Diversity in Focus
The Varia Suisse association aims to improve networking and exchange among families, individuals with congenital variations of sex characteristics, and professionals.
We aim to raise awareness, educate, and disseminate knowledge on the topic of sex variations within society. The stance of the Varia Suisse association should resonate beyond the organization, fostering openness toward individuals with variations in gender variations.
Inclusion seeks commonalities rather than emphasizing differences. Through an inclusive approach, we aim to challenge and reshape society’s stereotypical notions of gender. People should not be confined to rigid categories like male or female; they should be accepted as they are. Our goal is to destigmatize the topic of variations in gender variations.
Code of conduct
1. Language and Discourse
Language can hurt. The right to self-identify one’s own variation of sex characteristics is inviolable. For this position paper, we have chosen a neutral, non-judgmental term and use the designation «variation of sex characteristics.» This reflects the principle that every person is treated with openness, respect, and appreciation.
2. Vision and Goals
We envision a Switzerland where congenital variations of sex characteristics are not viewed as illnesses in everyday consciousness. Decisions regarding medical or therapeutic treatments should be guided by the child’s well-being and self-determination. Such treatments should be medically indicated and desired by both children and parents. Variations of sex characteristics have always existed. In this sense, we aim to inform, raise awareness, and educate society. All people should be accepted as they are, regardless of their biological sex characteristics. Therefore, our goal is to make gender diversity a self-evident reality in the future.
3. Values and Self-Conception
We see ourselves as a politically, institutionally, structurally, and ideologically independent interest group, equipped with experience and expertise. We advocate for the recognition of the suffering that some individuals with variations of sex characteristics have experienced, both historically and today, due to past practices. We aim to realize our values and goals within a flexible community of interest that enables equal exchange, collaboration, and interaction on an equal footing. This community should connect various topics with different perspectives, experiences, services, and areas of interest. To balance state and medical actions, we collaborate with all interested individuals and institutions.
We aim to promote, support, and, where possible, ensure the following:
· The needs of individuals with congenital variations of sex characteristics
· Awareness-raising and education for society, schools, and professional development in the medical and healthcare sectors
· Diverse peer support services for people with congenital variations of sex characteristics and their families, especially external hospital support for parents
· Accessible, high-quality medical, psychological, and social care, particularly after reaching adulthood
· Engagement with those affected by excessive restrictions on their rights, both in the past and present
· Coordination, networking, and exchange for people with congenital variations of sex characteristics and their families
· Collaboration between medical practices and other actors, institutions, and interested members of civil society
· Joint research with peer groups
· Lobbying for intersex children or children with congenital variations of sex characteristics and their families, e.g., through public statements
We are aware that medical interventions concerning children’s biological sex require careful evaluation. The interpretation of the child’s best interests by the law and medicine remains a controversial issue. Nevertheless, we seek to address these questions and engage in the discourse. Ethically and medically binding guidelines are therefore an important concern for us. The position paper of our interest group is regularly reviewed and updated.
Working Groups:
Varia Suisse Peer Exchange
Our working group aims to promote contact between people with variations of sex characteristics (VdG) and their families. The goal is to create opportunities for exchanging experiences and solutions to challenges while fostering a shared sense of awareness. To achieve this, we plan to organize various offerings and activities designed to engage different groups of those affected.
Varia Suisse Sexual Health/Education/Teaching
Varia Suisse Urologie
This working group consists of pediatric urologists from across Switzerland who specialize in variations of sex characteristics and are part of interdisciplinary teams.
We meet every two months to exchange knowledge on medical issues and updates from professional literature. The aim is to improve the quality of pediatric urological care in Switzerland.
Varia Suisse Psychology
The Psychology Working Group consists of psychologists who work in various fields, such as hospitals, counseling centers, and private practices, with individuals who have variations in sex characteristics. Our goal is to network and meet regularly to exchange knowledge and improve the psychosocial and therapeutic support for people with variations in sex characteristics.
Varia Suisse Festival
Varia Festival is an annual event dedicated to promoting diversity, self-determination, and acceptance. It provides a platform for artists and actively works against discrimination and prejudice.
Who We Are
Varia Suisse is made up of a dedicated group of affected individuals, families, peers, and professionals from medicine, ethics, and psychology. Our diversity makes us strong, and our determination drives us forward.
Board of Directors:
Uchenna Kennedy
Kathrin Ambord
Maike Nelissen
Norma Ruppen
Lena Murpf
Finances:
Alice Hölscher
Would you like to make a positive contribution to improving the quality of life of people with gender variations? Then we cordially invite you to become part of our community and become a Varia member.
Why become a Varia Suisse member?
- Support an important cause: Your membership helps us in our efforts to raise awareness, educate, and spread knowledge about individuals with variations of sex characteristics. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
- Share experiences and knowledge: As a professional, you can benefit from the experiences and expertise of other members while sharing your own insights. We are a diverse and inclusive community that encourages exchange and collaboration.
Get involved in working groups: You have the opportunity to engage in our various working groups. Depending on your interests and skills, you can contribute meaningfully. Take a look at the working groups to see what interests you and where you think your skills would be best utilized. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out to us.
How do I become a member?
To become a member of Varia Suisse, simply click on the ‘Become a member’ button below and send us your membership application.
We look forward to welcoming you to Varia-Suisse.
Support us with a donation
Varia Suisse setzt sich für The organisation supports people with congenital variations of gender variations and works to promote acceptance and understanding in our society. Your donation can help us to continue our work and realise our goals.
How can you donate?
To make a financial contribution, simply click on the ‘Donate’ button below and follow the instructions. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, is invaluable. You decide what fits into your budget.
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your financial support. Your donation will help us to continue our work and reach even more people.