E V E N T
Chosen-mixity session during the BBB at the Camp
We are organizing, for the second time, a climbing session in chosen mixity and for gender minorities.
The gym will therefore be accessible only to FINTA people (= Women, Intersex people, Non-Binary people, Trans people, or Agender people).
For those who are not concerned (= cis men), please respect this space ๐
Le camp de base is predominantly frequented by men (60%), and we want to create a breath of fresh air so that FINTA people can express themselves in their climbing practiceโfree from judgment and oppressive behaviors. This event will also be an opportunity to create dynamics of sisterhood and allow these individuals to fully claim the space for one evening.
Of course, if you wish to share your dissatisfaction or, on the contrary, support the initiative with kind words, your feedback is welcome via DM on social media or by email.
Lastly, we havenโt completed a PhD in feminist terminology, and we hope that those who are more particular about wording will forgive any imprecision in our terms.
L O V E
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The BBB boulders will be accessible, do not hesitate to try this friendly competition format. It is possible to participate for free in this round and to check your boulders on the website to measure yourself against others, or simply to have the follow-up of your achievements.
All the information on the BBB: www.boulderbattle.brussels
For more in-depth explanations โ
Why organize chosen-mixity nights at Camp de Base?
Chosen mixity means gathering among people who are marginalized and discriminated against, in a dedicated space and time.
Although climbing may appear to be a neutral space, open to everyone and particularly diverse, in reality, FINTA individuals (Women, Intersex, Non-Binary, Trans, and Agender people) face specific forms of discrimination: lack of legitimacy, sexism, transphobia, or even an overly competitive male-dominated atmosphere, which can make sports spaces difficult to access, fully embrace, or even feel hostile.
Events in chosen mixity create bubbles of trust and safety, where everyone can train without fear of feeling uncomfortable, judged, or discriminated against. It is a way to rebalance dynamics, encourage sports participation, and allow FINTA individuals to fully thrive in this sport.
Chosen mixity also allows for discussions, reflections, and the proposal of solutions regarding lived experiences, without having to justify oneself or educate others.
But I donโt understand what itโs for?
Maybe this event raises questions for you, or even frustrations about not having access to your gym.
Weโll explain why this setup meets essential needs and contributes to a fairer and more equal society:
A safe space for free expression
Power dynamics and systemic oppression do not disappear just because an event is “open to everyone.” In a world marked by gender discrimination, mixed spaces often unconsciously reproduce inequalities. This is not necessarily intentional or the fault of any one social group, but societal norms are so ingrained in us that we end up replicating them, often without realizing it.
For example, FINTA individuals may struggle to use strength training equipment and instead gravitate toward the yoga roomโnot because access is forbidden, but because in a predominantly male environment, they do not feel legitimate in those spaces.
The goal is not to blame each other, but to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable.
Thus, gathering among people with shared experiences allows them to speak freely, fully engage in an activity, without fear of discrimination, sexualization, or judgment, and without their experiences being minimized or invalidated.
One of the objectives of chosen mixity is to create a temporary “safer space”, where freedom of movement and speech is encouraged.
Reclaiming spaces and practices
Some activitiesโwhether sports, cultural, or activistโhave historically been dominated by cisgender men. Chosen-mixity spaces enable FINTA individuals to feel legitimate in these fields, encourage each other, and build confidence that can later be applied in other contexts.
Creating solidarity and strengthening movements
Discussions and exchanges in these spaces help identify common issues and respond to them collectively. These environments foster solidarity, mutual support, and community-building, creating essential support networks to counter discrimination.
This is not exclusion, but a temporary necessity
Remember that this is just one evening, a punctual event, with a limited number of participantsโwhereas FINTA individuals live daily in a society that discriminates against them.
Creating chosen-mixity spaces is not about reversing discrimination or excluding anyone arbitrarily. It serves specific needs, just as other reserved spaces do (separate locker rooms, support groups for alcoholics, etc.). The aim is not to divide but to empower those concerned, so they can later interact with others under better conditions.
Question your reactions to these spaces
If a chosen-mixity event bothers you, it might be interesting to reflect:
- Why does it make you uncomfortable?
- Why is it difficult for you to accept that a group might need a separate moment?
- What discrimination have you personally faced at Camp de Base? Has it happened elsewhere? How frequently?
If you struggle to understand the importance of these nights, it is likely because you havenโt experienced the same discrimination as FINTA individuals.
If this concept bothers you, take the time to discuss it with (and truly listen to) others who can share how chosen-mixity moments have positively impacted them.
And finally, remember that these spaces are not just about awareness but serve as a temporary yet necessary step toward empowermentโan essential driver of societal transformation. These spaces are part of a journey, a sort of prelude in small groups, allowing individuals to build confidence, feel freer and more legitimate, and, ultimately, help everyone find their place in this sport you love so much.
