In a world where diversity and inclusion take center stage, Elska Magazine’s latest issue, “Elska Haifa,” shines a spotlight on the vibrant LGBTQ community of Haifa, Israel. This stunning publication is a celebration of the city’s rich tapestry, where a dozen local men from various backgrounds open up about their lives, loves, and experiences through a combination of intimate photography and honest storytelling.
Haifa, Israel’s most diverse big city, serves as the picturesque backdrop for this unique exploration of LGBTQ life. The participants in “Elska Haifa” represent the city’s sizeable Jewish, Arab, and post-Soviet cohorts, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted mosaic that is Haifa’s queer community.
Each of the participants is brought to life through evocative photography, shot against the backdrop of Haifa’s bustling streets or within the comfort of their own homes, authentically dressed in their own unique styles – and sometimes, in their most vulnerable state. The accompanying narratives, written by the participants themselves, are presented in Arabic, Hebrew, or Russian, with English translations where necessary. These narratives touch upon a wide range of themes, from stories of love and loss to the journey of self-acceptance, the pursuit of a better and freer life, and even candid accounts of ‘sexcapades’. It provides an intimate look at what it means to be a queer individual living in this captivating city.
“Elska Haifa” is divided into twelve chapters, each dedicated to a local participant, offering readers a diverse and insightful view of LGBTQ life in Haifa. The names of the participants – George N, Semion K, Mohammad R, Boris L, Uri K, Yehonathan B Y, Guy L, Dia H, Eyal R, Dotan M, Alex P, Amir S – are etched into the narrative, allowing readers to connect on a personal level with these individuals and their stories.
In a world that continues to grapple with issues of identity, acceptance, and diversity, “Elska Haifa” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and photography to bridge gaps and foster understanding. Through its sizzling photographs and unfiltered stories, this issue of Elska Magazine offers a poignant reflection of the LGBTQ experience in Haifa, while simultaneously celebrating the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and identities.