Questions❓

The Neuroqueer Meetup is a space for autistic and other neurodivergent people to connect within a queer-friendly environment.

We are Anneliese, Sophie, and Noah – three autistic people between the ages of 32 and 36. Anneliese lives in Zürich, while Sophie and Noah are based in the canton of Bern.

In 2023, Sophie and Noah identified the need for a space where autistic people could connect within the queer community. They partnered with HAZ – Queer Zürich to create the Meetup, and Anneliese joined the team from the very beginning.

No, we don’t. We are not professionals. We’re part of the community and organize the Meetup on a voluntary basis. However, HAZ – Queer Zürich offers psychological support for LGBTQIA+ people in English and German. Regenbogenhaus also provides social counseling for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

About half of our participants are English-speaking, so it’s easier for us to communicate in just one language. However, feel free to email or DM us in German if that’s more comfortable for you.

Yes, we are open to new volunteers and team members! We’re currently working on setting up a system for this and would love to hear from you. If you're interested, feel free to reach out for a chat or speak to us at the next Meetup. We look forward to connecting with you!

No, to ensure that the Meetup remains safe for all participants and manageable for us as organizers, we require participants to sign up in advance. Please respect this rule—it ensures fairness and safety for everyone.

Yes! If the description of the Meetup resonates with you, and you feel you need this space, you are very welcome to join and see if it’s a good fit for you. Just keep in mind that the needs of autistic people may differ from yours, and respect our guidelines to keep the Meetup safe for autistic attendees. Let us know afterward how it was for you – we always love hearing how other neurodivergent people experience the Meetup and our community.

Yes, absolutely! You are welcome to attend even if you don’t have an official autism diagnosis or are still questioning your queer identity. This Meetup is open to anyone who feels it might be the right space for them. That said, we strongly encourage seeking a professional autism diagnosis if you suspect you might be autistic, as it can provide valuable clarity and access to support.

Yes, but you must bring a parent or legal guardian with you. Both of you need to sign up separately and mention this in the sign-up form. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to email us!

Yes, you’re welcome to bring a support person if it makes you feel more comfortable. Both you and your support person need to sign up separately, and it’s helpful to mention this in the sign-up form. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email us.

Yes, Regenbogenhaus is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible restroom. Ring the bell at Zollstrasse 117 to take the elevator to the first floor. Look up the 'How to Find Us' description by clicking the button below and heading to the corresponding chapter. Please also mention your needs in the sign-up form so we can ensure the space is set up accordingly.

The Meetup is usually held at Regenbogenhaus, Zollstrasse 117, 8005 Zürich, every first Sunday of the month from 14:30 to 16:30. Any changes to the schedule or location will be announced in advance via email and Instagram.

There are usually 15 to 20 participants. We believe most are between 20 and 40 years old, although we don’t know their exact ages.

Make yourself at home! Hang up your jacket, write your name tag, browse the library, enjoy snacks, or make a cup of tea. A copy of the guidelines will be on the welcome table, and we’ll start with the introduction round at 14:30.

No, you’re welcome to leave whenever you need to. We understand that everyone has different energy levels, and your well-being comes first.

At the moment, we usually meet at Regenbogenhaus. However, during the summer, we also had a Meetup in the park, which the participants really enjoyed. We are likely to organize similar outings in the future. If you have any ideas or suggestions for activities, feel free to share them with us!

Unfortunately, Regenbogenhaus doesn’t allow animals inside the venue. You may leave them directly outside the glass door on the terrace.

No, you don’t have to take part if you don’t want to. You’re also welcome to skip any questions or simply listen to the others.

It’s completely okay to feel this way – many others probably feel the same. Here are a few tips to make connecting a bit easier: Be yourself – authenticity is always welcome here. Listen during the introduction round for shared interests, and use them as conversation starters. Start small – try a simple “Hi” or compliment someone on something they’re doing or wearing. Use our conversation starter cards – they’re there to help spark conversations. Join the guided activity – it provides structure and is a great way to naturally connect with others. Give it time – if it doesn’t click right away, don’t give up. Come again, and over time, it will likely get easier as you gain confidence and familiarity.

It’s okay to feel this way, especially in a new environment and if you had bad experiences in the past like many autistic and neurodivergent people did. Give yourself time to get to know the group. Sometimes, the best connections come from the most unexpected people or moments. Take it at your own pace, and be patient with yourself. If you’re unsure, feel free to talk to one of the organizers – we’re here to support you!

You can leave the Meetup at any time if it feels right for you – there’s no need to explain or say goodbye. If you just need a break: You can go to the House of Books, a quiet space at the back of the room. You can also ask a member of the Neuroqueer Team to help you access the House of Love (office) for privacy. Alternatively, you can step outside. If you feel unsafe, please talk to someone from the Neuroqueer Team. You can also message us afterward or leave anonymous feedback.

Yes, absolutely! We welcome everyone, including those who prefer to observe or who might need a bit more time to feel comfortable and open up. You don’t have to actively participate if you're not ready – take your time and join at your own pace.

We ask that you don’t take pictures of others unless you have their explicit consent. If you want to take photos of the space or your own creations, that’s perfectly fine.

No, it’s not. However, we consider ourselves to be a very TINFA*/FLINTA*-friendly space, and we estimate that at least around three-quarters of the participants identify as TINFA*/FLINTA*.

Not at the moment. If this is something you’d like, please let us know and share the topics you’re interested in. Send us a message or use the anonymous feedback form.

We don’t have any concrete plans at the moment, but we think it’s a great idea. Write to us or talk to us at a Meetup if you’d like to discuss it. It’s always helpful for us to hear about the community’s needs.

No, there isn’t. We keep you up to date via Instagram and email. If you feel there’s a need for such a group chat or channel hosted by us, let us know! In the meantime you’re welcome to connect with others individually if you feel comfortable.

Yes, we are always open to collaboration! If your group or organization is interested in working together, we’d be happy to connect and exchange ideas. Feel free to reach out to us for any collaboration opportunities or discussions. We believe in the power of mutual support and building stronger networks together.