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!

Do you like our work? Consider donating to support our work:

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.

Warm Regards,
E. Rafiee
Director

* 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.

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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:

Privacy Policy

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 info@joopea.com.

– 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!

Summary

JoopeA Foundation and all it’s projects are aligned with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We do not save, track nor compile users data except:

• 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, Yandex or Microsoft search, 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

If you live in the Netherlands, if you are a Persian speaker or if you only come to Amsterdam to enjoy Amsterdam Canal Pride parade 2017, we are here for you and we are here to offer you the useful and wonderful information about fantastic events in that time.

JNews has started a new section to publish about events in the Netherlands on Sexual Rights for Persian-speaking people.

You can follow Facebook page, Telegram channel or just visit the section on JNews website.

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.

You are awesome and we love you!

JoopeA foundation and all its projects such as JAssist & others are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for discussing issues related to freedom of expression and Human Rights.

It’s our culture to welcome all participants and approach them with open and positive attitudes, and to engage constructively with them 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. 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.

Please see our full Guide to Communication for details and guidelines.

Harassment

Harassment may occur online or in person. Examples of harrassing behaviors include:

1. 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);
2. Imitating or making fun of accents or grammatical errors, or giving unsolicited grammar corrections (but clarifying questions are fine);
3. Verbal threats;
4. Intimidation;
5. Stalking;
6. Harassing photography or recording;
7. Sustained disruption of sessions or events;
8. Unwelcome multiple physical contacts;
9. Unwelcome/unauthorized drugging food or drink;
10. Violating the conference privacy policy in order to attract negative attention to an attendee;
11. Enlisting the help of others, whether in person or online, in order to target an attendee;
12. 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 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:

Raham Rafiee – rafiee@joopea.com (male)

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.

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. 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.

Please see our full Code of Conduct for more information.

Guidelines

Together, we can make sure that we don’t miss out on valuable insights from our amazing participants. These are how our staff should communicate*:

1. Speaking clearly and at a moderate pace.

2. Being an active listener, and being patient with people who are speaking their second language.

3. Avoiding jargon. Assuming that people don’t use the same terms, and explain them.

4. Address the idea, don’t attack the person.

5. Disagreements might happen; it’s best practice to respectfully walk away from a conversation that isn’t fruitful or is becoming tense.

6. Personal choices of technology might not fit all users’ needs. There is space for different devices, software, tools, operating systems, programming languages, and licenses. Focusing on 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 during the session, explain why, and state an alternative. We don’t stop others from having their sessions just because it doesn’t fit in our taste.

8. If you aren’t having success on your own, ask for help from more professional participant in the session.

Please don’t hesitate to report misbehaviors to info@joopea.com

_{* P.S.: These are general communications guidelines within groups. Exceptions may apply.} 

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.

For more information, please visit About Us page or contact us.

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:

Security & safety are most important elements in our work. This is why some other projects are not listed here.