Join us at Pink Ember for a night of poetry readings, art, raffle prizes and food to raise funds for an emergency visa for Jodi.
About Jodi:
Many of you will already know Jodi as a familiar face around Pink Ember; a beloved community member, volunteer and workshop co-facilitator for Khooneh Khaleh.
Jodi came from Iran to Naarm/Melbourne in 2022 to study Arts & Cultural Management. We were lucky to first cross paths with them in 2023, and they have since become an integral part of our big, queer extended family.
Australia is now Jodi’s home, where they can be their truest self as an artist and a gender diverse person.
The reason we are raising funds:
But no visa can last forever, permanent residency is a long game, and if they were forced to return to Iran, Jodi’s well-being and freedom would be at risk due to the current political situation and ongoing instability there.
Jodi is the kindest and most gentle person we know, and we want to do everything we can to keep them here. A temporary visa will be a bridge towards their next study visa; they are hopeful of being accepted into a PhD program, which would make them eligible for another visa for up to 5 years.
The costs associated with applying for a temporary visa are enormous, and an impossible burden for an arts worker in precarious casual employment to carry alone.
What the event will entail:
To help Jodi with these emergency costs we are hosting a fundraiser on Friday 17th of July, 7pm - 9pm at Pink Ember Studio, Coburg North.
Come join us for the evening to enjoy a night of art, poetry, and the chance to win tattoo tickets, ceramic workshop vouchers, artworks and much more.
Details:
July 17th
Doors: 6.30pm
Readings: 7pm
Goodbyes: 9pm
Getting here: (22 Allenby Street, Coburg North)
Parking: Limited street parking is available, with additional spots on French Street
Public transport: Batman Station is a 10-minute walk, or take the #19 tram (6-minute walk)
Bike: You're welcome to secure your bike to the front gate