Free of the agenda of sex (except that A-Spec one)
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About ANOAQA
Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA) is a partnership platform for Asian A-Spec Queer organizations to support each other.
In 2020, ANOAQA marked its official launch, focusing on reaching out to asexual individuals and organizations across different countries in Asia. Building on this foundation, a significant collaborative effort is now underway. ANOAQA is embarking on a major initiative by introducing the first Asian asexual blog to focus “Asexual Landscape in Asia.”

Publish SGBV News of Asian A-Spec
The Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA) has launched a pioneering blog designed to amplify the voices of asexual, aromantic, and agender (A-Spec) individuals throughout the Asia-Pacific. This platform aims to raise awareness of the unique challenges these communities face, such as hate crimes and systemic discrimination, while promoting greater visibility and understanding. Featuring A-Spec literature, educational materials, and a special archive focused on South Asian asexual experiences, ANOAQA’s blog is a vital resource for community engagement, narrative-sharing, and combating misconceptions about A-Spec identities.
At its core, ANOAQA houses the Asia Pacific Aro-Ace Archive—a comprehensive repository of case studies, reports, artwork, films, campaigns, books, and oral histories. This archive not only documents the stories and struggles of asexual and aromantic individuals but also serves as a powerful tool for education and building solidarity across the region.
The Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA) is the organizer of Asexual Pride Asia, a pride event in the Asia-Pacific region that aims to uplift and advocate for asexual and aromantic (A-Spec) queer individuals pacific region. This event is licensed by ANOAQA and hosted by a member organization.

Asexual Pride Asia
Asexual Pride Asia is the largest asexual-led virtual pride network for Asian people. Based in Bangladesh, we got solidarity from 12 Asian countries- Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and Singapore. 7 Asian countries have their ANOAQA ambassador- Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
Asexual Pride Asia is an annual symposium organized by team ANOAQA with the aim of celebrating and promoting A-spec (asexual, aromantic &agender spectrum) pride within the Asian region. Taking place during Pride Month each year, Asexual Pride Asia serves as a significant platform for the A-spec community to gather, connect, and express themselves. The symposium features a diverse range of activities including conferences, seminars, and exhibitions that highlight queer art and culture. By providing a space for education, discussion, and artistic expression, Asexual Pride Asia contributes to raising awareness about asexuality and creating a supportive environment for individuals across the asexual spectrum in Asia.

Asexual and Aromantic Literature
- Publish & Promote Asexual and Aromantic Stories: Showcase literature, films, and theatre that authentically reflect asexual and aromantic experiences, offering meaningful narratives that resonate with these communities.
- Challenge Amatonormativity: Address societal biases that prioritize romantic relationships over platonic connections, advocating for the equal value of diverse forms of love and connection.
- Create a Safe Space: Provide a supportive platform for celebrating the identities and relationships of asexual and aromantic individuals, free from hypersexual and normative pressures.
- Foster Community and Belonging: Cultivate a sense of belonging by amplifying voices and stories that inspire, educate, and connect individuals within the asexual and aromantic spectrum.
- Encourage Inclusive Conversations: Initiate thoughtful dialogues on the diversity of human relationships and identities, broadening societal understanding through inclusive storytelling.

Research and Education on Asexuality
- In-Depth Research on Asexuality: Commission research papers and studies that explore asexuality and aromanticism in the South Asian context. These studies will explore issues such as forced marriages, familial expectations, societal pressures, and religious influences on asexual and aromantic individuals.
- Challenges and Discrimination: Provide detailed reports and analysis on the discrimination and hate crimes faced by asexual and aromantic individuals in Asia. By documenting these stories, the platform will serve as both an educational resource and a tool for advocacy.
- Representation in Media: Analyze and critique the representation of asexual and aromantic identities in Asian and global media, including film, television show, and digital media. The ANOAQA blog will offer commentary on how these identities are portrayed and propose ways to improve visibility and accuracy in the media landscape.

FAQ
What is the A-Spec community?
The A-Spec community includes individuals who identify as asexual, aromantic, or agender. These identities fall under the broader LGBTQIA+ umbrella and focus on diverse experiences related to lack of sexual, romantic, or gender attraction.
How integrated is the A-Spec movement with the larger queer movement?
The A-Spec movement’s integration within the larger queer movement remains uneven. Queer activism often prioritizes allosexual (non-asexual) experiences, which can marginalize the distinct challenges faced by A-Spec individuals, including invisibility, underrepresentation, and unique forms of discrimination. While there have been strides toward inclusion in some regions and communities, the dominance of allosexual narratives frequently hinders the full integration of A-Spec voices.
What forms of discrimination do A-Spec individuals face?
Discrimination includes conversion therapy, medical abuse (e.g., misdiagnosis as psychosexual disorders), forced marriages, marital rape, societal stigma, and lack of safe spaces.
Why has the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) not addressed A-phobia?
A-phobia and the unique challenges faced by A-Spec individuals remain overlooked in global anti-phobia campaigns. This reflects a lack of awareness and prioritization.
What is the purpose of the ANOAQA workshop and its activities?
Train individuals in AroAce-feminist and A-Spec liberation theories.
Produce and disseminate educational materials and strategies.
Build peer support networks and foster global solidarity.
Address intersecting oppressions and service disparities affecting A-Spec individuals.
Why is de-westernizing studies on sexuality and gender important?
De-westernizing studies allows for a nuanced understanding of how sexual and gender identities are performed, narrated, and contested in diverse cultural contexts. It challenges binary frameworks like ‘East vs. West’ and promotes interdisciplinary, inclusive research.
What are the misconceptions about discrimination against Asexual people?
Many believe that asexual individuals face less discrimination because there are no explicit anti-asexual laws. However, societal attitudes, such as labeling asexual men as impotent or denying asexual women protection against marital rape, are significant and pervasive issues.
What is the long-term vision for the A-Spec movement?
The movement aims to achieve global recognition of asexuality and aromanticism as valid identities, equal inclusion in LGBTQIA+ spaces, and the eradication of A-phobia.
For additional resources and support, please connect with advocacy organizations or attend workshops and caucuses focusing on A-Spec liberation.
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