by Sasha Brandt
In the heart of Buenos Aires, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and political activism, a unique collective is making waves. Camión Kidz, a group of young artists, political activists, and LGBT+ advocates, has emerged as a symbol of resistance and transformation. The collective was founded by Macs Zimmermann and other members who no longer are part of the organization, in 2016. Now it’s all managed by Micaela Mazzei (aka Mvtant Kitty), Diega Fernandez (aka Trashykween), Lisa Jakubavicius and Renata Anelli. They are about 22-23 years old. Their events, where like-minded individuals gather to dance and share ideas, are more than just parties; they are acts of defiance against an unjust political system.
Courtesy Camión Kids.
A European Perspective Meets Argentine Resistance
Beyond our primary focus on European research, we strive to support initiatives globally that unveil diverse mechanisms and instruments in the resistance to individual rights. Camion Kidz stands out as a beacon of such resistance. When I first discovered them, I was transported back to 2009, to an exhibition and research book I curated inspired by the Taller Popular de Serigrafia. The final words of Camion Kidz manifesto, “Kidz somos todes” (Kids are all of us), echoed the revolutionary sentiment of Joseph Beuys’s proclamation, “Die Revolution Sind Wir” (The Revolution is us). This connection between past and present, between European and South American movements, highlights the universal struggle for rights and freedom.
The Youthful Vanguard of Change
What piqued my curiosity even further was discovering that the members of Camion Kidz were barely out of their teenage years—17, 18, and 19-year-olds leading a movement. During my last visit to Buenos Aires, while researching for a new book, I realized that many young people were involved in resistance groups. These groups, left-oriented and driven by a desire for justice, were united in their fight against a corrupt political system. The term “Queer” took on a profound significance, representing not only gender freedom but a broader struggle for national liberation.
One of the most striking symbols of Camion Kidz’s activism is a handwritten sign on their truck, which doubles as a dance floor. It reads, “Nuestra danza es resistencia.” (Our dance is our resistance). This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the essence of their movement. Dance, for them, is not merely an art form but a form of protest, a way to reclaim space and assert their existence in a society that often marginalizes them.
The Language of Resistance
Spanish, with its rich linguistic nuances, has always seemed like a natural language for leftist queer movements. The inclusive adaptation of “todos” to “todes” in their manifesto underscores their commitment to inclusivity. “We feel the pleasure, the fury, the burning desire for change coursing through our veins. We understand the party as a space of struggle: the gesture, the expression, and the affection as resistance against the cis-tema. This space is co-created by all of us, thanks to the effort of each and every one, our shared desires, and the support we give and receive from one another. Let us enjoy ourselves. Kidz are all of Us.”
Their manifesto is not just a call to action but a declaration of identity and purpose. It challenges the static notions of human identity and knowledge, advocating for constant reevaluation and transformation. The collective’s approach to learning is radical, emphasizing personal growth and change. This philosophy resonates deeply with young queer individuals who are navigating their identities in a world that often seeks to constrain them.
The Power of Collective Action
Camion Kidz’s events are a testament to the power of collective action. These gatherings are not just about dancing but about creating a safe space where individuals can express themselves freely. In a society where LGBT+ individuals often face discrimination and violence, such spaces are vital for fostering a sense of community and belonging.
During these events, participants share their stories, experiences, and ideas, forging connections that transcend their immediate context. The sense of solidarity and mutual support is palpable. It is in these moments that the true strength of the movement is revealed—through the unity and resilience of its members.
The Broader Implications
The significance of Camion Kidz’s Queer Dance Revolution work extends beyond Buenos Aires. Their efforts reflect a global trend of youth-led activism that is reshaping the political landscape. From the climate strikes led by Greta Thunberg to the Black Lives Matter protests, young people worldwide are demanding change and challenging the status quo.
“Our struggle is a continuation of the historic efforts of those who paved the way. Trans Black women at Stonewall, Marlene Wayer, Sussy Shock, and many others who propelled the laws of equal marriage and gender identity—historic moments in the history of the LGBT+ revolution. They are our references, and their battles shape how we engage in politics today,” they wrote to me.
Camion Kidz is part of this broader movement, demonstrating that resistance can take many forms. Whether through dance, art, or political activism, their actions inspire others to join the fight for justice and equality. Their work also highlights the importance of intersectionality in social movements. By addressing issues of gender, sexuality, and political oppression, they offer a more comprehensive approach to activism.
Courtesy Camión Kids.
Learning a Radical Act
At the heart of Camion Kidz’s philosophy is the idea of learning as a radical act. They view education not as a means to an end but as a process of continuous transformation. This perspective challenges traditional notions of learning, which often emphasize the acquisition of static knowledge.
For Camion Kidz, learning is about questioning assumptions, exploring new ideas, and constantly evolving. This approach resonates with young people who are seeking to redefine their identities and roles in society. It encourages them to engage critically with the world around them and to actively participate in shaping their futures.
Kidz are all of Us
Camion Kidz exemplifies the power of youth activism and the potential for radical change. Their movement, rooted in the traditions of leftist and queer resistance, offers a compelling vision of a more inclusive and just society. By creating spaces for expression, solidarity, and learning, they empower young people to challenge the status quo and to fight for their rights.
Their work serves as a reminder that resistance is not just about opposing existing structures but about building new ones. It is about imagining alternative futures and working collectively to bring them into being. In this sense, Camion Kidz is not just a collective of activists but a beacon of hope and inspiration for young queer individuals everywhere.
As we witness the rise of youth-led movements across the globe, it is essential to recognize and support the efforts of groups like Camion Kidz. Their work not only addresses immediate injustices but also paves the way for a future where everyone can live freely and authentically. Through their dance, their art, and their activism, they remind us that the revolution is indeed all of us.
Learning means mainly a radical transformation of the self, where the human identity is not a stagnant one and the knowledge is uncertain, but both are the subject of reevaluation and constant change.
If you find yourself in Buenos Aires, seek out one of their events. Join the dance, listen to the stories, and become part of a movement that is as much about joy and celebration as it is about resistance. Kidz are all of Us.
Sasha Brandt is a staff writer for GAY45. They will publish the first novel “Amber memoirs” in 2025.
Cover image: Illustration by GAY45. Photo by Caterina Galanzino with Juan Pablo, Candelaria, Gregorio, Leandro, Ailen, Ian.
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Article with the support of QJRC.
QJRC – The Queer Journalism Research Collective is a group of queer journalists founded by Dr. Răzvan Ion in 1993. Dedicated to unearthing underground movements, groups resisting mainstream constraints, and amplifying marginalised voices. Operating with discretion and protecting identities, they strive to shed light on new movements, distribute non-mainstream zines, and report on their discoveries. Their research bears fruit annually through published volumes, while archived reports will be shared when it is safe for those involved.
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