Escualita

Escualita was a Sunday night weekly soiree at Paris’s La Loco club in the 19^th arrondissement, which caters to the transvestite community. In particular, what makes Escualita unique amongst the many transvestite and transsexual gathering places in Paris is the fact it is the only soiree which provides a meeting point for the Parisian immigrant youth whose ethnic origins and cultures, often of African or Arab descent, as well as their inherited religious beliefs are in sever conflict with their sexuality. Because home is not a place of comfort in dealing with their sexuality, many of the Escualita soiree members travel far from all corners of Paris and the suburbs in order to once a week let free and live out their sexuality in a safe and protected environment. Escualita has therefore become not only a safe haven for these youths but also an important reference point and outlet for personal expression. Above all, it is the strong sense of bonding which has developed amongst these young people that gives Esqualita its very special atmosphere and unique energy and keeps these young men and women coming back for more week after week.