Lui Mess is a 28-year-old queer non-binary lesbian working at rubicon e.V., one of Germany’s largest queer counseling centers. In their role, Lui coordinates and manages various organizational processes. Alongside their professional duties, they are pursuing a master’s degree in Gender & Queer Studies at the University of Cologne. Lui’s academic journey is marked by their research project, “Queerschnitt: Current State of Queer (Counseling) Centers in Germany.” This project critically examines the organizational structures, intersectional approaches, and challenges faced by queer counseling centers nationwide. The insights gained from their work at rubicon have been instrumental in advancing this research. In addition to their professional and academic endeavors, Lui has volunteered with the Anti-Discrimination Project for Sexual and Gender Diversity in Schools at SCHLAU Köln e.V. Currently, they are working on their master’s thesis titled “Lesbian & Queer Spaces in Cologne – Where Have They Gone? Documenting and Mapping Spatial Changes.” This thesis explores the shifts in queer spaces within the city of Cologne.
