Panel: Rainbow Families

Raising children in a family that doesn't fit the standard picture brings specific questions. Parents who are queer and/or trans, raising their children with more than two parents, or have non-monogamous romantic relationships, have to contend with the sometimes-compelling ideas of the outside world about what a parent should be. How can you best deal with this as a rainbow parent? In what ways do societal and legal challenges affect your family life? And importantly: what is there to celebrate about these family structures? During the symposium 'Many and Different', we will discuss these topics with queer parents and specialized professionals.
Eke Krijnen (moderator) is a Dutch language and literature scholar and writer. In 2024, her book 'A Real Parent' was published, in which she explores heteronormative ideas about family life and parenthood. Eke's essays have appeared in NRC and Volkskrant. She reviews literary fiction and non-fiction for Trouw. For years, she has fought for good multi-parent legislation. She is raising her two children with her partner and a close friend.
Anne Koning is a systemic therapist (relationship and family therapist) and has a practice in Amsterdam, where she mainly sees clients from the LGBTI community. Anne offers support to (prospective) parents of rainbow families in building cooperation and a safe foundation.