coping strategies.
Participants who are asked to stop harassing behaviors are expected to cease immediately. Depending on severity of harassment or repeat offenses, JoopeA staff will respond appropriately, including but not limited to giving warnings or expulsion from the foundation. With the consent of the person being harassed, local authorities will be informed if needed.
We count on everyone – from partner organizations to individuals – to do their part to ensure positive experiences for all members. If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is being harassed, or have any other concerns, please contact a member of JoopeA management team immediately.
Incident Response
The following individuals are form the JoopeA Code of Conduct Incident Response:
All reports are confidential. You will not be asked to take actions that make you feel unsafe. Foundation members will be happy to assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe.
JoopeA foundation is trying it’s best to make the world a better. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at anytime for any misconduct.
JoopeA Foundation is an international, multidisciplinary not for profit organization. There will be people speaking multiple languages and using terms from various fields of study. English will often be the language we are using, and people who are fluent English speakers will have an advantage over less fluent English speakers. Persian would be our second common language as JoopeA Group has been raised from Iran originally. JoopeA’s members can provide information in Dutch too.
We encourage all participants to approach the event with open and positive attitudes, and to engage constructively with others at all times.
Together, we can make sure that we don’t miss out on valuable insights from our amazing participants:
1. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
2. Be an active listener, and be patient with people who are speaking their second language.
3. Avoid jargon. Assume that people don’t use the same terms, and explain them.
4. Address the idea, don’t attack the person.
5. Disagreements happen; it’s okay to walk away from a conversation that isn’t fruitful or is becoming tense.
6. Your personal choice of technology doesn’t fit all users’ needs. There is space for different devices, software, tools, operating systems, programming languages, and licenses. Focus discussions on tools, whether closed source and commercially supported or open source, on the needs of users.
7. If you do not like a solution someone else is proposing, explain why, and state an alternative.
8. If you aren’t having success on your own, ask for help from the session leader if you are in a session.
Please don’t hesitate to report any misbehavior to [email protected]
It’s nothing new that JoopeA has been active in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Intersex & Queer (LGBTIQ) Rights since beginning.
But sometimes, it’s good it to go through our history and introduce the activities that has been done in our long run.
JoopeA has been established in 2009 in Iran. Unfortunately, restrictions of Iranian Government against LGBTIQ and generally all social activists, made us to work underground for a better society in Iran. Yet, it didn’t stopped us from connecting to our fellow activist groups. JoopeA was one of the first Iranian organizations which became part of ILGA from inside Iran. Below is the certificate of membership from ILGA:
JoopeA has been registered officially in October 2014 in the Netherlands.
There are many many bright & creative ideas here in JoopeA Foundation waiting for an opportunity to shine. But as now, here is a list of projects that came to life so far:
IranPride – Iran in Pride Parades in favor of increasing Iranian LGBTIQ visibility
Homophilia Campaign – Say yes to love & no to hate
JAssist – Assists groups, individuals & small organizations to have their web platform risk free
Ask Your Sexual Questions – A reliable source for Persian community to get access to personal answers about sex
Rainbow Calendar – A Persian calendar with all LGBTIQ events
JNews – Reliable source to read about Sexual Rights topics in Persian
Security & safety are most important elements in our work. This is why some other projects are not listed here.
